Quick Facts — Peugeot 308

Est. On UK Roads
250,000+
Years Made
2007–present
Common Engines
1.2 PureTech, 1.4 VTi, 1.6 THP, 2.0 THP, 1.6 HDi, 2.0 HDi, Hybrid

6 Most Common Peugeot 308 Problems

These are the faults most frequently seen on the Peugeot 308 by UK garages — ranked by how commonly they occur and what they cost to fix.

1
Timing Chain (1.2 PureTech)
High Priority
The 1.2 PureTech in the MK2 308 shares the same timing chain tensioner weakness as across the PSA Group range. A cold-start rattle must be investigated immediately.
💷 Typical repair cost: £600–£1,800
2
DPF Blockage (HDi Diesel)
High Priority
The 1.6 and 2.0 HDi diesel 308s develop DPF blockages frequently — especially on short journeys. One of the most common faults seen on this model in UK garages.
💷 Typical repair cost: £100–£1,200
3
EAT8 Gearbox Issues (MK3)
Watch
The MK3 308's 8-speed EAT automatic can develop hesitation and judder. Software updates from Peugeot help in many cases.
💷 Typical repair cost: £0–£2,000
4
Water Pump Failure (1.6 THP)
Watch
The 1.6 THP turbocharged petrol engine has a known water pump weakness. Overheating without warning is the symptom. The pump is driven off the timing belt — replacement is recommended as part of the belt service.
💷 Typical repair cost: £400–£800
5
Turbo Failure (1.6 THP)
Watch
The 1.6 THP turbo can fail on higher-mileage examples — oil starvation is often the cause. Loss of power and blue/white smoke are the symptoms.
💷 Typical repair cost: £500–£1,500
6
i-Cockpit Display Issues
Low Priority
The MK2 and MK3 digital instrument cluster can develop pixel failures or go blank on some examples.
💷 Typical repair cost: £200–£600

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Peugeot 308 — MOT Tips

PureTech timing chain rattle is the priority check. DPF warning light is an automatic fail on diesel models. Check the 1.6 THP coolant temperature carefully — water pump failure causes sudden overheating.

Engine management light on before your MOT? It's an automatic fail. Run a Find Your Problem Now → to get the likely cause and repair cost before booking the test.

Peugeot 308 Tyres

Most Peugeot 308 models run 205/55 R16 or 225/45 R17 or 235/40 R18 depending on trim level and year. Always check the placard inside the driver's door for the exact size for your vehicle.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most common problem with the Peugeot 308?

The most frequently reported issue on the Peugeot 308 is Timing Chain (1.2 PureTech). The 1.2 PureTech in the MK2 308 shares the same timing chain tensioner weakness as across the PSA Group range. A cold-start rattle must be investigated immediately.

How many Peugeot 308s are on UK roads?

There are an estimated 250,000+ Peugeot 308s currently on UK roads.

What tyres does the Peugeot 308 use?

Most Peugeot 308 models run 205/55 R16 or 225/45 R17 or 235/40 R18 depending on trim level and year. Always check the placard inside the driver's door for the exact size for your vehicle.

Will a warning light fail my Peugeot 308's MOT?

PureTech timing chain rattle is the priority check. DPF warning light is an automatic fail on diesel models. Check the 1.6 THP coolant temperature carefully — water pump failure causes sudden overheating.

Similar Issues on Other Models

Citroën C4 — shares the same DPF blockage problem SEAT Leon — DPF blockage shows up here too

Summary

The 308 is a well-designed family hatchback with a strong reputation in recent years. The 1.2 PureTech timing chain issue is critical to check. The 1.6 THP water pump failure is an important known fault on petrol turbo models.

If your Peugeot 308 has a warning light on or a symptom you can't identify, a Find Your Problem Now → gives you likely fault causes, UK repair cost estimates and MOT risk — instantly.

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Other Peugeot Models

Peugeot 208 → Peugeot 2008 → Peugeot 3008 → Peugeot 5008 →