The Peugeot 208 is one of the most stylish small cars in the UK and has sold strongly since its 2012 launch. The second-generation model is especially popular. However the 1.2 PureTech petrol engine — fitted to a huge number of 208s — has a well-documented and serious timing chain issue that all owners should be aware of.
Quick Facts — Peugeot 208
Years
2012–present (A9, B9/e-208)
Common Engines
1.0, 1.2 PureTech petrol; 1.5/1.6 BlueHDi diesel; e-208 electric
6 Most Common Peugeot 208 Problems
These are the faults most frequently seen on the Peugeot 208 by UK garages — ranked by how commonly they occur and how serious they are.
This is the single most important fault to know about on any 208 with the 1.2 PureTech engine. The timing chain can stretch and fail prematurely — a rattling noise on cold start is the warning. Peugeot extended the warranty on this fault but it affects thousands of cars. Catastrophic engine failure is the consequence of ignoring it.
💷 Typical repair cost: £1,200–£3,000
Related to the timing chain issue — the 1.2 PureTech engine can consume oil faster than expected. Check the dipstick regularly and top up as needed. Low oil accelerates timing chain wear.
💷 Typical repair cost: £0 (preventive — just top up oil)
The 1.5 BlueHDi diesel commonly suffers EGR valve faults — rough idle, loss of power and EML activation are the typical symptoms. An early common problem on the Mk2 208 diesel.
💷 Typical repair cost: £150–£380
The EAT8 automatic gearbox fitted to some 208 models can judder at low speeds — particularly evident when pulling away. Software updates have been issued but hardware faults do occur.
💷 Typical repair cost: £300–£1,500
Electric window regulators — particularly on the driver's side — are a common failure on Mk1 208 models. The window drops or won't operate smoothly.
💷 Typical repair cost: £80–£200
Older 208 diesels with the 1.6 HDi engine commonly suffer DPF blockages in urban use. Warning light, limp mode and reduced performance are the symptoms.
💷 Typical repair cost: £150–£1,000
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MOT Tips for the Peugeot 208
If your 208 has the 1.2 PureTech engine, listen carefully for any cold-start rattle before your MOT — timing chain noise plus a warning light will cause a fail and potentially much larger repair costs. Check EML status on any diesel model.
Engine management light on before your MOT? It's an automatic fail. Run a
MotorLoom diagnostic for £1.99 to get the likely cause and repair cost before booking the test.
Tyres for the Peugeot 208
Common 208 tyre sizes are 185/65 R15 and 205/45 R16. Standard small car sizing — plenty of choice at competitive prices.
Summary
The Peugeot 208 is a solid choice overall but being aware of its known weak points means you can spot early warning signs and budget for upcoming repairs. If your Peugeot 208 has a warning light on or a symptom you're unsure about, a MotorLoom diagnostic report for £1.99 gives you likely fault causes, UK repair cost estimates and MOT risk for your exact vehicle instantly.
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