Peugeot 208 Common Faults & Problems (UK Buyer's Guide)
Mk1 (2012–2019) & Mk2 (2019–) inc. e-208 · Supermini
This is an independent guide to the Peugeot 208, written for used car buyers rather than sellers. The faults below come from owner reports, UK garage patterns and MOT history for this generation — not manufacturer marketing, and we take no commission from any dealer. Use it to spot the expensive problems before you hand over money.
Stylish and cheap to buy — check the 1.2 PureTech carefully.
Common Faults
Each fault below is drawn from real owner reports and UK garage patterns for this generation — not generic used-car advice.
1.2 PureTech wet timing belt
criticalThe 1.2 PureTech uses a wet belt that sheds into the sump — same design principle as Ford's EcoBoost, similar consequences. Stellantis has extended warranties on some.
Check for: Ask if the belt has been changed (should be by 6 years / 60–75k miles). Check oil quality.
Typical cost: £700–£1,100 belt; £3,000+ if engine damaged
AdBlue system (BlueHDi diesel)
moderateAdBlue sensor and injector faults cause 'no start in X miles' warnings.
Check for: Any AdBlue warning message.
Typical cost: £400–£900
What to Check Before Buying
Take this list to the viewing. Every point comes straight from the faults above.
- 1.2 PureTech wet timing belt: Ask if the belt has been changed (should be by 6 years / 60–75k miles). Check oil quality.
- AdBlue system (BlueHDi diesel): Any AdBlue warning message.
MOT history red flags
If any of these appear on the last two MOTs, negotiate hard or walk away.
- Any advisory relating to 'oil leak'
- Emissions failure on BlueHDi
Sharp questions to ask the seller
- PureTech: wet belt replaced?
- AdBlue system working with no warnings?
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