Car problems with Peugeot: common faults and solutions

Peugeot models have a mixed reputation when it comes to reliability. The French carmaker delivers stylish and comfortable cars, but certain engines, electronics and diesel systems regularly cause headaches. If you know where the weak points are and how to spot them, you can avoid expensive surprises and enjoy your car for longer.

Peugeot and reliability: what to expect?

Peugeot is known for cars with a French character: distinctive design, pleasant comfort and often affordable to buy. At the same time, owners regularly report complaints about engines, electronics and diesel systems. In particular, models with the 1.2-litre PureTech petrol engines and diesel versions with AdBlue (a fluid that converts nitrogen oxides in the exhaust into nitrogen and water) suffer from recurring problems.

The experience of Peugeot drivers is mixed. Some cars run hundreds of thousands of kilometres without any significant breakdowns, while other examples show problems early on. That makes it all the more important to know model-specific weaknesses. Anyone buying or driving a Peugeot would be wise to carry out targeted checks and preventive maintenance. Fortunately, parts are widely available and there are plenty of specialists who know Peugeot well.

‘ Avoid diesel versions if you mainly do city miles. ’

General Peugeot problems: engines, electronics and running gear

Certain problems crop up in virtually all Peugeot models. Below is an overview of the most common issues that are not tied to one specific model.

Engines and drivetrain: PureTech and diesel need attention

The modern 1.2-litre PureTech petrol engines are a common source of problems. These three-cylinder units use a wet timing belt that runs through the engine oil. That belt wears prematurely, causing fragments to come loose and block oil channels. The result is increased oil consumption and, in the worst case, engine damage. Replace the belt at 40,000 kilometres or earlier, and check the oil level weekly.

Diesel engines suffer from clogged particulate filters, especially if they are rarely driven on the motorway. The diesel particulate filter (DPF), which filters soot particles from the exhaust gases, needs time and temperature to burn off. Drivers who mainly do short trips should expect manual regeneration or even replacement of the filter. AdBlue pumps and injectors often fail, leading to warning lights and sometimes engine noise. Avoid diesel versions if you mainly do city miles.

In addition, carbon deposits build up in the inlet ports, gaskets start to leak over time and EGR valves (exhaust gas recirculation, which returns exhaust gases to the engine to reduce emissions) cause problems after 150,000 kilometres. The fuel system is prone to faults, especially in diesels. Always use quality oil and fill up at reputable fuel stations to limit problems.

Electronics and electrical faults: sensors and software

Electrical faults are widespread in Peugeots. Dashboard warning lights come on without an obvious cause, often due to loose connections or defective sensors. The engine management light appears regularly even when there is no serious engine damage. Infotainment systems and dashboard displays show glitches, especially in older model years.

Emission-system sensors often fail on diesel models. This led to major recalls, with more than 18,000 vehicles recalled in 2019 and 2020 due to nitrogen oxide emission issues (NOx are harmful combustion gases that contribute to air pollution). The air conditioning can also fail, which in some cases temporarily makes the car undriveable. Always check with the dealer whether there are any outstanding recalls.

Batteries age faster than expected and relays in the BSM unit (the central control unit that controls, among other things, lighting, windscreen wipers and central locking) fail, often before 200,000 kilometres. Wiring to ABS and ESP sensors (systems that prevent the wheels from locking and maintain stability) wears due to vibrations and moisture. During a test drive, check all systems: central locking, mirror adjustment, lighting functions and the infotainment system. Have software updates carried out at the dealer to fix glitches.

Gearbox, brakes and running gear: wear and maintenance

Automatic gearboxes can shudder or hesitate during gearchanges. That often points to oil leaks or worn clutches. Have the gearbox checked during servicing and ensure oil changes are done on time.

Brakes on Peugeots wear faster than on many rivals, especially on motorway miles. Rear brake calipers with integrated handbrake can seize if the handbrake is rarely used. Use the handbrake regularly, even if you have an automatic. Replace caliper pins and rubbers preventively to avoid problems.

The running gear lasts around 150,000 kilometres under normal use, but shock absorbers, bearings and CV joints wear faster under heavy use or on poor road surfaces. CV joints are difficult to replace separately; often the entire driveshaft has to be changed. During inspection or a test drive, check for play in the bearings, whether the shock absorbers are leaking and whether there are any tears in the CV joint boots.

Car problems Peugeot 206: popular but fragile

For years the 206 was one of the best-selling small cars in Europe. Many examples are still on the road, but age is starting to show. Typical problems include defective injection systems, recurring electrical faults and rust spots. The dashboard can fail and the central locking sometimes behaves erratically.

The suspension needs attention. Control arms and shock absorbers wear, and rust attacks the wheel arches and underside. Check the sills, wheel arch trims and wheel arches thoroughly before buying a 206. The interior also wears heavily: seats sag, buttons break and plastics fade.

Petrol engines are generally more reliable than diesels. When considering a used 206, always check the service history and have a specialist inspect the engine, suspension and electronics. With preventive maintenance and attention to rust, you can enjoy this compact French car for many more years.

Car problems Peugeot 207: electronics and engine

The 207 succeeded the 206 and introduced modern electronics, which unfortunately also brought new problems. ABS and ESP sensors regularly fail, leading to warning lights on the dashboard. The fix is often simple, but diagnosis takes time and costs money.

The petrol engines, especially the smaller ones, are vulnerable. Timing chains can show early wear and the timing belt needs timely replacement. If in doubt, have a compression test carried out to assess the state of the engine. The interior and lighting suffer from electrical teething problems: windscreen wipers run slowly, windows get stuck halfway and rear lights fail due to moisture issues.

Maintenance is important on the 207. Check oil level and coolant regularly, and change fluids on time. When buying, look for a complete service history and test all electronic systems during the test drive.

Car problems Peugeot 208: PureTech engine in the spotlight

The 208 is a popular small car with modern design and comfortable driving characteristics. The big sore point lies in the PureTech petrol engines. The wet timing belt wears prematurely, with all the consequences: oil consumption, engine damage and expensive repairs. Check the oil level weekly and replace the belt preventively at 40,000 kilometres.

Piston rings also cause problems. They can break, causing the engine to rattle or even seize. Electronic glitches occur as well, such as faults in the infotainment system and unexpected warning lights. Dealers can perform software updates that solve some of these issues.

Anyone buying a 208 should choose an example with a full service history and proof of belt replacement. Consider a diesel version if you do many long journeys, but be alert to diesel particulate filter and AdBlue issues. For city use, a well-maintained petrol version is the safest choice, provided you keep a close eye on the timing belt.

Car problems Peugeot 306: old classic with charm

The 306 is now a youngtimer with a loyal group of enthusiasts. The car is known for its pleasant handling, but age takes its toll. Rust is a major problem: check the wheel arches, sills, tailgate and underside thoroughly. The suspension wears out and is cheap to replace, but moisture problems and electrical faults are more difficult to solve.

With proper maintenance, the engines last a long time, but cooling systems can leak and gaskets become brittle. Diesel versions are economical and reliable, provided they are well maintained. Watch for smoke on start-up and check whether the engine runs smoothly.

For enthusiasts who want a 306 as a youngtimer, a thorough pre-purchase inspection is essential. Look for examples with service history and avoid cars with visible rust spots or tinkered-with electronics. With care and attention, the 306 remains a rewarding driver’s car.

Car problems Peugeot 307: BSI issues and diesel

The 307, as the successor to the 306, brought more space and comfort, but also more electronics and with that more faults. The best-known problem is the BSI unit (the central control unit that manages lighting systems, windscreen wipers, central locking and other electrical functions). Malfunctions in the BSI can lead to failure of lighting, central locking, windscreen wipers and more. Sometimes replacing relays helps, in other cases the entire unit needs to be replaced.

Diesel versions suffer from clogged particulate filters and defective EGR valves. Regeneration of the diesel particulate filter does not always succeed, especially with lots of short city journeys. AdBlue issues are less common on older 307 models, but injectors and glow plugs do need regular replacement.

Running gear and suspension wear at higher mileages. Control arms, bushes and shock absorbers are weak points. During purchase or a test drive, check whether the running gear feels tight and whether there is any play in the suspension. Have a pre-purchase inspection carried out that checks the BSI unit, diesel systems and suspension thoroughly.

Car problems Peugeot 308: two generations with weaknesses

The 308 has been produced in two generations, each with its own problems. The first generation (2007–2013) suffers from electronic issues, diesel problems and wear to the running gear. The second generation (2013–present) is affected by the well-known PureTech engine problems and AdBlue faults in diesels.

Petrol engines with PureTech technology need extra attention to the wet timing belt and oil consumption. Diesel versions show problems with the particulate filter, AdBlue system and EGR valve. Choose petrol for city use and diesel only if you cover many motorway miles. For diesels, check that regeneration of the diesel particulate filter is working properly during a long test drive.

Electronic faults mainly affect the multimedia system, cameras and parking sensors. Software updates often help, but some problems keep coming back. When buying, pay attention to the model years and preferably choose examples from 2015 onwards with improved software. Check the service history for belt replacement and diesel particulate filter regenerations.

Car problems Peugeot 3008: popular SUV with weak spots

The 3008 is one of Peugeot’s most popular models. The modern generation (from 2016) looks sharp and offers plenty of space, but the familiar engine problems also crop up here. The 1.2-litre PureTech engine suffers from the wet timing belt. Fragments of the belt can block oil channels, leading to oil consumption and engine damage. Replace the belt proactively and check the oil level weekly.

Diesel versions suffer from diesel particulate filter problems and defective AdBlue pumps. Symptoms include warning lights, engine noise and loss of power. AdBlue repairs are expensive, so check before buying that the system is working properly. Software and electronic issues are common: infotainment slows down, cameras cut out and sensors give false warnings.

A separate problem concerns cooling in wintry conditions. Snow can block the cooling system, causing overheating. Check the cooling system before winter and clean the radiator fins regularly. For 3008 drivers, an extensive test drive is essential: test all electronics, drive a long route to check diesel particulate filter regeneration and listen for unusual engine noises.

Car problems Peugeot 2008: sensors and diesel

The 2008 is Peugeot’s compact SUV, popular with families and city drivers. Petrol versions show fewer issues than diesels, but faults do occur here too. Sensors and warning systems regularly fail, leading to annoying dashboard lights. This mainly affects parking sensors, tyre pressure sensors and emission sensors on diesels.

Diesel versions suffer from nitrogen oxide emission problems, clogged AdBlue injectors and particulate filters that do not regenerate properly. Peugeot recalled large numbers of 2008 diesels for software updates and repairs. When buying a used 2008, check that all recalls have been carried out. The air conditioning can fail, which in some cases also led to a recall.

Prefer a petrol version if you mainly do short trips. Diesels suit drivers who do many long journeys and give the diesel particulate filter enough time to regenerate. During the test drive, check all sensors, the infotainment system and the air conditioning. Look in the service history for AdBlue- and diesel particulate filter-related repairs.

Car problems Peugeot 5008: family SUV under strain

The 5008 is the larger brother of the 3008 and offers space for seven people. That higher weight and extra load lead to faster wear on the running gear and brakes. Engine and AdBlue issues also appear on the 5008, with the same symptoms as in other models: wet timing belt on PureTech petrol engines and diesel particulate filter problems on diesels.

Electronic faults mainly affect high-spec versions with many driver assistance systems, cameras and sensors. Software updates often help, but not always permanently. Brakes wear faster due to the higher weight, especially when driving fully loaded or with a trailer. Check brake discs and pads regularly and replace them in good time.

Drivers using the 5008 as a family car with caravan or fully loaded should expect more frequent servicing. Before long journeys, check the brakes, tyres, shock absorbers and cooling system. Choose diesel only if you do many long trips; otherwise, despite higher fuel consumption, petrol is the more reliable option. When buying, have a specialist thoroughly check the engine, gearbox and running gear.

Car problems Peugeot 406: ageing saloon with wear

The 406 is a spacious saloon or estate car from the 1990s and early 2000s. Many examples have high mileages and show the corresponding wear. With proper maintenance, engines and gearboxes last a long time, but expect leaks, worn bearings and clutch wear.

Rust is a concern, especially on examples that have driven in salty environments. Check wheel arches, sills, the lower edges of doors and the rear. The electronics are relatively simple and cause fewer problems than on more modern models, but sensors and relays can fail.

Diesel versions are economical and suitable for many miles, provided they are well maintained. Watch for smoke at start-up and listen for unusual engine noises. For enthusiasts looking for an affordable youngtimer or budget car, the 406 is a solid choice. Look for examples with service history and avoid cars with visible rust or engine issues.

Car problems Peugeot 407: luxury saloon with electronics

The 407 succeeded the 406 and brought more luxury and electronics. That also means more potential faults. The suspension is prone to wear: control arms, bushes and shock absorbers wear faster than on rivals. ESP and airbag lights appear regularly on the dashboard, often due to sensor faults or software issues.

Diesel versions suffer from the usual particulate filter and EGR problems. On-board computers and multimedia systems show glitches, and the air conditioning can fail. The 407 needs careful attention during test drives: assess the suspension for play and harsh knocks, check that all warning lights go out after starting and listen for diesel clatter or engine irregularities.

During a pre-purchase inspection, the specialist should focus on suspension, electronics, diesel systems and the state of the gearbox. Choose examples with a full service history and avoid cars with active warning lights or unexplained electrical faults.

Car problems Peugeot 508: executive but maintenance-sensitive

The 508 is Peugeot’s executive saloon and estate, produced in two generations. The first generation (2010–2018) suffers from diesel issues, electronic problems and wear to the running gear. The second generation (from 2018) looks modern but is affected by the familiar PureTech engine problems and complex electronics.

Driver assistance systems, infotainment and sensors frequently throw up faults. Software updates are available but do not solve all problems permanently. Diesel versions show problems with the particulate filter and AdBlue, especially when used as short-lease cars with many short journeys. The running gear wears faster under intensive motorway use, which fits its role as a business long-distance car.

Anyone considering a 508 as a comfortable long-distance car must reckon with higher maintenance costs than with Japanese or German rivals. Choose diesel only if you do a lot of long trips and check before purchase that all software updates and recalls have been carried out. Thoroughly test driver assistance systems, adaptive cruise control and parking sensors during the test drive.

Car problems Peugeot RCZ: sporty but vulnerable

The RCZ is Peugeot’s sporty coupé, popular with fans of French design. The powerful petrol units, especially the 1.6-litre turbos, are vulnerable. Timing chains can wear and turbos fail under heavy use. Pistons and connecting rods are also sensitive to high loads.

Sporty driving leads to faster wear on suspension, wheels and brakes. Check the wheels for kerb damage and have the suspension checked for play and leaking shock absorbers. Electronic faults also occur on the RCZ, albeit less frequently than on family models.

Anyone buying an RCZ should expect higher maintenance costs than on regular Peugeots. Look for examples with a full service history, proof of engine and turbo maintenance and preferably already replaced timing chains or belts. Have a specialist thoroughly inspect the engine, turbo and running gear before purchase.

Car problems Peugeot Partner: van under heavy load

The Partner is Peugeot’s compact van, also sold as a family car with windows and seats. Heavy loads lead to faster wear on the running gear, brakes and gearbox. Diesel versions suffer from particulate filter, EGR and AdBlue problems, made worse by intensive use with lots of starts and stops.

Sliding doors and locks regularly cause problems. Mechanisms wear, locks seize and sensors fail. The interior wears quickly with intensive use: seats sag, plastic breaks and dashboards creak. When buying, check the condition of the interior and test the sliding doors several times.

For business users and families considering a Partner, regular maintenance is essential. Have brakes, running gear and diesel systems checked more often than on passenger cars. Choose petrol if you mainly do short, city-based trips, and diesel only if you cover many long journeys.

Car problems Peugeot Expert: hard-worked van

The Expert is Peugeot’s medium-sized van, intended for intensive business use. Diesel engines are heavily loaded and show problems with particulate filters, AdBlue systems and injectors. Symptoms include loss of power, black smoke and warning lights. Repairs are expensive and often mean downtime, which is costly for business owners.

Gearboxes wear under heavy use and high loads. Clutches wear faster and gearchanges become harsh. The electronics for the load area and comfort features can fail: sensors for load area lighting, reversing cameras and parking assistance drop out.

Anyone looking for a used Expert should check it thoroughly. Have the engine, gearbox and diesel systems inspected by a specialist familiar with vans. Check the service history for preventive maintenance and avoid examples with high mileage and no complete history. Plan maintenance and inspections proactively to prevent downtime and expensive repairs.

Practical tips for Peugeot drivers and potential buyers

Anyone buying or driving a Peugeot can prevent many problems with targeted attention. Below you’ll find practical tips that apply to all models.

Choosing petrol or diesel

Choose petrol for city use and short journeys. That largely avoids diesel particulate filter problems and AdBlue faults. Diesel suits drivers who do many long motorway journeys, but expect higher maintenance on emission-cleaning and the AdBlue system. If in doubt, petrol is the safer choice, despite slightly higher fuel consumption.

Oil level and timing belt on PureTech

On PureTech petrol engines, check the oil level weekly. Increased consumption is a sign that the wet timing belt is wearing. Replace the belt preventively at 40,000 kilometres, even if the manufacturer specifies longer intervals. That small investment prevents engine damage costing thousands of euros.

Spotting electronic problems during a test drive

During a test drive, check all electronic systems. Try the central locking, mirror adjustment, lighting, infotainment, air conditioning and all sensors. Take a long test drive to see whether warning lights appear and whether diesel particulate filter regeneration works properly on diesels. Listen out for unusual noises, jerky gear changes and uneven running.

Pre-purchase inspection and checking recalls

Before buying, have a specialist carry out a thorough inspection. Check the engine, gearbox, running gear, brakes and electronics. Ask the dealer whether there are any outstanding recalls and whether all software updates have been installed. Request the full service history and proof of belt replacement and diesel particulate filter regenerations.

Planning your own preventive maintenance

Draw up a fixed maintenance schedule and stick to it, even beyond the prescribed dealer services. Every month, check fluid levels (oil, coolant, screenwash), tyre pressure and exterior lighting. Note the mileage at each check and record minor repairs. Use only quality oil and genuine filters to limit wear and contamination.

At Carnews you’ll find extensive information on specific models, maintenance tips and comparisons with rivals. By informing yourself properly before buying and staying alert in daily use, you can get the best out of your Peugeot. Discover which models and versions best suit your situation and make a well-considered choice that will give you years of driving pleasure.