Peugeot Common Problems & Known Faults

How reliable are Peugeot cars?

Our database covers 31 Peugeot models and 198 documented faults across the range. Of these, 38 are classified as dangerous and a further 94 as major. Dangerous faults are those that can compromise vehicle safety or lead to complete mechanical failure if left unaddressed.

According to DVSA MOT test data, Peugeot models fail at an average rate of 25.0%, which is above the 22.7% average across all manufacturers in our database. Reliability varies considerably between models. The 108 is the strongest performer at just 13.8%, while the 405 has the highest failure rate at 34.5%.

If you are considering a used Peugeot, researching the specific model and generation you are looking at makes a real difference. The most common failure areas across the range are engine and brakes, though each model has its own particular weak points. This page gives you a complete breakdown by severity, the models affected, and what repairs typically cost at UK garages.

Peugeot reliability summary

Where Peugeot problems occur

Understanding which systems are most prone to failure helps you focus during a test drive or pre-purchase inspection. Here is how Peugeot's 198 known issues break down by area.

Engine problems dominate, accounting for 40 of the 198 faults we track (20%). Issues in this area include Emissions system deterioration exceeding limits and Emissions system deterioration. The most affected models are the 308 (8), the 208 (7), the 206 (3).

Brakes is the next most common area, with 33 documented faults (17%). Common faults here include Brake hose ferrule corrosion and Brake system efficiency deterioration. The most affected models are the 206 (2), the 306 (2), the 5008 (2).

We also track 29 exhaust faults across the range (15%). Problems to watch for include Exhaust system corrosion and mounting failure and DPF blockage and regeneration failure (A94). The most affected models are the 207 (2), the 508 (2), the 2008 (2).

Suspension rounds out the top problem areas with 28 known issues (14%). Notable issues include Suspension bush and joint wear and Wheel bearing wear. The most affected models are the 4007 (3), the 107 (2), the 406 (2).

Known Peugeot faults by severity

Every fault in our database is rated by severity based on its potential safety impact and typical repair cost. Below is a sample of issues at each level, with links to the affected model pages where you can read the full details.

Top issues across the Peugeot range

The most common and severe problems found across all Peugeot models, ranked by severity and how many models are affected.

Problems by Peugeot model

We track faults across 31 Peugeot models. Each model page includes every known issue, generation-specific details, UK repair costs, and MOT failure data. Select a model below to see its full breakdown.

What to check before buying a used Peugeot

Every used Peugeot deserves a thorough inspection, but knowing the common weak points for your target model gives you a serious advantage. Since engine faults are the most common across the range, pay particular attention to this area during any viewing or test drive.

The 38 dangerous-rated faults deserve special attention. These include Subframe mounting area corrosion, Brake hose ferrule corrosion, Structural corrosion compromising vehicle rigidity. Any of these can compromise safety or result in repair bills running well into the thousands.

A complete dealer service history is one of the strongest indicators of how well a Peugeot has been looked after. Many of the faults on this page are preventable or can be caught early through regular servicing. If the seller cannot produce service records, treat that as a significant red flag.

Check the MOT history carefully too. With a 25.0% average failure rate across the Peugeot range, some advisories and minor failures are normal over the life of any car. What matters is the pattern: recurring failures in the same area suggest an underlying problem, while a history of clean passes is encouraging.

Peugeot repair costs: what to expect

Across all documented faults, the average Peugeot repair costs between £294 and £657 at an independent garage. At the top end, the most expensive single repair can reach £3,000 or more. Main dealer rates are typically 30% to 50% higher across the board.

The single most expensive Peugeot repair in our database is Structural member fracture (T75), which can cost £3,000–£8,000 at a main dealer.

These figures are based on reported UK repair costs and serve as a guide. Actual prices will vary depending on your location, the garage, and the parts required. Getting quotes from two or three specialists before committing to any major work is always worthwhile.