Generations
A94 — First Generation
2013–2023
1.2 PureTech, 1.2 PureTech, 1.4 HDi, 1.5 BlueHDi, 1.6 HDi, 1.6 VTi
Top issues to watch for
The most serious Peugeot 2008 problems ranked by severity. We track 6 known issues — here are the ones you need to know about first.
Dangerous
Timing belt issues (A94)
The 1.2 PureTech EB2 engine uses a wet timing belt that runs immersed in engine oil rather than a conventional dry belt or chain. This belt drives the camshafts and oil pump and is critical to engine operation. The wet belt system is prone to premature failure, with belts deteriorating from 40,000 miles onwards due to oil contamination and heat cycles. When the belt fails, it causes immediate and catastrophic engine damage as the interference design means pistons strike valves. This is a well-documented design flaw affecting thousands of UK vehicles, with failure rates significantly higher than conventional timing systems.
What happens if ignoredWet belt failure causes immediate and complete engine destruction due to piston-to-valve contact in this interference engine design. A replacement engine typically costs £4,000-£8,000 fitted. Many insurance companies consider this a design defect and may not cover claims. The vehicle becomes a total loss in most cases, as repair costs exceed the car's value.
Independent garage
£400–£600
Specialist
£500–£800
Main dealer
£600–£1,000
Parts only
£150–£300
Major
DPF blockage and regeneration failure (A94)
The diesel particulate filter (DPF) on 1.6 HDi and 1.5 BlueHDi engines blocks at rates far exceeding the national average, particularly on vehicles used for short urban journeys. The regeneration system struggles with stop-start driving patterns common in urban areas, leading to incomplete burns and progressive filter clogging. This affects both the earlier DV6 1.6 HDi and newer DV5 1.5 BlueHDi engines, though symptoms and failure patterns vary between the two.
What happens if ignoredComplete DPF blockage causes the engine to enter limp mode with severely restricted power and may prevent starting. Professional DPF cleaning costs £200-400, while replacement units cost £1,000-2,000 fitted. Continued driving with a blocked DPF can damage the turbocharger and EGR system, creating additional repair costs of £1,500-3,000.
Independent garage
£200–£400
Specialist
£250–£500
Main dealer
£300–£600
Parts only
£800–£1,500
Major
Steering lock mechanism failure (A94)
The electric steering lock mechanism fails at 22.5 times the fleet average, particularly on higher mileage examples. This electronic system locks the steering column when the engine is switched off and should unlock automatically when the key is detected. Failure typically manifests as the steering remaining locked when attempting to start the car, or the system failing to engage when the car is parked. The issue affects both 1.6 diesel and 1.2 petrol variants and appears to be related to motor wear in the locking mechanism rather than electronic control faults.
What happens if ignoredComplete steering lock failure can leave the vehicle immobilised with the steering locked in position, requiring recovery. Replacement of the steering lock mechanism typically costs £300-600 including programming. In some cases, the entire steering column requires replacement, costing £800-1,200.
Independent garage
£300–£500
Specialist
£400–£600
Main dealer
£500–£800
Parts only
£200–£400
Minor
Exhaust system corrosion and mounting failure (A94)
The exhaust system shows premature failure rates up to 27 times the national fleet average across all engine variants, with the 1.6 petrol particularly affected. The issues centre on corroded mounting points, failed rubber hangers, and premature corrosion of the rear silencer and intermediate sections. The exhaust routing under the vehicle exposes joints and mounting points to road salt and moisture, leading to structural failure of hangers and mounting brackets rather than just internal corrosion of the silencer boxes.
What happens if ignoredExhaust mounting failure allows sections to hang loose, creating noise and potential contact with the road surface. Complete exhaust system replacement typically costs £300-600 depending on which sections fail. Leaking exhaust joints can allow fumes into the cabin and will cause MOT failure.
Independent garage
£150–£350
Specialist
£180–£400
Main dealer
£250–£500
Parts only
£100–£250
2 more known issues tracked
Including wear items, electrical niggles, and generation-specific problems. Check a specific car to see which issues apply to its age and mileage.
Check a Peugeot 2008 →MOT failure hotspots
Based on DVSA MOT test data. These are the items where the Peugeot 2008 fails at a significantly higher rate than the average car.
Emissions failure
Exhaust & Emissions · 0-20k miles
MOT failure rate: 37x the fleet average
Sample: 5,874 tests
Steering lock missing or not functioning
Steering · 100-120k miles
MOT failure rate: 23x the fleet average
Sample: 6,989 tests
Transmission joint, belt or chain worn
Bodywork · 0-20k miles
MOT failure rate: 21x the fleet average
Sample: 22,389 tests
Transmission shaft constant velocity joint boot...
Bodywork · 40-60k miles
MOT failure rate: 18x the fleet average
Sample: 25,538 tests
Rear registration plate lamp or light source mi...
Lights & Electrics · 20-40k miles
MOT failure rate: 16x the fleet average
Sample: 170,545 tests
Exhaust system damage
Bodywork · 20-40k miles
MOT failure rate: 13x the fleet average
Sample: 174,802 tests
Buying a Peugeot 2008?
Check a specific car's service history to see if it's been looked after — franchised dealer records with dates, mileage, and work done.
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Related
Peugeot 2008 reliability FAQs
What are the most common problems with the Peugeot 2008?
The Peugeot 2008 has 6 known issues across 3 severity levels. The most serious are: Timing belt issues (A94).
Is the Peugeot 2008 reliable?
The Peugeot 2008 has 1 dangerous and 2 major known issues. Most can be avoided with a thorough pre-purchase check and full service history.
How much does it cost to fix Peugeot 2008 problems?
Repair costs range widely. The most significant issue (Timing belt issues (A94)) costs £400–£600 at an independent garage. Minor issues can be under £200. Always get a full inspection before buying.