Generations
Mk1 — First Generation
2007–2013
1.4 16v, 1.4 16v, 1.6 THP, 1.6 16v, 1.6 HDi, 1.6 HDi
Mk2 — Second Generation
2013–2022
1.2 PureTech, 1.6 BlueHDi, 1.5 BlueHDi, 1.5 BlueHDi, 2.0 BlueHDi
Top issues to watch for
The most serious Peugeot 308 problems ranked by severity. We track 14 known issues — here are the ones you need to know about first.
Dangerous
Timing chain failure (Mk1 THP)
The EP6 1.6 THP turbo engine uses a timing chain system with known stretch and tensioner failure issues. Chain stretch of 5-8 degrees is common by 60,000 miles, causing rough idle, poor performance, and engine management lights. Complete chain failure destroys the interference engine with bent valves and piston damage. This was a widespread issue on early production cars that led to class action lawsuits in multiple countries. The issue was partially addressed in later Mk2 variants with improved tensioner design.
What happens if ignoredComplete timing chain failure destroys the interference engine requiring full rebuild or replacement. Repair costs typically exceed £8,000-£15,000. Even minor chain stretch reduces performance and fuel economy while causing progressive engine damage. Cars with suspected timing issues should not be driven until professionally diagnosed.
Independent garage
£800–£1,500
Specialist
£1,000–£2,000
Main dealer
£1,200–£2,500
Parts only
£300–£800
Dangerous
Timing chain tensioner failure (Mk1 THP)
The hydraulic timing chain tensioner on EP6 THP engines fails prematurely, unable to maintain proper chain tension. This is often the root cause of timing chain stretch and failure. The tensioner uses oil pressure to maintain tension but internal seals fail, causing loss of pressure and allowing the chain to slack. Early morning startup rattle is the classic symptom before complete failure occurs. This merged entry covers both EP6 and EP6DT variants which share the same fundamental tensioner design flaw.
What happens if ignoredTensioner failure leads directly to timing chain failure and complete engine destruction in interference engines. Even partial tensioner failure causes accelerated chain wear and timing drift. Complete failure can occur without warning, making this a critical safety issue. Repair costs match timing chain replacement at £600-£1,500.
Independent garage
£600–£1,200
Specialist
£800–£1,500
Main dealer
£1,000–£2,000
Parts only
£200–£500
Dangerous
Timing belt (wet) issues (Mk2)
The 1.2 PureTech EB2 engine uses an unconventional wet timing belt that runs inside the engine oil bath rather than a traditional dry belt. The belt material degrades in oil, causing particles to contaminate the lubrication system and block oil ways. Belt failure is catastrophic on this interference engine. The wet belt design was intended to reduce noise but has proven problematic with premature failures reported well before the 80,000-mile service interval. This is a known issue across PSA Group vehicles using this engine.
What happens if ignoredWet belt failure destroys the interference engine completely, requiring rebuild or replacement costing £8,000-£15,000. Belt particle contamination can damage oil pumps, bearings, and hydraulic systems even before complete failure. The car should not be driven if belt failure is suspected.
Independent garage
£800–£1,400
Specialist
£1,000–£1,800
Main dealer
£1,200–£2,000
Parts only
£200–£400
Major
Water pump failure (Mk1 THP)
The belt-driven water pump on 1.6 THP engines fails prematurely due to bearing wear and seal degradation. The pump is driven by the auxiliary belt system and failure typically manifests as coolant leaks from the pump housing or complete bearing seizure. This is a common failure point that often coincides with timing chain issues due to overheating damage. The pump location makes replacement moderately complex as it requires timing belt area access.
What happens if ignoredWater pump failure causes engine overheating which can lead to head gasket failure, cylinder head warping, or complete engine seizure. Continued driving with a failed pump will cause secondary damage costing thousands. Replacement is moderately complex due to timing belt area access requirements.
Independent garage
£300–£500
Specialist
£400–£600
Main dealer
£500–£800
Parts only
£100–£200
10 more known issues tracked
Including wear items, electrical niggles, and generation-specific problems.
MOT failure hotspots
Based on DVSA MOT test data. These are the items where the Peugeot 308 fails at a significantly higher rate than the average car.
Emissions failure
Exhaust & Emissions · 0-20k miles
MOT failure rate: 109x the fleet average
Sample: 2,199 tests
Transmission joint, belt or chain worn
Bodywork · 40-60k miles
MOT failure rate: 31x the fleet average
Sample: 2,730 tests
Towbar fault
Bodywork · 40-60k miles
MOT failure rate: 30x the fleet average
Sample: 34,939 tests
Headlight fault
Lights & Electrics · 40-60k miles
MOT failure rate: 21x the fleet average
Sample: 141 tests
Light unit fault
Lights & Electrics · 20-40k miles
MOT failure rate: 18x the fleet average
Sample: 22,762 tests
Main load-bearing structural member fractured o...
Bodywork · 20-40k miles
MOT failure rate: 15x the fleet average
Sample: 12,693 tests
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Related
- Peugeot 308 buyer's guide
- Peugeot 308 service history check
- Peugeot 308 service schedule & costs
- Peugeot 308 MOT failure rates
- Peugeot 308 price guide
- How to check Peugeot service history
- Buying a car without service history
- Peugeot 308 car check £7.49
- Free car faults check
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Peugeot 308 reliability FAQs
What are the most common problems with the Peugeot 308?
The Peugeot 308 has 14 known issues across 3 severity levels. The most serious are: Timing chain failure (Mk1 THP), Timing chain tensioner failure (Mk1 THP), Timing belt (wet) issues (Mk2).
Is the Peugeot 308 reliable?
The Peugeot 308 has 3 dangerous and 5 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 308 problems?
Repair costs range widely. The most significant issue (Timing chain failure (Mk1 THP)) costs £800–£1,500 at an independent garage. Minor issues can be under £200. Always get a full inspection before buying.
Which Peugeot 308 generation is most reliable?
The Mk2 (2013–2022) has the fewest dangerous issues (1). However, condition and service history matter more than generation — a well-maintained earlier car can be more reliable than a neglected newer one.