Generations
Mk1 — First Generation
2010–2018
1.6 THP, 1.6 HDi, 2.0 HDi, 2.2 HDi, 2.0 HDi Hybrid4
Mk2 — Second Generation
2018–2022
1.2 PureTech, 1.5 BlueHDi, 2.0 BlueHDi
Top issues to watch for
The most serious Peugeot 508 problems ranked by severity. We track 8 known issues — here are the ones you need to know about first.
Major
Timing chain issues (Mk1)
The EP6 1.6 THP engine uses a single-row timing chain that stretches prematurely due to inadequate oil change intervals and design limitations. The chain tensioner cannot compensate for excessive stretch, causing timing retardation and potential valve-to-piston contact. This is a well-documented failure mode across the PSA group (Peugeot, Citroën, DS) affecting multiple models with this engine. Chain replacement requires engine removal or significant dismantling work. Later EP6 revisions improved the tensioner design but did not eliminate the issue entirely.
What happens if ignoredA stretched timing chain causes timing retardation, reducing power and fuel economy. If the chain jumps timing completely, valve-to-piston contact destroys the engine requiring full reconstruction. Chain replacement is engine-out work costing £2,000-£3,500 including labour. The car should not be driven hard if chain wear is suspected.
Independent garage
£2,000–£3,000
Specialist
£2,200–£3,500
Main dealer
£3,000–£4,500
Parts only
£600–£1,500
Major
DPF blockage and regeneration issues (Mk1)
The diesel particulate filter (DPF) on DV6 1.6 HDi and DW10 2.0 HDi engines blocks with soot when used primarily for short journeys or stop-start driving. The regeneration system requires sustained high exhaust temperatures that cannot be achieved in urban use. PSA's DPF design is particularly sensitive to fuel quality and oil contamination. When regeneration fails repeatedly, the DPF becomes irreversibly blocked and requires replacement. This is exacerbated by owners ignoring DPF warning lights and continuing to drive when regeneration is needed.
What happens if ignoredA completely blocked DPF restricts exhaust flow, causing power loss and potential engine damage. DPF replacement costs £1,500-£2,500 fitted. Attempted cleaning services (£200-£400) have mixed success rates on severely blocked filters. The car will enter limp mode if the DPF becomes critically blocked.
Independent garage
£200–£400
Specialist
£300–£600
Main dealer
£500–£800
Parts only
£500–£1,500
Major
Turbocharger failure (Mk1)
The DW12 2.2 HDi engine uses a variable geometry turbocharger that fails due to carbon build-up in the variable vane mechanism and bearing wear from oil contamination. Extended oil change intervals and poor-quality diesel fuel accelerate the failure. The turbo actuator mechanism seizes, causing overboosting or complete loss of boost pressure. This engine was primarily used in higher-specification 508s and shared with other PSA models. Turbocharger replacement requires removal of significant engine ancillaries and heat shields.
What happens if ignoredComplete turbo failure causes severe power loss and potential engine damage from oil starvation or debris ingestion. A seized turbo can overboost and damage pistons or cylinder heads. Replacement costs £1,500-£3,000 including labour. The car is safe to drive gently but should not be used for long journeys if turbo failure is suspected.
Independent garage
£1,200–£2,000
Specialist
£1,500–£2,500
Main dealer
£2,000–£3,500
Parts only
£800–£2,000
Minor
CV joint boot deterioration
The CV joint boots on diesel variants deteriorate at 64.3x the fleet average rate, with the highest failure rate occurring unusually early at 20,000-40,000 miles. The rubber compound appears particularly susceptible to degradation from road salt and temperature cycling. Once the boot splits, dirt and water contaminate the CV joint bearing surfaces, leading to joint failure within 10,000-20,000 miles. This affects both outer and inner CV joints on both sides.
What happens if ignoredSplit CV boots allow contamination of the joint, leading to bearing surface damage and eventual joint failure. A failed CV joint causes loss of drive to that wheel and potential wheel detachment. Boot replacement costs £80-£150 per side. If the joint is already damaged, replacement costs £200-£400 per side.
Independent garage
£80–£150
Specialist
£100–£180
Main dealer
£150–£250
Parts only
£25–£60
4 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 508 →MOT failure hotspots
Based on DVSA MOT test data. These are the items where the Peugeot 508 fails at a significantly higher rate than the average car.
Suspension pin, bush or joint
Suspension · 40-60k miles
MOT failure rate: 21x the fleet average
Sample: 1,411 tests
Emissions failure
Exhaust & Emissions · 40-60k miles
MOT failure rate: 16x the fleet average
Sample: 3,536 tests
Stop lamp with a multiple light source up to 1/...
Lights & Electrics · 20-40k miles
MOT failure rate: 16x the fleet average
Sample: 1,704 tests
Transmission shaft constant velocity joint boot...
Bodywork · 20-40k miles
MOT failure rate: 14x the fleet average
Sample: 599 tests
Reflector defective or damaged by up to 50% of ...
Lights & Electrics · 40-60k miles
MOT failure rate: 11x the fleet average
Sample: 1,786 tests
Tyre seriously damaged
Tyres · 40-60k miles
MOT failure rate: 10x the fleet average
Sample: 195 tests
Buying a Peugeot 508?
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 508 reliability FAQs
What are the most common problems with the Peugeot 508?
The Peugeot 508 has 8 known issues across 3 severity levels. The most common problems relate to Timing chain issues (Mk1) and DPF blockage and regeneration issues (Mk1).
Is the Peugeot 508 reliable?
The Peugeot 508 has 0 dangerous and 3 major known issues. No dangerous issues are tracked, which is a positive sign.
How much does it cost to fix Peugeot 508 problems?
Repair costs range widely. The most significant issue (Timing chain issues (Mk1)) costs £2,000–£3,000 at an independent garage. Minor issues can be under £200. Always get a full inspection before buying.
Which Peugeot 508 generation is most reliable?
The Mk1 (2010–2018) has the fewest dangerous issues (0). However, condition and service history matter more than generation — a well-maintained earlier car can be more reliable than a neglected newer one.