There’s something uniquely frustrating about turning the key — or pressing that start button — and hearing… nothing. Or maybe a weak click. Or a dramatic crank that goes nowhere. If your Peugeot 308 not starting has become part of your morning routine, we’re going to fix that.

We’ll walk through this together — logically, calmly, step by step. No fluff. No vague advice. Just real-world troubleshooting that actually helps.

Whether you drive a first-generation T7 (2007–2013), a second-generation T9 (2013–2021), or the newer P5 model, the principles are largely the same. Let’s break it down.

Understanding the Problem: What “Not Starting” Really Means

Before we grab tools or panic-Google replacement parts, we need to define the symptom.

Is your Peugeot 308:

• Completely dead?
• Clicking but not cranking?
• Cranking but not firing?
• Starting and immediately stalling?

Each scenario points to a different root cause.

Think of starting your car like lighting a campfire. You need:

1. Power
2. Fuel
3. Spark
4. Air
5. Proper timing

If one is missing, the engine won’t come to life.

Peugeot 308 Completely Dead – No Lights, No Click

1. Flat or Dead Battery

This is the most common culprit. If there’s no dashboard light, no interior illumination, and no central locking response, the battery is suspect.

Common reasons:

• Old battery (3–5 years typical lifespan)
• Parasitic drain
• Cold weather
• Alternator not charging

Quick checks:

• Measure voltage (12.6V = healthy)
• Try jump starting
• Inspect terminals for corrosion

If it starts with a jump, replace the battery.

2. Loose or Corroded Battery Terminals

Even a healthy battery won’t help if power can’t flow.

Look for:

• White powdery buildup
• Loose clamps
• Broken ground cable

Cleaning terminals can sometimes solve the entire issue in five minutes.

Peugeot 308 Clicking But Not Cranking

That single sharp “click” is the starter solenoid trying to work.

3. Weak Battery Under Load

The battery may show 12V but collapse under load. This is common in ageing units.

Signs:

• Rapid clicking
• Lights dim when attempting start

Replace it.

4. Faulty Starter Motor

If the battery is strong but the engine won’t turn, the starter may be failing.

Symptoms:

• Loud click, no crank
• Intermittent starting
• Burning smell

Starter motors wear out. It’s mechanical. Brushes degrade. Solenoids stick.

Replacement is the fix.

Peugeot 308 Cranks But Won’t Start

Now we’re into fuel, spark, and air territory.

The engine turns — but refuses to ignite.

5. Fuel System Issues

No fuel = no combustion.

Possible causes:

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• Failed fuel pump
• Clogged fuel filter
• Faulty fuel pressure regulator
• Empty tank (yes, it happens)

Listen for the fuel pump priming when you turn the ignition on. No hum? That’s a clue.

6. Immobiliser Problems

Modern 308 models use an immobiliser system. If the key isn’t recognised, the engine will crank but not fire — or won’t crank at all.

Look for:

• “Key not detected”
• Immobiliser warning light
• Flashing security symbol

Try:

• Spare key
• Replacing key fob battery
• BSI reset procedure

7. Spark Plug or Coil Pack Failure

Petrol engines depend on spark.

Misfiring before total failure? That’s often the warning sign.

Common symptoms:

• Rough idle
• Engine shaking
• Check engine light

If your 308 suddenly refuses to start after misfiring, inspect ignition components.

Peugeot 308 Diesel Not Starting (HDi Models)

Diesels behave differently.

8. Glow Plug Failure

In cold weather especially, worn glow plugs can prevent starting.

Signs:

• Hard start when cold
• Glow plug warning light
• Rough running for first few seconds

9. Fuel System Air Lock

After fuel filter replacement or running dry, air can enter the system.

The engine cranks endlessly but won’t fire.

Priming the system usually solves it.

Electrical and Control Module Issues

Modern Peugeots are rolling computers.

10. BSI (Body Systems Interface) Glitch

The BSI module controls:

• Immobiliser
• Central locking
• Dashboard systems

A corrupted BSI can prevent starting.

Symptoms:

• Random warning lights
• Central locking failure
• Wipers activating randomly

A proper BSI reset may fix it.

11. Crankshaft Position Sensor Failure

No crankshaft signal = no fuel injection.

Symptoms:

• Engine cuts out while driving
• Cranks but won’t fire
• No RPM reading while cranking

This sensor is critical.

Peugeot 308 Automatic Not Starting

Automatic versions add another layer.

12. Gear Selector Not in Park

If the car doesn’t detect “P” or “N,” it won’t crank.

Try:

• Moving shifter between positions
• Starting in neutral

When It Starts Then Immediately Dies

This often indicates:

• Fuel pressure issue
• Throttle body problem
• Air intake leak
• Faulty MAF sensor

Think of it as the engine trying to breathe but suffocating.

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Cold Weather Starting Problems

Peugeot 308 models — especially diesel — can struggle in extreme cold.

Key areas to inspect:

• Battery condition
• Glow plugs
• Fuel quality
• Engine oil viscosity

Thicker oil = harder cranking.

Step-by-Step Peugeot 308 No Start Diagnosis

Let’s simplify the process.

Basic Troubleshooting Flow

1. Check battery voltage
2. Inspect terminals
3. Try jump start
4. Listen for fuel pump
5. Scan for fault codes
6. Try spare key
7. Check fuses
8. Inspect starter

Work from simple to complex.

Warning Lights That Matter

If your Peugeot 308 won’t start, pay attention to:

• Engine management light
• Immobiliser symbol
• Battery warning
• Glow plug indicator
• STOP warning

They’re clues, not decorations.

When to Call a Mechanic

Call for help if:

• No crank with good battery
• No fuel pressure
• ECU-related fault codes
• Persistent immobiliser issues

Some problems require diagnostic tools beyond DIY capability.

How to Prevent Peugeot 308 Starting Issues

We don’t just fix — we prevent.

• Replace battery every 4–5 years
• Use quality fuel
• Service regularly
• Avoid letting tank run dry (diesel)
• Replace spark plugs on schedule

Maintenance is cheaper than breakdowns.

Estimated Repair Costs

Approximate ranges (varies by region):

• Battery replacement: Moderate
• Starter motor: Moderate to high
• Fuel pump: High
• Crank sensor: Low to moderate
• Glow plugs: Moderate
• BSI programming: High

Diagnose first. Spend later.

Is the Peugeot 308 Reliable Overall?

Most starting issues are age-related, not design flaws.

Common causes:

• Batteries
• Starter motors
• Sensors

They’re consumables, not catastrophic failures.

Final Thoughts: Stay Calm and Diagnose Smart

When your Peugeot 308 not starting leaves you stranded, it feels dramatic. But in most cases, the solution is simple.

Start with the basics. Power first. Then fuel. Then spark.

Don’t replace parts blindly.

Diagnose like a detective, not a gambler.

Conclusion

A Peugeot 308 refusing to start isn’t the end of the world. It’s usually a tired battery, a worn starter, or a sensor crying for retirement.

By following a structured approach — checking electrical systems first, then fuel and ignition — we avoid unnecessary expenses and wasted time.

Cars are logical machines. If they don’t start, something essential is missing.

Find what’s missing. Fix it. Drive on.

FAQs

1. Why does my Peugeot 308 click but not start?

Most likely a weak battery or faulty starter motor.

2. Can a key fob battery stop my 308 from starting?

Yes, especially in push-button models with immobiliser systems.

3. Why does my diesel 308 crank but not fire?

Common causes include glow plug failure or air in the fuel system.

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4. How do I reset the BSI on a Peugeot 308?

A controlled battery disconnect procedure may help, but incorrect reset can cause further issues.

5. How long should a Peugeot 308 battery last?

Typically 3–5 years depending on climate and driving habits.

If you want to know other articles similar to Peugeot 308 Not Starting: Complete Troubleshooting Guide you can visit the category Common Problems.