Are Peugeot 2008 Reliable? The Complete Real-World Reliability Guide

When we talk about the Peugeot 2008, we’re talking about a small crossover with big ambitions. It’s stylish, nimble, economical, and well-equipped—qualities that have turned it into a favourite across Europe and South America. But here’s the million-dollar question: is the Peugeot 2008 actually reliable? Or is it the kind of car that behaves until the warranty expires, only to reveal a secret life of electrical tantrums?

In this long-form reliability guide, we’re going to analyse the Peugeot 2008 from every angle: engines, transmissions, electrics, common faults, ownership costs, service intervals, and real-world owner experiences. Think of this as the version of the truth that every buyer wishes they had before signing papers—or every owner wishes they’d read before their first surprise fault warning.

We’ll break it all down casually, with depth, honesty, and that “we’ve-been-there-too” tone. Let’s dive in.

Understanding Peugeot 2008 Reliability: The Foundation

Reliability isn’t just about “does it break?”—it’s about patterns. We assess reliability through:

• Engine durability
• Transmission longevity
• Electrical system stability
• Cost of maintenance and repairs
• Parts availability
• Recurring faults across model years
• Real-world owner feedback

The Peugeot 2008 shows a mixed but overall positive reputation—better than older Peugeots, but with a few weak links that keep appearing across forums, Facebook groups, and mechanic workshops.

A Quick Look at Peugeot 2008 Generations

Understanding reliability means knowing which version we’re talking about.

First Generation (2013–2019)

A compact crossover built on the 208 platform. Main engines included the PureTech petrols, 1.2 VTi, 1.6 THP, and 1.6 BlueHDi diesels.

Strengths:

• Fuel economy
• Solid diesel durability
• Comfortable ride

Weak points:

• Early PureTech timing belt degradation
• Electrical gremlins
• EP6/THP carbon buildup

Second Generation (2020–Present)

New design, new tech, new engines, and a much more modern feel. Includes PureTech petrol, BlueHDi diesel, and e-2008 electric.

Strengths:

• Improved build quality
• Better engines
• Safer and more refined

Weak points:

• PureTech wet timing belt concerns remain
• Sensor/electronic sensitivity
• Higher repair costs due to complexity

So… Are Peugeot 2008 Reliable Overall?

Short answer: Mostly yes, but with caveats.
Long answer: It depends heavily on engine choice and maintenance history.

Owners of the diesel versions often praise their 2008 for being rock-solid, economical, and durable. Petrol PureTech owners? Many feel the same—if the timing belt hasn’t given them heartache.

Think of it like dating someone who’s charming and stylish but occasionally moody. The Peugeot 2008 is reliable enough for daily life, but you’ll want to know its quirks.

Reliability by Engine Type

Let’s get into the heart of the matter: engines make or break reliability.

Petrol Engines Reliability

PureTech 1.2 (82, 110, 130 hp)

The most widespread Peugeot engine—and the one with the biggest reputation.

Pros:

• Punchy performance
• Great fuel economy
• Widely available parts
• Loved by most owners

Cons:

• Timing belt disintegration in early years
• Intake clogging
• Occasional oil leaks

Many pre-2018 models used a wet belt design that degraded prematurely due to oil contamination. Peugeot revised the design, but some issues persist—regular oil changes are non-negotiable.

1.6 THP (Older Models)

Shared with MINI and BMW, famous for:

• Turbo punch
• Carbon buildup
• High-pressure fuel pump issues

This engine can be reliable—but only with obsessive maintenance.

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Verdict for Petrol

Good engines, but maintenance-sensitive. If you buy a used one, check belt history and oil change frequency.

Diesel Engines Reliability

1.6 BlueHDi

Widely regarded as one of Peugeot’s strongest engines.

Pros:

• Excellent longevity
• Low fuel consumption
• Reliable DPF with proper use

Cons:

• AdBlue system sensitivity
• EGR valve failures

1.5 BlueHDi (Newer Models)

Even better, smoother, and more efficient. Very few widespread issues reported so far.

Verdict for Diesel

The most reliable Peugeot 2008 engine choice, especially for long-distance drivers.

Electric Peugeot e-2008 Reliability

A newer addition, but surprisingly solid.

Pros:

• No timing belt issues
• Simple drivetrain
• Quiet and smooth
• Fewer moving parts

Cons:

• Range degradation over many years
• Occasional software glitches
• Expensive battery module replacement

Still, electric versions tend to be more reliable than combustion options.

Common Issues That Affect Peugeot 2008 Reliability

Every car has weak spots—here are the ones you’ll want to know.

Engine-Related Issues

Wet Belt Wear (PureTech Engines)

The biggest headline issue. Symptoms include:

• “Oil pressure low” warnings
• Squealing noise
• Rough idle
• Slow acceleration

Early replacement is often the safest option.

Turbo Failure

Usually caused by:

• Dirty oil
• Low oil pressure
• Restricted lubrication
• Driving with degraded timing belts

Oil Leaks

Typically from rocker cover, sump gasket, or turbo pipes.

Electrical and Electronics Issues

Peugeot is notorious for sensitive electronics—improved dramatically after 2020, but still present.

Common Complaints

• Touchscreen freezing
• Parking sensors failing
• Automatic folding mirrors malfunctioning
• Key not detected
• Random warning lights

Most are minor but annoying rather than catastrophic.

Transmission Reliability

Two major transmissions appear in the 2008:

EAT6 / EAT8 Automatic

Very reliable Japanese Aisin gearbox.
Smooth, durable, rarely problematic.

ETG / EGC Robotised Manual

Avoid if possible.
Juddery, slow, and less reliable.

Manual Gearbox

Solid overall, but clutch wear can appear early for city drivers.

Suspension and Steering Reliability

The 2008 uses simple, durable suspension.

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Usual Issues

• Front drop-links wear
• Rear shocks soften over time
• Steering column noise

Not major failures—just standard wear-and-tear.

Interior Durability

Peugeot interiors look fantastic but have mixed durability.

Strengths

• Seats hold up well
• Dashboard lasts
• Good materials in newer models

Weak Spots

• Early models: peeling buttons
• Sticky plastics in hot climates
• Touchscreen sensitivity

Real-World Owner Reviews: What People Actually Say

We’ve gone through hundreds of forums, YouTube reviews, and owner groups—here’s the summary:

Positive trends:

• Great drivability
• Low running costs
• Comfortable
• Strong diesel engines
• Better than older Peugeot models

Negative trends:

• PureTech timing belt anxiety
• Electrical warning lights
• Expensive dealer repairs
• Sensors randomly failing

Overall sentiment: mostly satisfied, but wary of known faults.

Cost of Ownership: How Reliability Affects Your Wallet

Owning a Peugeot 2008 can be economical—if you maintain it.

Typical Yearly Costs

• Servicing: moderate
• Parts: affordable
• Fuel: excellent on diesel and PureTech
• Tyres: mid-range
• Insurance: low-to-moderate

Unexpected Costs to Watch For

• Timing belt replacement
• EGR failures
• AdBlue injector issues
• Catalytic converter repairs

Maintenance Tips to Improve Peugeot 2008 Reliability

If we had to give a new owner a cheat sheet, here’s what we’d tell them.

Follow These Rules Religiously

• Use quality oil and change it every 8,000–10,000 miles
• Inspect the timing belt early on PureTech engines
• Drive longer distances occasionally to protect the DPF
• Keep the AdBlue tank above ¼
• Update software regularly
• Clean intake system every 40k miles
• Replace spark plugs earlier than Peugeot suggests

Which Peugeot 2008 Model Is the Most Reliable?

After comparing engines, generations, and owner reports:

The Most Reliable Peugeot 2008 Versions

• 1.5 BlueHDi Diesel (2020+) – best overall
• 1.6 BlueHDi Diesel (2015–2019) – proven long-term reliability
• e-2008 Electric – minimal mechanical issues

The Least Reliable Versions

• 1.2 PureTech (2014–2017) – early wet belt issues
• 1.6 THP petrol – carbon buildup, HPFP issues
• ETG automatic models – jerky and troublesome

When the Peugeot 2008 Is Reliable

Let’s be fair—the car shines in many reliability scenarios.

It’s reliable when:

• It’s serviced on time
• It has the updated timing belt
• It’s a diesel model
• Electronic modules have received latest software
• It hasn’t been abused with long oil intervals

When cared for, this crossover can easily pass 200,000 km without drama.

When the Peugeot 2008 Is Not Reliable

The Peugeot 2008 struggles when:

• Owners push service intervals too far
• Cheap oil and filters are used
• The car is driven only on short trips
• Timing belt is ignored
• Software is outdated
• Sensors are neglected

It’s a modern car—essentially, you can’t treat it like a 1995 Toyota.

Should You Buy a Used Peugeot 2008?

Absolutely—but only if you know what to avoid.

Buy if:

• Diesel model
• Proper service history
• Timing belt already replaced
• No warning lights on test drive

Avoid if:

• ETG gearbox
• Patchy service history
• Belts not replaced at recommended intervals
• Excessive oil consumption

Final Verdict: Are Peugeot 2008 Reliable?

So, the million-dollar answer:

Yes, the Peugeot 2008 is reliable—especially the diesel and newer models—
but petrol PureTech versions require careful maintenance due to timing belt and sensor-related issues.

In the right configuration, with proper upkeep, the Peugeot 2008 can be a loyal companion, delivering comfort, efficiency, and low running costs for years.

Take care of it, and it will take care of you.

FAQs About Peugeot 2008 Reliability

1. Is the Peugeot 2008 a reliable car overall?

Yes, particularly the diesel models and second-generation 2020+ versions.

2. What is the most reliable Peugeot 2008 engine?

The 1.5 BlueHDi (diesel) is widely considered the most dependable.

3. Is the 1.2 PureTech engine reliable?

It can be—if the timing belt has been maintained and replaced early.

4. Does the Peugeot 2008 have electrical problems?

Some models do, mostly minor: touchscreen, sensors, and warning lights.

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5. Is the e-2008 electric model reliable?

Yes—fewer mechanical parts mean fewer failure points.

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