Popular French family hatchback known for excellent fuel economy (50-55 mpg real world) and low running costs. The DV6 1.6 HDi engine is shared across PSA brands (Peugeot, Citroën, Ford, Mazda, Volvo) making parts widely available and affordable. Main concerns center on turbo failures from oil starvation, DPF blockages on short-trip vehicles, timing belt tensioner wear, and injector seal leaks causing carbon buildup. Not for city-only use - this diesel needs regular motorway runs. TÜV reliability data shows 308s ranking toward the bottom of German inspection charts, but most issues are preventable with proper maintenance.
The DV6 1.6 HDi has a well-documented turbo failure pattern. Leaking injector seals and partially blocked DPF cause carbon buildup in engine oil. A small gauze filter in the turbo oil feed pipe then clogs, starving the turbo of lubrication and causing bearing failure. This can lead to engine runaway where the turbo seals fail and the engine burns its own oil, revving to 10,000+ rpm until all oil is consumed. Dealer repairs cost €2,500-2,900, while independent garages charge €1,100-1,500. Prevention: change oil every 6,000-10,000 km using correct 5W30 low-SAPS oil, not 10W40. At 80,000 km preventively replace injector seals, clean sump, and remove the gauze filter from turbo oil feed pipe. Regular spirited driving and premium fuel help prevent actuator sticking.
Frequent short trips prevent regeneration, eventually blocks filter completely · more· less
The 308 HDi uses an additive system (Eolys) to lower DPF regeneration temperature, but still requires regular longer drives. Symptoms include anti-pollution warning light, loss of power, and refusal to start. Forced regeneration costs €200-400. DPF cleaning costs around €180. New filter replacement costs €500-1,300 depending on dealer vs independent. The additive is stored in a bladder that needs replacement around 100,000 km. This diesel is NOT suitable for primarily city driving or trips under 20 minutes. To regenerate properly, the engine needs to rev above 2,000 rpm and reach full operating temperature. Regular motorway/fast A-road driving is essential. One owner reported their 308 HDi was "forever in limp mode with DPF sooting up" despite mainly motorway miles - this indicates the engine may have had other issues contributing to excessive soot.
Timing belt tensioner failure€1,000 - €2,200
Belt stretches, premature failure common despite 180,000 km interval · more· less
The 1.6 HDi uses a timing belt, not a chain. While Peugeot/Citroën officially recommends 180,000 km or 9 years (for engines with DPF), many specialists strongly recommend replacement at 100,000 km or even 80,000 km. The PSA 1.6 HDi units are "massively common for timing belt failures." When the belt breaks, valves hit pistons, breaking rockers and sometimes causing cam lobes to turn (they're pressed-on, not machined from solid). Post-2010 revisions improved the situation, but belt failure remains a concern. Many owners report Peugeot/Citroën changed the official interval to 6 years/100,000 km. Full replacement including tensioner, pulleys, and water pump costs €1,000-2,200 depending on shop. If the belt has failed, repair typically requires new cam, rockers, and belt, costing similar amounts if caught early.
Extremely common issue on DV6 engines. Symptoms include hissing/psst-psst sound from injectors, exhaust smell in cabin, black tar-like substance around injectors and cam cover. Injector seals fail due to low clamping force. Compression leaks past the seal, reducing cylinder pressure. ECU compensates with more fuel, creating excessive carbon ("black death") that enters the oil and contributes to turbo failure. Parts are cheap (copper seal €2.60, plastic protector €3.05 each), but labor runs €150-400 depending on how much carbon cleaning is required. Common mistakes: leaving old copper washer in head and installing new one on top (continued leaking), or using wrong seal kit (Bosch vs Continental injectors need different parts). Later engines (post-2010) have redesigned seals, confirming PSA knew this was a problem. Prevention is critical - replace injector seals preventively around 80,000 km before they cause turbo damage.
EGR valve clogging/failure€200 - €700
Carbon buildup causes valve to stick, triggers anti-pollution warning · more· less
The EGR valve recycles exhaust gases but becomes clogged with carbon over time, especially on vehicles used for short trips. Symptoms include rough running, anti-pollution fault light, and loss of power. The valve is difficult to access - requires removing air filter box, battery, battery tray, fuel filter, and plastic under windshield. Many owners describe it as "a pig to get to." Cleaning is possible if caught early and costs €200-350 in labor. Replacement costs €400-700 total. On petrol models, be careful as the EGR also provides air to the brake servo. When the EGR fails, it should be replaced along with the turbo if turbo issues are present, as clogged EGR can be the root cause of turbo problems.
Known as the "infamous bottom pulley rattle" among HDi owners. The original crankshaft pulley design on PSA HDi engines is described by owners as "made of cheese" - it's a two-piece design that regularly falls apart. Peugeot has released a modified version, and mechanics now recommend a smaller one-piece replacement. Symptoms include very loud metallic tapping noise when engine is running. When one owner called a garage mentioning their Peugeot model, "the chap asked if it was for a crank pulley" before hearing the problem - showing how common this is. Main dealer charges around €320, independent garages €150-200 including new auxiliary belt. Aftermarket parts available from €55. Not dangerous but creates alarming noise.
Fuel pump failure€400 - €900
High-pressure fuel pump wears out between 120,000-180,000 km · more· less
The 1.6 HDi high-pressure fuel pump is prone to wear from contaminated fuel or general age. Typical failure occurs between 120,000-180,000 km. Symptoms include difficulty starting, loss of power, rough running, or complete failure to start. When the pump fails, fuel pressure drops affecting stop-start system operation. Replacement costs €400-900 depending on pump specification and labor rates. Use quality diesel fuel and change fuel filter regularly to extend pump life.
Glow plugs failure€150 - €500
Glow plugs wear out causing hard starting when cold, typical wear item · more· less
Glow plugs are normal maintenance items on diesel engines. The 308 1.6 HDi uses 4 glow plugs. Symptoms of failure include difficulty starting when cold, rough idle after cold start, white smoke on startup. Individual glow plugs cost €5-17 each. Total replacement including labor costs €150-500. Expected lifespan varies but typically 80,000-120,000 km. Often replaced as a set to ensure consistent performance.
Alternator/battery charging issues€200 - €700
"Battery charge or electrical supply fault" warning, smart alternator control issues · more· less
The 308 uses a battery charge status monitor (small box on negative terminal) and smart alternator system. Common issues include the alternator not maintaining voltage above 12.8V, BSI software fault overestimating battery voltage by 350mV causing incorrect alternator control, and battery protection unit failures. Some owners find the battery manager/fuse box (part 6500GR) on top of battery needs replacement - straightforward job with 13mm socket. First steps: clean battery terminals, check ground cables for corrosion/looseness, verify serpentine belt tension. Voltage should be 12.6V engine off, 13.8-14.5V engine running. Full alternator replacement costs €400-700. Battery monitor unit replacement €200-350.
Front suspension anti-roll bar links€100 - €300
Connecting links wear causing rattling/clunking on rough roads · more· less
Very common 308 issue. Owners report pronounced rattling noise from front suspension, especially on rough roads. The front anti-roll bar drop links wear and develop play. Check carefully for any movement - if play is detected, the connecting rod needs replacement. Anti-roll bar links and bushes are normal fault items. Also check wheel bearings, bottom ball joint boots, track rod ends, lower arm bushes, shock absorber top mounts, and springs. One owner had ball joint and engine mount replaced but knocking persisted, indicating multiple worn components. Parts are relatively cheap (€50-100), labor adds €100-200.
Reliability depends heavily on driving pattern and maintenance
The 1.6 HDi can be reliable if properly maintained and used appropriately. Critical: avoid if you only drive short trips in the city. This engine needs regular motorway runs to regenerate the DPF and prevent carbon buildup. Change oil every 6,000-10,000 km (not the 16,000 km official interval) using correct 5W30 low-SAPS oil. Replace injector seals preventively at 80,000 km. Replace timing belt at 100,000 km maximum, not the official 180,000 km. Most expensive failures (turbo, timing belt) are preventable with proper maintenance. Parts are widely available and affordable due to PSA engine sharing across brands.
Pre-Purchase Inspection Checklist
General checks
Complete service history essential
Verify oil changes at 10,000 km maximum intervals. Check oil type used (must be 5W30 low-SAPS, not 10W40). Look for evidence of timing belt replacement if over 100,000 km.
Cold start test mandatory
Engine must be completely cold. Listen for any rattling, knocking, or unusual sounds. Excessive smoke on startup indicates problems.
Extended test drive (minimum 30 minutes)
Must include motorway speeds to get DPF up to temperature. Monitor for warning lights, loss of power, or regeneration attempts.
Check for warning lights
Anti-pollution warning, engine management light, DPF light, battery charge fault. All are serious concerns.
Body and interior condition
Check for rust, accident damage. Ideal for city use means scraped bumpers and damaged alloys are common.
Specific for this vehicle
Listen for turbo whistle or smoke from exhaust
Blue or black smoke, whistling noise, or significant power loss indicate turbo failure. Check for oil around turbo area. Ask about oil change history.
Check around injectors for black carbon deposits
Open bonnet and inspect around injector area on valve cover. Black tar-like substance or oil seepage indicates injector seal leaks ("black death").
Verify DPF regeneration and warning lights
Ask owner how often they do motorway driving. Short-trip-only vehicles will have DPF issues. Check for anti-pollution warning in instrument cluster.
Crankshaft pulley noise check
With engine running, listen for loud metallic tapping/rattling from bottom of engine. Common pulley failure - not dangerous but needs repair.
Timing belt replacement documentation
Critical check. If over 100,000 km and no proof of replacement, budget €1,000-2,200 immediately. Don't trust the 180,000 km interval.
Front suspension noise test
Drive over speed bumps and rough roads. Rattling or clunking from front indicates worn anti-roll bar links - very common issue.
Check battery voltage and alternator operation
Use multimeter: 12.6V engine off, 13.8-14.5V running. Lower values indicate charging system issues. Check battery terminals for corrosion.
EGR valve and intake system carbon buildup
Rough idle, hesitation, or anti-pollution warnings can indicate EGR valve problems. Professional inspection recommended.
Glow plug function test
Hard starting when cold or white smoke on startup indicates glow plug issues. Test starting from fully cold engine.
Recalls and Technical Service Bulletins
Engine relay unit deterioration (2008)Check completed
High pressure fuel rail torque spec (2008-2010)Check completed
Front suspension wishbone bolts (2008-2009)Check completed
Power steering pump stiffness (2009)Check completed
Contact a Peugeot dealer with the VIN to verify all recalls have been completed. The 308 T7 has had numerous recalls, particularly around brakes, steering, and fuel system. Verification is essential before purchase.
Warranty Status
Factory warranty (2 years unlimited mileage)Expired (2007-2014 models)
Extended warranty optionsAvailable from third parties
All 308 T7 models (2007-2014) are well outside their original factory warranty period. Third-party extended warranties may be available but typically exclude wear items and pre-existing conditions. Given the age of these vehicles, comprehensive mechanical inspection is more important than warranty coverage.
This report is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. Estimates may be inaccurate. Always have a qualified specialist inspect the vehicle before purchase. We accept no liability for decisions made based on this information.