Peugeot 2008
Naturally aspirated variant of the 1.2L PureTech three-cylinder. Simple technology without turbo, solid base engine.
SUV looks, naturally aspirated reality
The small 1.2 naturally aspirated engine with 56 kW in the 2008 A94 is an unfortunate combination: the higher SUV weight noticeably overwhelms the turbine-free three-cylinder. Hill climbs become a struggle; overtaking reserves barely exist. Better to choose the turbo EB2DT.
Engine Weaknesses 7
The naturally aspirated EB2 also uses an oil-lubricated timing belt (wet belt). When oil changes are neglected or the car is used mainly for short trips the oil degrades faster, the belt swells and starts to break up. Rubber particles clog the oil pump strainer and VVT solenoid valves. In the worst case the belt snaps and pistons hit valves — total engine failure.
Symptoms: Engine management light, rough running, oil pressure warning, sudden engine shutdown
The crankshaft thrust washers (half-rings) are undersized and wear prematurely. When axial play exceeds 0.5 mm the timing belt can jump off its sprockets — valves collide with pistons and the cylinder head is destroyed. The thrust washers are not available separately; the entire block must be replaced.
Symptoms: Knocking noises when pressing and releasing the clutch, engine rattling, sudden catastrophic engine failure
The crankshaft thrust washers wear particularly quickly and cause axial play. From 0.5 mm of axial play Stellantis recommends replacing the complete engine block. Affects all EB2 generations up to build year 2022. Repair costs potentially 2,000–8,000 Euro.
Symptoms: Vibration at idle, metallic knock on load changes, oil pressure warning, engine noise that varies with rpm
The oil control rings coke up from carbon deposits and lose their sealing ability. Excess oil enters the combustion chamber and is burned. Some engines consume 1 litre of oil per 1,500 km — far above PSA's tolerance of 1 litre per 6,000 km.
Symptoms: High oil consumption, blue smoke when revving, oil level needs frequent topping up
Like the EP6/EP3, the thermostat housing on the 1.2 PureTech EB2 tends to develop leaks. Coolant loss without a visible puddle. Also check the expansion tank cap.
Symptoms: Dropping coolant level, no visible leak, occasional coolant smell
Spark plugs on the three-cylinder engine can fail prematurely through oil contamination. Misfires and ignition failures particularly after a cold start. Reduce the change interval to 30,000–40,000 km.
Symptoms: Engine runs on 2 cylinders after cold start, misfires, engine warning light, ignition fault codes
Like all PSA direct injection engines, the EB2 tends to build up carbon deposits on intake valves and injectors with predominantly short-trip use. Made worse by the known oil dilution problem: fuel residues in the oil promote deposit formation.
Symptoms: Power loss particularly at low revs, increased consumption, rough idle, misfires in cold conditions
Vehicle Weaknesses 6
On PureTech 110/130 models (03/2013–04/2017) timing belt wear particles can affect the vacuum pump and impair brake servo function.
All model years of the 2008 I stand out at inspection with above-average brake disc wear. Pads and discs need replacing more frequently than on competitors.
The exhaust system on the 2008 I shows a clearly above-average defect rate at inspection. Leaks and corrosion at the joints appear earlier than on competitors.
Track rod ends and ball joints on the 2008 I wear at higher mileages and get flagged at inspection. Cars used predominantly on rough roads are affected earlier.
Headlight alignment on the 2008 I fails inspection above-average rates. The headlight levelling system and bulbs show premature failure.
The exhaust system on the 2008 I shows an elevated defect rate at inspection due to corrosion. The rear silencer and centre pipes are particularly susceptible, especially on cars predominantly used for short trips.
