Peugeot 2008
1.2-litre three-cylinder turbo with 48V mild hybrid system and timing chain (NOT a wet belt like the predecessor EB2DTS). 21 kW electric motor integrated into the e-DCS6 dual-clutch gearbox. From 2024 in 208 P21, 2008 P24, and 308 P51 as MHEV variant. More reliable than the predecessor thanks to the eliminated wet belt issue.
Compact SUV with mild hybrid
The 2008 MHEV with 136 hp is a sensible choice: enough power for the SUV's weight, electrical assistance when pulling away and moderate fuel consumption. Not a driver's car, but fit for purpose every day.
Engine Weaknesses 6
A miscalibrated motor control unit (MCU) incorrectly detects an internal insulation fault and opens the clutch as a result — unexpected loss of drive while moving is possible.
The new e-DCT6 dual-clutch gearbox shows occasional shuddering at low speeds, shift hesitation or protective shutdowns on early production vehicles — usually caused by immature software calibration.
Symptoms: Shuddering when pulling away and at low speed, shift hesitation, occasional gearbox fault messages, warning lights (ESP, ADAS)
The latest PureTech generation HN09 shows early reports of camshaft problems similar to the predecessor PureTech engines according to L'Argus. Early warning sign: increased oil consumption from as early as 16,000 km.
Symptoms: Oil level warning early, rough engine running, knocking on cold start
Three-cylinder direct-injection turbocharged engines of the EB2 family tend towards increased oil consumption during predominantly short-trip use due to soot deposits at the oil control ring gaps.
Symptoms: Oil level drops between service intervals, slight blue smoke on cold start
The turbocharger on the HN09 requires adequate oil supply and cool-down time. Short-trip use without sufficient temperature promotes oil coking in turbo bearings and oil lines.
Symptoms: Turbo whine after extended standing, power loss under high load, smoke after engine shutdown
The PureTech engine family has a known weakness with the water pump and thermostat. On the HN09 thermal load from the turbocharger is elevated. Early coolant loss is possible.
Symptoms: Dropping coolant level, temperature fluctuations, engine overheating warning light
Vehicle Weaknesses 8
The second-generation 2008 also stands out at inspection with excessively worn brake discs. The problem carries over from the predecessor, particularly on the front axle.
Shock absorbers and suspension components on the 2008 II show premature wear. Particularly on poor roads, the worn components make themselves known through noise.
Oil loss in the drivetrain area of the 2008 II occurs above average. Leaking shaft seals or cam cover gaskets are the typical culprits.
The AC condenser loses refrigerant through stone chip damage or seal failure at the connections. The problem also occurs on young P24 models. Replacement including refrigerant costs 500–1,000 euros.
As with its predecessor, the 2008 II's lighting stands out above-average at inspection. The headlight levelling system and LED modules show malfunctions.
The seat heater heats insufficiently (max. around 40°C) or fails completely. The heating mat is embedded deep in the PU foam, making repairs costly. Usually only the driver's side is affected.
Door seals and tailgate sealing age and allow water ingress into the boot or footwell. Blocked drain holes under the windscreen make the problem worse.
Door trim clips and dashboard trim panels work loose and produce rattles on poor road surfaces. PSA EMP2 platform issue. Replacing clips is often only a temporary fix.
