Peugeot 308
Turbocharged version of the Prince engine (THP 150). Known for timing chain issues and oil consumption on early build years. Significantly improved from 2013.
Smooth and unhurried
The 140 hp automatic version of the 308 T7 is the most relaxed choice. Power is adequate, the auto shifts quietly and the chassis is comfortable. Not a driver's car — a pleasant everyday companion.
Engine Weaknesses 7
The THP 150 is notorious for timing chain stretch. The hydraulic tensioner and plastic guide rails fail early. A jumped chain risks catastrophic engine damage. The problem particularly affects vehicles produced before 2013.
Symptoms: Loud rattling/clattering on cold start, rhythmic knocking, power loss, fault codes P0016/P0017, poor cold starting
Many THP 150 engines consume alarmingly large amounts of oil from 80,000 km — sometimes 1 litre per 1,500–2,000 km. Causes are worn piston rings, turbocharger shaft seals and a defective crankcase ventilation system.
Symptoms: Oil level drops rapidly, bluish smoke under acceleration, oil smell, frequent topping up required
The twin-scroll turbocharger of the THP 150 develops housing cracks from 60,000–80,000 km. The wastegate can develop leaks and lose the ability to hold boost pressure. Full turbocharger replacement is often required.
Symptoms: Boost pressure missing, power loss, whistling noise, black/blue smoke, engine management light
High-pressure direct injection means the back of the intake valves is never washed by fuel. Oil mist and EGR form massive carbon deposits that restrict airflow.
Symptoms: Gradual power loss, rough idle, increased fuel consumption, hesitant throttle response
The HPFP on the EP6DT THP150/156 loses oil pressure through seal failure: intermittent power drops at 1,800–3,500 rpm. Fuel pressure below 40 bar = pump fault. Always replace the seal kit during repair.
Symptoms: Sporadic power drops in corners and under acceleration, fuel smell, engine warning light
Like all Prince engines the EP6DT suffers from an elevated ignition coil failure rate. Due to the turbocharger and higher cylinder pressures the coils are more highly stressed than on the naturally aspirated engine.
Symptoms: Engine juddering, power loss under load, engine management light, misfires
VVT solenoid valves fail on THP engines built before 2014, causing power loss and fault codes in engine management. Repair approx. 200–600 €.
Symptoms: Power loss, engine warning light, smooth idle but drop at mid-range revs
Vehicle Weaknesses 8
The AL4 automatic gearbox in the 308 T7 is the same unit known from the 307 and remains prone to jerky gear changes and limp mode. Defective solenoid valves and old gearbox oil are the main causes. A regular oil change every 40,000 km is recommended.
The rubber bushes on the front triangular wishbones of the 308 T7 go soft and porous relatively quickly. TÜV/MOT inspectors flag the front axle above-average frequently from the second inspection onwards. The defect rate on older examples is clearly above the class average.
The exhaust system on the 308 T7 is made from thin sheet metal and can rust through even on relatively young cars. Rust on suspension components is also a common TÜV/MOT issue.
The A/C condenser in the 308 T7 can develop leaks or be damaged by stone chips, resulting in refrigerant loss and A/C failure. The compressor itself can also be affected.
Track rod ends and steering joints on the 308 T7 wear faster than the class average. TÜV/MOT inspectors regularly flag the steering. Worn track rod ends lead to imprecise steering and are safety-critical.
The lighting system on the 308 T7 stands out above-average frequently at TÜV/MOT. Headlight alignment, bulb failures and defective rear lights are among the most commonly flagged points.
The front electric window regulators on the 308 T7 can fail. Often the window regulator motor or cable system is defective, with the driver's side more frequently affected.
Brake discs on the 308 T7 wear above-average quickly, especially in predominantly city traffic. TÜV/MOT inspectors flag brake wear more often than the class average.
