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Peugeot 208: clutch problems, engine faults, and other common malfunctions
Have you ever experienced problems with your Peugeot 208? This brief guide aims to help you identify some of the most common faults and find the best solution.
Peugeot 208: Common problems
- Air conditioning problems
Some Peugeot owners report that their AC system makes a constant grinding sound after being switched on. In some cases, this occurs due to a lack of lubrication in the AC unit. If topping up your oil doesn’t work, it is likely caused by a broken compressor.
If your air con is not blowing cold air, there could be several possible causes. Common culprits include a faulty AC compressor, low refrigerant levels, AC leaks, a clogged cabin filter, and electrical faults.
FEBI BILSTEIN Top strut mount
Front Axle, Upper, with fastening/mounting material, with spring seat, with fastening material, with ball bearing, Elastomer
ELRING Gasket, cylinder head
1,4 mm, Ø: 76,3 mm, Multilayer Steel (MLS), Notches/Holes Number: 4
FEBI BILSTEIN Rocker cover
with gasket/seal
BOSCH Injector Nozzle
Common Rail (CR), with seal ring
MANNOL Automatic transmission fluid
ATF VI, 4l, red
- Thermostat problems
The thermostat is responsible for keeping the engine at the right operating temperatures by regulating the flow of coolant throughout the cooling system. When it fails, the engine is at a greater risk of overheating due to trapped coolant. At the same time, it may cause the engine to run too cold, which will have negative consequences for your fuel economy.
Common symptoms of a faulty thermostat include an illuminated ‘Check Engine’ or ‘Engine Temperature’ warning light, very high temperature gauge readings or sharp rises and drops in temperature, poor engine performance, and bubbling, gurgling, or knocking sounds. Once the problem has been diagnosed, replacing the part should do the trick. You may also need to drain and refill the cooling system, as well as check the Peugeot 208 engine oil levels.
- Engine problems
Peugeot owners often report issues with their engine oil levels or oil pressure. This is particularly the case for petrol models with 1.0/1.2L VTi/Puretech engines. It is critically important that you use the correct oil specified in the manual as otherwise the timing belt and other non-metal components could get damaged. Fragments of worn parts can also block up the engine oil supply system causing oil starvation.
- Faulty wipers
Some people complain that the factory-fitted wipers on certain 208 models judder when they are activated. This is usually due to excessive friction between the wiper blades and the glass, or dirty or sticking blades. If this happens to you, check the condition of the blades. If the rubber is worn, damaged or rough, it may be time for a replacement. If the components are dirty, give the windscreen and wipers a good clean before testing them again.
Pro tip: You can find the best deals on popular car care accessories and Peugeot 208 spare parts online.
VALEO Antifreeze
G12, yellow, 1l, Concentrate, Amine free-Phosphate free
DR.MOTOR AUTOMOTIVE Cover, oil filter housing
Ø: 86,5 mm , with gasket/seal
BOSCH Fuel filter
In-Line Filter, 8mm, 8mm
SASIC Spring Cap
Front Axle
FA1 Holding Bracket, silencer
Stainless Steel
- Turbo problems
Diesel vehicles may be more prone to turbocharger failure if they are not well maintained. For example, contaminated or old oil can lead to a buildup of carbon deposits which can eventually clog the passages of the turbocharger, causing premature wear and reducing its efficiency. The parts can also get damaged due to excessively high engine temperatures.
- Gearbox problems
For example, one of the most frequently reported manual gearbox problems is that the car struggles to shift into reverse gear. It may be difficult to engage reverse gears due to there not being a synchromesh on certain models. Sometimes lifting your foot off the clutch pedal and re-engaging helps to synchronise the gears.
In some cases, this is caused by insufficient lubrication or not using the correct gearbox oil for your Peugeot 208. Using the wrong lubricant can increase wear and expose the metal parts to thermal damage.
- Clutch problems
However, gearbox troubles are not always caused by the gears themselves but sometimes occur as a result of a bad clutch. First generation models are typically more susceptible to clutch issues. If the assembly fails, you may be unable to move your car at all. Getting the cables, hydraulic cylinders, and plates serviced on time will help prevent more costly repairs in the future.
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