Peugeot 208 Common Problems and Solutions
AC Grinding
Problem:
A few moments after switching on the air conditioning unit, you can hear a grinding noise.
Solution:
In some cases, this is due to a lack of oil. Try topping up your oil levels first. If that doesn't alter the sound, then it is likely a faulty aircon compressor. Purchase a replacement from our parts list and swap it in.
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Aircon Compressor
Bonnet latch problems
Problem:
Some of the 208s on the market have experienced a failure with the bonnet catch, which results in the bonnet not opening or closing properly. This issue is caused by the latch not being secured correctly.
Solution:
This issue prompted a recall, so take the car to a Peugeot dealer, who will fix it free of charge.
Difficulty level
Touch screen failure
Problem:
Many other Peugeot 208 owners have experienced issues with the touch screen not functioning as it should on this car.
Solution:
The only way to resolve this issue is to take it to a Peugeot dealer and have them update the software.
Difficulty level
Reduced braking performance
Problem:
If you notice that you're having difficulty with the brakes and need to press harder on the pedal, this could be caused by air trapped in the braking system. There is a possibility that the brakes were not properly bled during manufacture.
Solution:
This problem was subject to a recall, which means you can take it to a Peugeot dealer, where they will fix the issue free of charge.
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Display screen problem
Problem:
It has been known on the 208 that the display screen shows the Peugeot loading screen, which means you can't play music or see your speed (MPG). This is due to a software fault.
Solution:
You will need to take your car to a Peugeot garage, where they should perform the software upgrade free of charge.
Difficulty level
Gearbox problems
Problem:
You may have noticed that your car is having trouble engaging into reverse gear. This is a common problem on these cars. This is caused by a lack of synchromesh.
Solution:
This problem should ease off once the car has done a few more miles, but it won't go completely as it appears to be a Peugeot design flaw. Lifting your foot off the clutch and re-engaging sometimes helps.
Difficulty level
Erratic Brake Efficiency
Problem:
The brake power on your 208 is inconsistent. Sometimes it functions properly, while at other times, the stopping distance is significantly longer.
Solution:
There's a good chance that your brake vacuum pump is faulty. This was a common issue on 208s built between 2013 and 2017, prompting Peugeot to announce a recall. In most cases where you experience erratic brake performance, the material attaching the brake vacuum pump to the timing belt has become detached. This will need to be replaced, and in some cases, you will also have to replace the vacuum pump itself and the timing belt, which you can have delivered if you order from us.
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Faulty Steering Alignment
Problem:
The steering wheel does not match the direction being travelled in.
Solution:
In most cases, this will simply involve the steering geometry being incorrectly calibrated. This was a factory error affecting 208s built between 2019 and 2020, so in most instances, Peugeot will repair it free of charge. However, if they don't, or if you'd prefer to do the work yourself, it's a straightforward process of adjusting the alignment. Additionally, if the car has been driven many miles, you might also notice that the front tyres are more worn than they should be, and you should order some from us today and replace them once they arrive.
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Tyres
Rear Wheel Arch Vibrates
Problem:
When in motion, the front wheel arch vibrates excessively.
Solution:
This is an easy fix. The problem is caused by the front wheel arch trim not meeting the required specifications. You can fix this yourself by simply adding an extra screw to the bottom of the arch. If you prefer not to do it yourself, a Peugeot dealer might offer to do it for free.
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