About the Engine
The Peugeot 308 with the 1.6 HDi engine (DV6, 90 or 110 HP) is a regular visitor to our workshop. The engine was developed together with Ford (the same block is used in the Focus 1.6 TDCi) and is generally a reliable unit. But French electronics and some particular engineering choices bring a few problems that owners need to be aware of.
Typical Faults
1. Turbo Actuator
Symptom: Power loss, car will not pull above 3,000 RPM, check engine light.
This is the most common fault on this engine. The vacuum actuator that controls the turbo geometry wears out or its diaphragm tears. The result is that the turbo cannot regulate boost pressure properly. Replacing just the actuator is relatively cheap (100-150 KM for the part), but access to the turbo is awkward. Some mechanics replace the entire turbo, but an experienced technician can swap just the actuator.
2. Oil Leaks
Symptom: Oil stains under the car, burning smell, low oil level.
The Peugeot 308 has several known leak points. The rocker cover gasket fails, especially after 100,000 km. The oil feed pipe to the turbo also leaks, and that is more serious because the turbo can end up starved of lubrication. The oil filter housing seals are another common spot. All of these should be fixed as soon as they are noticed.
3. DPF Filter
Symptom: DPF light flashing, power loss, smell of fuel in the oil.
The same story as every modern diesel: city driving kills the DPF. The specific issue with the Peugeot is that failed regeneration cycles dilute the engine oil with fuel. Check the oil level. If it is above maximum, fuel has gotten into the oil and you need an urgent oil change before the bearings are damaged.
4. Injector Seals (Copper Washers)
Symptom: Characteristic hissing from the engine, black deposits around the injectors, smell of exhaust gases.
The copper injector washers allow exhaust gases to blow back into the engine bay. You can recognize it by the black deposits around the injector bores. The repair is fairly straightforward: clean the seats and fit new copper washers. But if the problem is neglected, the soot can damage the injector bore itself, making the repair more expensive.
5. Thermostat
Symptom: Engine warms up slowly, cabin heater is weak, fuel consumption rises.
The thermostat on the DV6 engine sticks open. The engine never reaches operating temperature, the heater does not work properly, and fuel consumption goes up. The replacement is simple and cheap, but many owners do not notice the problem because the symptoms are not dramatic.
6. Suspension - Worn Bushings and Silent Blocks
Symptom: Knocking over bumps, loose front end, uneven tire wear.
The front suspension bushings and stabilizer links wear faster than they should. The Peugeot 308 is not the most rugged car for our roads. At 80,000-100,000 km, expect to replace bushings and sometimes the complete control arms.
7. ABS Sensors
Symptom: ABS warning light, ESP warning light, sometimes the brake warning light as well.
The ABS wheel sensors are sensitive to dirt and damage. The rear sensors suffer most because they are more exposed. Before replacing a sensor, clean it and check the wiring. Often the issue is a broken wire, not the sensor itself.
8. Electronic Parking Brake
Symptom: Parking brake will not release, light flashes, error message on the display.
The Peugeot 308 has an electronic parking brake that is known to cause trouble. The brake motor seizes, cables stretch, or the electronics report a fault. Repair requires a diagnostic tool because the brake has to be electrically released before the brake pads can be changed. That means even a routine pad swap needs a scan tool.
Tips for Owners
- Regularly check the oil level. The DV6 engine consumes oil and is prone to leaks.
- Drive on the open road at least 20 minutes once a week for the DPF
- Only have the brake pads changed at a workshop with a diagnostic tool
- When buying, ask for the service history and check whether the turbo has been replaced
- Do not ignore small oil leaks. They turn into big ones quickly.