Used Peugeot 208 2019-present reliability

Make sure to look out for dings, dents and scratches to paintwork. Check all alloys for any signs of kerbing. We’d advise test driving the 208 to make sure you can see the instrument panel comfortably over the small steering wheel.

There’s only one recall out for the 208. Just 10 vehicles are affected, so it’s unlikely you'll come across one of these, but always make sure to check it before you buy. This recall is for the steering geometry – it could be incorrectly set.

Peugeot as a manufacturer finished a fairly disappointing 19th place out of 31 in the 2024 What Car? Reliability Survey. Its score was 90.3%. That places them below BMW, Dacia and Skoda. In fact, of its obvious rivals, Peugeot only managed to finish above Audi, Mercedes and Vauxhall.

There were too few examples of the 208 for accurate data so it didn't feature in the survey. Previous 208s have had a fairly middling reliability record.

However, the 208's SUV sibling, the Peugeot 2008, did feature in the reader responses section. That car does share some of its underpinnings with the 208, and some of its engines. Here, for reference, is what the readers said about that car.

Used Peugeot 2008: owners' reliability data

As part of our Reliability Survey, owners wrote in and the feedback proved mixed about the Peugeot 2008’s reliability.

Several owners reported recurring issues with the diesel models, particularly concerning warning lights and engine noise. Faulty sensors and electrical problems were common, with some mentioning expensive repairs needed shortly after purchase. One reader highlighted a persistent problem with the AdBlue system, resulting in frequent dealership visits. On the other hand, the petrol variants received fewer complaints, with most issues being minor and resolved quickly.

However, readers noted that the response from Peugeot dealerships varied significantly. Some praised their local dealers for prompt and efficient service, while others experienced long wait times and unsatisfactory repairs. A recurring theme was the high cost of out-of-warranty repairs, which left several owners frustrated.

Every 208 gets a three-year warranty, consisting of two years of unlimited mileage cover from the manufacturer and an additional year provided by Peugeot’s UK dealer network. Kia and Hyundai offer the longest standard warranties in the class.

If you would like to see the full reliability list, head to the What Car? Reliability Survey pages for more information.