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Peugeot · Known Issues

2012 Peugeot 308 Problems: 5 Known Issues

2012 model year · 175+ owner reports · Updated September 2026

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Issue summary

According to Au7o's analysis of 175+ owner reports, the 2012 Peugeot 308 has 5 documented known issues, with 3 rated critical. The most serious are DPF Regeneration Failure ($200-$2,500 repair), 1.6 THP/VTi (EP6 'Prince') Timing Chain Stretch and Cold-Start Rattle ($800-$2,000 repair) and 1.6 HDi (DV6) Turbocharger Failure from Oil Starvation and Sludge ($1,200-$2,600 repair). Across all issues with published estimates, repair costs range from $200 to $2,600. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.

In This Article

  • 308 Engine3
  • 308 Emissions2
  • FAQ
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In This Article

  • Engine3
  • Emissions2
  • FAQ

All 5 Known Issues

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On the 2008-2017 Peugeot 308, the PSA/BMW co-developed 1.6 'Prince' engine (EP6 VTi and EP6DT/EP6CDT THP) in the 308 I and early 308 II suffers well-documented timing chain stretch, often before 100,000 km. The original chain was too narrow for the load and the hydraulic tensioner bleeds down overnight, producing the characteristic 'death rattle' on cold start; left unaddressed the chain can skip teeth, throwing valve timing out and risking severe valve/piston damage. PSA revised the chain, tensioner and guides (brown-to-white PVC guides) around 2012-2013, and extended oil-change intervals are a known aggravating factor.

Common Symptoms

  • Metallic rattle for a few seconds on cold start
  • Constant chain rattle at idle once stretch worsens
  • Engine management light with cam/crank correlation faults
  • Rough idle and hesitation
  • Loss of power or limp mode

How to Fix

Replace the timing chain kit (chain, tensioner, guides, sprockets) with the latest revised parts as soon as rattle or cam/crank correlation faults appear — roughly $800-2,000 at an independent specialist. Shorten oil change intervals to about 6,000 miles/10,000 km with the correct low-SAPS 5W-30 to slow wear.

What you need to fix it

Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.

  • FAI TCK118VVT 144-link EP6DT-family timing-chain kit with gears

    Peugeot 308 1.6 THP where the exact engine is a listed 5FE/5FM/5FV or other supported EP6DT-family code and OE 0816.H9/9822827180/V861831780 matches.

    Lymm Engine Parts
  • FAI TCK129VVT 138-link EP6/EP6C VTi timing-chain kit with gears

    Not the turbo 144-link EP6DT branch; confirm OCVs and all hardware.

    ATP Autoteile

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.

Typical repair cost:$800 - $2,000

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Community Reported
High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Jun 2026

On the 2008-2013 Peugeot 308, the 1.6 HDi diesel in the 308 I is notorious for turbocharger failure caused by oil starvation: carbon sludge — aggravated by extended oil intervals, wrong oil spec and leaking injector seals — blocks the tiny gauze filter in the turbo oil-feed banjo bolt and the feed/return pipes, starving the turbo bearing. Documented cases show oil pressure at the turbo far below the 2.3 bar minimum, and a replacement turbo fails again quickly if the sludged feed pipes, sump and pickup are not cleaned at the same time.

Common Symptoms

  • Whining or whistling noise from the turbo
  • Noticeable loss of power / limp mode
  • Blue or grey exhaust smoke
  • Rising engine oil consumption
  • Engine management light with underboost fault

How to Fix

Replace the turbocharger together with new oil feed and return pipes and the banjo-bolt filter, drop and clean the sump and oil pickup, and flush the engine — about $1,200-2,600 all-in at an independent shop. Prevent recurrence with strictly shortened oil-change intervals using the correct low-SAPS oil and prompt attention to injector seal leaks.

Typical repair cost:$1,200 - $2,600

Research This Issue

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
Community Reported
High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Jun 2026

On the 2008-2017 Peugeot 308, because the turbocharged 1.6 THP (EP6DT/EP6CDT/EP6DTS) injects fuel directly into the cylinder, no fuel washes over the backs of the intake valves; oil vapour from the PCV system bakes onto the valves and ports as hard carbon. Deposits typically become symptomatic between 50,000 and 80,000 km, progressively restricting airflow and causing rough cold idle, cold-start misfires, poor throttle response and higher fuel consumption.

Common Symptoms

  • Rough idle, especially when cold
  • Random misfires on cold start
  • Hesitation and poor throttle response
  • Noticeable loss of power
  • Increased fuel consumption

How to Fix

Walnut-shell blasting of the intake ports and valves is the accepted fix (roughly $350-900 at independent specialists; dealer quotes can be far higher) and is worth repeating preventively every 50,000-60,000 km. Quality fuel and regular oil changes slow, but do not prevent, re-accumulation.

Typical repair cost:$350 - $900

Research This Issue

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Community Reported
High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Jun 2026
Community reported
100 owners

On the 2007-2026 Peugeot 308, the 308 diesel models experience frequent DPF regeneration failures, especially in stop-start urban driving conditions. The additive-based DPF system requires periodic Eolys fluid refills that are often overlooked during servicing.

This issue also affects: Citroen Berlingo, Citroen C4, Citroen C5 Aircross

Common Symptoms

  • DPF warning light
  • Limp mode activation
  • Failed regeneration attempts
  • Exhaust smoke during regen

How to Fix

Top up the Eolys DPF additive fluid, perform a forced regeneration, and clean the DPF pressure sensor pipes. Replace the DPF if soot loading exceeds recoverable levels.

Typical repair cost:$200 - $2,500

Research This Issue

Based on 100 owner reports

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
Community Reported
High Confidence100 owner reports
Community reported
75 owners

On the 2007-2021 Peugeot 308, the exhaust gas recirculation valve on diesel 308 models becomes clogged with carbon deposits, causing rough idle and poor performance. The electrically actuated valve sticks in the open or closed position.

This issue also affects: Citroen Berlingo, Citroen C4, Citroen C5 Aircross

Common Symptoms

  • Rough idle
  • Black exhaust smoke
  • Loss of power
  • Check engine light

How to Fix

Clean or replace the EGR valve. Install an EGR cooler bypass blanking kit if permitted in your region. Update the ECU software to revised EGR control maps.

Typical repair cost:$200 - $600

Research This Issue

Based on 75 owner reports

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
Community Reported
High Confidence75 owner reports
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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common Peugeot 308 problems?

According to Au7o's analysis of 175+ owner reports, the 2012 Peugeot 308 has 5 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: DPF Regeneration Failure, 1.6 THP/VTi (EP6 'Prince') Timing Chain Stretch and Cold-Start Rattle, 1.6 HDi (DV6) Turbocharger Failure from Oil Starvation and Sludge. Of these, 3 are rated critical and should be addressed promptly.

Is the Peugeot 308 reliable?

The 2012 Peugeot 308 has 5 known issues documented across 175+ owner reports. 3 issues are rated critical: DPF Regeneration Failure and 1.6 THP/VTi (EP6 'Prince') Timing Chain Stretch and Cold-Start Rattle and 1.6 HDi (DV6) Turbocharger Failure from Oil Starvation and Sludge. Prospective buyers should inspect for these issues and factor potential repair costs into their purchase decision. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.

How much does it cost to fix common Peugeot 308 problems?

Repair costs for known Peugeot 308 issues range from $200 to $2,600, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, DPF Regeneration Failure, typically costs $200-$2,500 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.

What is the 2007-2026 Peugeot 308 DPF Regeneration Failure?

The 308 diesel models experience frequent DPF regeneration failures, especially in stop-start urban driving conditions. The additive-based DPF system requires periodic Eolys fluid refills that are often overlooked during servicing. Repairs typically run $200-$2,500. Severity: high.

What is the 2008-2017 Peugeot 308 1.6 THP/VTi (EP6 'Prince') Timing Chain Stretch and Cold-Start Rattle?

The PSA/BMW co-developed 1.6 'Prince' engine (EP6 VTi and EP6DT/EP6CDT THP) in the 308 I and early 308 II suffers well-documented timing chain stretch, often before 100,000 km. The original chain was too narrow for the load and the hydraulic tensioner bleeds down overnight, produ… Repairs typically run $800-$2,000. Severity: high.

Content on this page was compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, owner reports, and public automotive data. While we strive for accuracy, this information may contain errors. Always verify repair procedures and specifications with your vehicle's service manual or a qualified mechanic.

Data sourced from 175+ owner reports, NHTSA recalls, TSBs, and automotive forums.

What is the 2008-2013 Peugeot 308 1.6 HDi (DV6) Turbocharger Failure from Oil Starvation and Sludge?

The 1.6 HDi diesel in the 308 I is notorious for turbocharger failure caused by oil starvation: carbon sludge — aggravated by extended oil intervals, wrong oil spec and leaking injector seals — blocks the tiny gauze filter in the turbo oil-feed banjo bolt and the feed/return pipe… Repairs typically run $1,200-$2,600. Severity: high.

What is the 2007-2021 Peugeot 308 EGR Valve Failure?

The exhaust gas recirculation valve on diesel 308 models becomes clogged with carbon deposits, causing rough idle and poor performance. The electrically actuated valve sticks in the open or closed position. Repairs typically run $200-$600. Severity: medium.

What is the 2008-2017 Peugeot 308 1.6 THP Intake Valve Carbon Buildup (Direct Injection)?

Because the turbocharged 1.6 THP (EP6DT/EP6CDT/EP6DTS) injects fuel directly into the cylinder, no fuel washes over the backs of the intake valves; oil vapour from the PCV system bakes onto the valves and ports as hard carbon. Deposits typically become symptomatic between 50,000… Repairs typically run $350-$900. Severity: medium.