Used Peugeot 308 2013-2021 reliability
Category: Family car
The 308 is good value used and relatively frugal, but it falls short of its best rivals to drive and space in the rear is tight.
What should I look for in a used Peugeot 308 hatchback?
When viewing a used car, always follow our used car buying checklist.
Seeing as the 308 is a family hatchback, it’s worth checking the seats for wear and tear and ease of operation. And the car may have been used in tight urban car parks, so it’s worth checking the bodywork for scuffs and bumps and the alloy wheels for any kerb damage.
What are the most common problems with a used Peugeot 308 hatchback?
Recalls
There have been a few recalls for the 308 over the years. There have been two issued for 308s produced between 24/08/15 and 11/11/2015 for doors that might not latch or open unexpectedly. For 308s built between 02/10/13 and 04/04/17, there was a recall for starter motor wires that can chafe. Vehicles fitted with the 1.6-litre diesel engine built between 10/10/17 and 30/11/17 were recalled because some of the components in the engine might not be to specification. Cars built between 27/10/14 and 27/03/15 can overheat and require a software update. And there was a recall for a few hundred cars built in November 2017 because their airbags might not deploy in a crash.
DPF issues
Diesel models' diesel particulate filter (DPF) can also give problems, with a fault light appearing on the dashboard and the car refusing to start. Some owners also complain of manual gearbox problems, leaving the car stuck in neutral.
Electrical issues
Electrical issues could also crop up, so check that all switches and controls work correctly.
Click here for more information. Contact your local Peugeot dealer if you believe your vehicle is involved in a recall.
Is a used Peugeot 308 hatchback reliable?
Our data suggests the 308 is a reliable car, but averagely so. The 308 scored a good reliability score in our 2022 What Car? Reliability Survey, with most major problems revolving around the non-engine electrics. On newer cars, these faults were usually fixed under warranty within a week. It finished in 11th position out of 37 cars in the family car class.
In our 2023 survey, Peugeot, as a car brand, finished a lacklustre 21st place out of 32 manufacturers in that same reliability survey.
If you'd like to see the full reliability list for family cars, head to the What Car? Reliability Survey pages for more information.
