EngineMedium
1.0 litre timing chain tensioner rattle on cold start
- Typically appears
- 70,000+ miles
- What to inspect
- Listen closely on a cold start for a rattling noise
2014–2022 Peugeot 108 · common problems & known faults
A city car twinned with the Citroen C1 and Toyota Aygo, cheap to run and generally reliable, but check for typical small-car wear and tear.
Compiled & reviewed by the VehicleFaults Research Team · last reviewed August 2026
Quick answer
The most commonly reported faults on the 2014–2022 Peugeot 108 are 1.0 litre timing chain tensioner rattle on cold start, Aircon compressor failing to cool effectively and High clutch biting point or slipping under load. Most reported issues are medium or low severity, but a pre-purchase inspection is still recommended. Full inspection points, onset mileage and what to check are listed below.
Turn these known faults into a step-by-step viewing plan for this exact Peugeot 108 · $9.
Build the inspection planReliability snapshot
Based on the documented faults on this page for the Peugeot 108.
6.9/ 10
- Critical
- 0
- High
- 0
- Medium
- 4
- Low
- 4
Guidance only · reflects reported patterns, not a specific car's condition.
Known faults to check
BodyworkLow
Front bumper scrapes and parking sensor damage
- Typically appears
- Age-related
- What to inspect
- Check bumpers and test any fitted parking sensors
Turn these known faults into a step-by-step viewing plan for this exact Peugeot 108 · $9.
Build the inspection planElectricalLow
Touchscreen unit freezing or losing connectivity
- Typically appears
- Age-related
- What to inspect
- Cycle through the infotainment menus and Bluetooth pairing
InteriorMedium
Aircon compressor failing to cool effectively
- Typically appears
- Age-related
- What to inspect
- Run the air con and check for cold air within a minute
SuspensionLow
Front anti-roll bar link knock over bumps
- Typically appears
- 50,000+ miles
- What to inspect
- Drive over speed bumps and listen for a knocking noise
TransmissionMedium
High clutch biting point or slipping under load
- Typically appears
- 30,000-50,000 miles
- What to inspect
- Engage third gear with the handbrake firmly applied and slowly release the clutch. The engine should stall immediately; if it revs without stalling, the clutch is slipping.
BodyworkMedium
Water pooling in the spare wheel well
- Typically appears
- 4-6 years
- What to inspect
- Lift the boot floor carpet and inspect the metal wheel well for standing water, rust stains, or dampness caused by failing rear light cluster or high-level brake light seals.
ExhaustLow
Blowing noise and heavy corrosion on the rear silencer
- Typically appears
- 40,000-60,000 miles
- What to inspect
- Kneel at the rear bumper to visually check the backbox for flaking rust. Start the engine and listen for a distinct chuffing or blowing sound from the rear.
Inspecting a Peugeot 108?
Build a tickable plan for the viewing · where to look, what a bad result means and what to ask the seller. One-off price $9.
Build my inspection planFrequently asked questions
Is the 108 a reliable used buy?
Yes, it shares reliable mechanicals with the Aygo and C1.
What should I check on the engine?
A rattly cold start suggesting timing chain tensioner wear.
Is it cheap to maintain?
Very cheap, with widely available parts shared across three brands.
Which engine is better, the 1.0 or the 1.2 PureTech?
The 1.0-litre Toyota-derived engine is generally more robust and uses a timing chain, making it ideal for short city trips. The 1.2-litre PureTech offers better motorway performance but uses a wet timing belt that requires strict oil maintenance to prevent degradation and subsequent oil starvation issues.
Are there any common issues with the automatic ETG gearbox?
The ETG automated manual gearbox can be inherently jerky and hesitant at low speeds. It is prone to premature clutch wear and actuator faults if driven heavily in stop-start traffic. Always test drive to ensure gear changes are reasonably smooth and no warning lights appear on the dashboard.
Does the fabric roof on the Top! models suffer from leaks?
The retractable fabric roof on the 108 Top! is generally watertight if maintained properly. However, the drainage channels can block with debris, leading to water ingress in the cabin. The folding mechanism can also suffer from motor failure or track misalignment, so ensure it opens and closes smoothly.
Sources & further reading
Faults are compiled from documented recalls, technical bulletins, owner reports and mechanic sources, then reviewed for accuracy. This is guidance only · not a substitute for a professional inspection.
More Peugeot models
Buying a Peugeot 108? Build a step-by-step viewing plan for this exact car · $9.
Build the plan