Exhaust & emissionsHigh
1.6 and 2.0 HDi diesel particulate filter blocking on short runs
- Typically appears
- 70,000+ miles
- What to inspect
- Check for a DPF warning light and confirm regen completes on a run
2011–2018 Peugeot 508 · common problems & known faults
A large saloon and estate aimed at company car drivers, so high mileage diesel examples need careful checks on emissions and electrical systems.
Compiled & reviewed by the VehicleFaults Research Team · last reviewed August 2026
Quick answer
The most commonly reported faults on the 2011–2018 Peugeot 508 are 1.6 and 2.0 HDi diesel particulate filter blocking on short runs, UREA warning light illuminated and emissions fault message, caused by internal failure of the AdBlue tank pump and Distinct metallic rattling noise from the top of the engine on cold start due to timing chain stretch and tensioner wear. 3 of the documented issues are rated high severity · inspect these first. Full inspection points, onset mileage and what to check are listed below.
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Build the inspection planReliability snapshot
Based on the documented faults on this page for the Peugeot 508.
4.3/ 10
- Critical
- 0
- High
- 3
- Medium
- 4
- Low
- 1
Guidance only · reflects reported patterns, not a specific car's condition.
Known faults to check
ElectricalMedium
Head-up display and multiplex electrical gremlins
- Typically appears
- Age-related
- What to inspect
- Check all dash warnings clear and test head-up display if fitted
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Build the inspection planSuspensionMedium
Front suspension bush and strut wear from motorway miles
- Typically appears
- 80,000+ miles
- What to inspect
- Listen for knocks over bumps and check for uneven tyre wear
TransmissionMedium
Automatic gearbox hesitation on higher mileage cars
- Typically appears
- 90,000+ miles
- What to inspect
- Drive through low speed gear changes and feel for hesitation or clunks
BodyworkLow
Boot lid and door seal water ingress causing damp carpets
- Typically appears
- Age-related
- What to inspect
- Check boot carpet and door sills for dampness or mould smell
Emissions system (BlueHDi models)High
UREA warning light illuminated and emissions fault message, caused by internal failure of the AdBlue tank pump.
- Typically appears
- 40,000-70,000 miles
- What to inspect
- Turn the ignition on and check the instrument cluster for the UREA light or a countdown message restricting engine starts.
Engine (1.6 THP petrol)High
Distinct metallic rattling noise from the top of the engine on cold start due to timing chain stretch and tensioner wear.
- Typically appears
- 50,000-80,000 miles
- What to inspect
- Start the engine from completely cold with the bonnet open. Listen closely to the driver side of the engine bay for a sharp metallic clatter lasting 3 to 5 seconds.
BrakesMedium
Electronic parking brake fails to release or engage smoothly, often accompanied by a dashboard warning or a groaning noise from the rear wheels.
- Typically appears
- 60,000-100,000 miles
- What to inspect
- Engage and disengage the parking brake switch multiple times while stationary. Listen for strained motor noises from the rear and ensure the dash light extinguishes promptly.
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Build my inspection planFrequently asked questions
Is the 508 a sensible high-mileage buy?
Yes if it has full service history, as it was built for motorway durability.
What should I check most carefully?
DPF health on diesels that have spent their life on short journeys.
Are electrical faults common?
Some multiplex wiring gremlins occur with age, so test every switch and warning light.
What are the timing belt replacement intervals for the HDi diesel engines?
For the 1.6 and 2.0 HDi engines, Peugeot officially recommends a timing belt and water pump replacement every 112,000 miles or 10 years under normal conditions. However, UK specialists strongly advise reducing this to 80,000 miles or 7 years to mitigate the risk of premature belt failure and severe engine damage.
How can I identify if a model has the EGC automated manual or a standard automatic gearbox?
The EGC automated manual is commonly paired with the 1.6 e-HDi engine. You can identify it by the small, stubby gear selector and steering wheel paddle shifters. True torque converter automatics have a traditional, larger PRND gear lever and offer significantly smoother gear changes at low speeds.
What specific forecourt checks are necessary for the RXH Hybrid4 diesel-electric models?
The RXH uses a rear-mounted electric motor. On the forecourt, engage ZEV mode via the centre console dial to ensure the car pulls away silently on electric power alone. If the hybrid traction battery is degraded or the system detects a fault, ZEV mode will be unavailable and default to diesel.
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.
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