Used Peugeot 208 (Mk1, 2012-2019) - What should you look for?

Reliability-wise, the first-gen Peugeot 208 doesn’t have the best reputation, so do consider that if you’re looking at older or higher mileage examples. The car has also been subject to a number of recalls, and examples of common faults that affect the 208 Mk1 have been listed below.

Common Peugeot 208 Mk1 problems

Touchscreen glitches

Sometimes, the touchscreen multimedia system can freeze and stop working. Switching the touchscreen off and on again is usually able to fix this.

Wiper issues

When activated, the wipers can start juddering across the windscreen. The most effective fix appears to be swapping the wiper blades for Bosch items.

Boot rattles

Annoying rattles can emanate from the rear of the car when you’re driving – these will most likely be caused by the boot latch, the parcel shelf or the spare wheel retainer.

Leaky rear window pipe

The washer fluid pipe for the rear window can leak, allowing water to squirt into the boot. A DIY fix is possible, but it’s a fiddly job.

Steering wheel

While not an issue per se, the small steering wheel divides opinion – for some, its low-set position means the wheel rim can obscure the instrument display. Whether this will affect you will depend on factors like your preferred driving position.

Recalls

The Peugeot 208 has had quite a few recalls over its life – no fewer than 20, to be exact. The first was issued in July 2012 to rectify a faulty bonnet catch latch, and the most recent recall arrived in October 2019 to stop the engine emitting excessive amounts of NOx due to the engine management software calibration. Other Peugeot 208 Mk1 recalls include fixes for fuel and engine oil leaks, ESP and anti-lock braking system failures, defective tailgate struts and collapsing front suspension systems.