Peugeot 408 Problems: Common Issues and Repair Costs
The Peugeot 408 is a sleek and modern mid-size car that offers comfort, style, and practicality. The latest models, including petrol and hybrid versions, have been well-received, but like any car, they do have a few issues worth knowing about. This guide breaks down the most common Peugeot 408 problems and how much they typically cost to fix.
1. Gearbox and Transmission Problems
Some owners report that the automatic gearbox can feel jerky or sluggish. In a few cases, the transmission may slip or get stuck in one gear, particularly in hybrid models.
Common symptoms:
- Hesitation when shifting
- Hard or delayed gear changes
- Transmission warning light
Repair costs:
- Gearbox oil change or software reset: £200 to £400
- Clutch or full gearbox repair: £1,500 to £3,000
It’s a good idea to get any shifting problems checked early to avoid long-term damage.
2. Electrical and Infotainment Faults
Modern Peugeot 408s rely heavily on electronic systems, and some owners have experienced the following:
- Central screen freezing or rebooting
- Radio or navigation not responding
- Faulty door or boot sensors
- Keyless entry glitches
Repair costs:
- Diagnostic and software update: £80 to £200
- Infotainment module or sensor replacement: £300 to £800
These issues can usually be fixed quickly at a dealer or independent specialist.
3. Engine Timing and Misfire Issues
Depending on the engine (petrol or hybrid), timing chains or belts can wear out earlier than expected.
Common signs:
- Engine misfire or knocking noise
- Rough idling
- Loss of power
Repair costs:
- Timing chain or belt replacement: £400 to £700
- Full engine rebuild if the timing fails: £4,000 to £6,000
Regular servicing is key to preventing expensive repairs.
4. Cooling System and Air Conditioning
Some 408s develop problems with the cooling system or AC, including:
- Poor air conditioning performance
- Coolant leaks
- Overheating during electric charging
Repair costs:
- AC compressor replacement or coolant flush: £700 to £1,200
- Charging system or socket repair (hybrids): £500 to £1,000
Hybrid owners should make sure the charging system is inspected during each service.
5. Suspension and Body Trim Issues
Although generally solid, some drivers have mentioned small build-quality issues, such as:
- Rattling noise from rear suspension or interior panels
- Loose hatchback latches
- Door seals coming away
Repair costs:
- Suspension bushings or drop links: £150 to £400
- Boot latch or door lock fix: £200 to £500
These are minor but can affect overall comfort and daily use.
6. Servicing and Maintenance Costs
Routine servicing on the Peugeot 408 is affordable, especially when compared to German rivals.
- Basic oil and filter service: £200 to £350
- Full service with plugs and fluids: £400 to £600
- Hybrid service with battery check: £450 to £650
Using a good independent garage can save you money compared to main dealers.
Real Owner Feedback
Many owners online are happy with the 408 but mention the same recurring issues:
“Transmission gets weird sometimes. Dealer said it was a software update, and it helped.”
“Infotainment screen locked up twice in the first six months. Got a free update, and it’s been fine since.”
From forums and community reviews, the biggest reported issues are gearbox responsiveness, timing-related noises, and screen reboots.
Peugeot 408 Repair Cost Summary (UK)
| Problem | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Transmission service or reset | £200 to £400 |
| Gearbox or clutch repair | £1,500 to £3,000 |
| Infotainment or sensor fix | £300 to £800 |
| Timing belt or chain replacement | £400 to £700 |
| Full engine rebuild (timing fail) | £4,000 to £6,000 |
| AC or cooling repair | £700 to £1,200 |
| Hybrid charging fix | £500 to £1,000 |
| Suspension or latch repair | £150 to £500 |
| Annual servicing | £200 to £600 |
Tips for Peugeot 408 Owners
- Check gearbox response regularly, especially in hybrid models. A small delay now can turn into a bigger issue later.
- Always update your infotainment system at service intervals. Many bugs are fixed through software.
- Stick to service schedules for timing chains or belts. These are critical to avoid major engine damage.
- Inspect your car’s charging socket and AC system, especially before summer or long trips.
- Budget around £500 to £1,000 per year for maintenance and repairs once out of warranty.
Final Thoughts
The Peugeot 408 is a well-rounded car with modern styling, good interior tech, and strong efficiency. While not perfect, most of its common problems are manageable with proper maintenance. By staying on top of servicing and addressing faults early, you can avoid major expenses and enjoy reliable ownership.
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