Peugeot 508 Problems: Common Issues and Repair Costs
The Peugeot 508 is a stylish and well-equipped executive car, available as a saloon or estate and offered in petrol, diesel, and hybrid powertrains. While it’s generally reliable and popular among European drivers, it does come with its own set of common problems. Here’s a full breakdown of the most reported Peugeot 508 issues and the typical UK repair costs.
1. AdBlue Tank and Emission Faults
Diesel Peugeot 508 models often face issues with the AdBlue tank system, especially after 80,000 to 100,000 miles.
Typical issues:
- AdBlue warning light that won’t clear
- Reduced engine performance
- Tank or pump failure
Repair cost: £1,500 to £1,800
This is a known issue on many modern Peugeot diesels. Some owners report repairs covered under goodwill if the car is dealer-serviced.
2. Timing Belt and Timing Chain Failures
Timing Belt (mostly diesel)
If not replaced on time, the timing belt can snap and cause major engine damage.
Repair cost:
- Timing belt and water pump: £600 to £1,200
- Full engine rebuild if belt fails: £3,000 to £4,000
Timing Chain (some petrol models like 1.5 BlueHDi)
Stretching or chain rattle can occur with poor oil maintenance.
Repair cost:
- Timing chain and tensioner: £400 to £700
- Engine rebuild if chain breaks: £3,000 to £6,000
Replace timing belts early to reduce the risk of serious damage.
3. Alternator Belt and PHEV Hybrid System Problems
On plug-in hybrid (PHEV) 508 models, alternator drive belts have failed due to poor alignment or tension.
Common symptoms:
- Sudden loss of power
- Hybrid drivetrain warning
- Charging or alternator failure
Repair cost:
- Belt or tensioner: £150 to £400
- If damage spreads to other components: £500 to £1,000 extra
This is more common on early PHEV versions or if maintenance is delayed.
4. Infotainment System and Electronics
Owners of older and newer 508s alike report issues with the infotainment screen and sensors.
Typical problems:
- Screen freezing or going blank
- Parking sensor faults
- Glitches in digital dashboard
Repair cost:
- Software update: £80 to £200
- Replacement of faulty module or display: £200 to £600
These problems are usually resolved with firmware updates or hardware swaps.
5. Transmission Hesitation (Hybrid and Auto Models)
Some 508 PHEV and automatic models have rough or jerky shifting, particularly in low-speed stop-start traffic.
Repair cost:
- Transmission fluid change or software update: £250 to £400
- Full transmission repair or replacement: £1,500 to £3,000
Although not common on all cars, it’s something to test thoroughly on a test drive.
6. Regular Servicing Costs
Peugeot offers fixed-price servicing on many 508 models.
Typical annual service costs:
- Interim service: £250 to £350
- Full service (with filters and fluids): £400 to £600
- Hybrid servicing with battery check: £450 to £700
Using an approved Peugeot specialist often helps keep costs reasonable and warranty valid.
7. Brake and Suspension Wear
Brakes and suspension components are common wear items on the 508.
Typical costs:
- Front brake pads: £100 to £130
- Rear pads: £60 to £90
- Brake discs: £250 to £350 (full set)
- Shock absorbers: £100 to £200 per corner
Noise from the front suspension or a spongy brake pedal are signs to get parts checked.
8. Climate Control and Wiper Faults
Some owners have experienced climate system faults or wiper motor problems.
Repair costs:
- Climate control or AC compressor: £300 to £500
- Wiper motor or linkage repair: £150 to £300
These are minor but can be annoying without a proper fix.
Peugeot 508 Common Repair Cost Summary (UK)
| Problem | Estimated Repair Cost |
|---|---|
| AdBlue tank and pump | £1,500 to £1,800 |
| Timing belt and water pump | £600 to £1,200 |
| Timing chain and tensioner | £400 to £700 |
| Engine rebuild (belt/chain fail) | £3,000 to £6,000 |
| Alternator belt/tensioner | £150 to £400 |
| Additional PHEV belt repairs | £500 to £1,000 |
| Infotainment software update | £80 to £200 |
| Dashboard or module replacement | £200 to £600 |
| Transmission fluid/service | £250 to £400 |
| Transmission replacement | £1,500 to £3,000 |
| Annual servicing | £300 to £600 |
| Brake pads and discs | £100 to £350 |
| Suspension repairs | £100 to £800 |
| Air conditioning repair | £300 to £500 |
| Wiper system fix | £150 to £300 |
Owner Feedback and Advice
- AdBlue issues are very common on diesel models between 80k and 100k miles.
- Timing belt failure has occurred before the scheduled interval for some drivers.
- PHEV drive belts are a known weak spot in early models and need to be checked regularly.
- Infotainment updates help resolve most screen glitches.
- Many owners report that the 508 is reliable when serviced on time and driven regularly.
Tips for Peugeot 508 Owners
- Replace timing belts early, especially on diesel engines.
- Check AdBlue levels regularly and monitor for pump warnings.
- For PHEV models, inspect the alternator belt and keep drivetrain software up to date.
- Book dealer software updates during annual servicing to avoid dashboard bugs.
- Use a Peugeot specialist for better rates on regular repairs.
Final Thoughts
The Peugeot 508 is a good-looking, well-equipped family and executive car. While generally reliable, the diesel and hybrid models require attention to specific components like AdBlue systems, timing belts, and electrical updates. With good maintenance, it can deliver years of stylish and comfortable driving.
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