Peugeot 3008 I (0U) (2009 – 2016)

Reliability score : 3.5/10

The first-generation Peugeot 3008 (internal code T84 / 0U) marked a major turning point for the lion brand. At the crossroads of a compact MPV, an SUV, and a sedan, it achieved immense commercial success thanks to its original interior (i-Cockpit ahead of its time with head-up display and 'aviation-style' console), excellent road holding, and comfort. It underwent a facelift (Phase 2) in late 2013, modernizing its front end and lights. However, in terms of petrol engines (which are the subject of this report), the reliability record is historically poor. The 3008 I was equipped with the notoriously problematic 'Prince' engines (1.6 VTi and 1.6 THP) co-developed with BMW, as well as the first 1.2 PureTech units at the end of its production run. These blocks accumulated major design flaws (t

✅ Strengths

Exceptional road handling (typical Peugeot comfort/dynamism compromise)
Original and appealing interior presentation (center console, i-Cockpit)
Generous boot volume (432 liters) and modularity (flat floor, 'hobby' two-part tailgate)
Excellent sound insulation on petrol versions
Remarkable reliability of 2.0 HDi engines (for those who accept diesel)

⚠️ Weaknesses

Disastrous reliability of petrol engines (VTi, THP, PureTech)
BMP6 automated manual gearbox (often paired with e-HDi or HYbrid4) slow, jerky, and unreliable
Premature tire wear (especially front and 18-inch)
Capricious electronics (obsolete WipNav GPS, head-up display bugs)
Poor rear visibility (thick pillars)

🎯 Verdict

If you are looking for a first-generation Peugeot 3008 with a PETROL engine, the verdict is clear: it's a minefield. The 1.6 VTi and 1.6 THP engines (up to 2014) are among the least reliable of their decade (timing, oil, carbon buildup). The 1.2 PureTech, which arrived late in the model's life, suffers from the notoriously problematic submerged belt issue. Buying advice: If you absolutely must buy this model with a petrol engine, look for a 1.6 THP 165 (Phase 2, 2015-2016) with an impeccable service history, or a 1.2 PureTech whose belt has just been replaced with the new model and the oil strainer cleaned. Ironically, the 3008 I is an excellent vehicle... provided you buy it with a diesel engine (2.0 HDi 150), for which it was brilliantly designed.

Common issues

Problèmes de chaîne de distribution (moteurs 1.6 THP) High

🔧 60 000 – 120 000 km

💶 800 – 1 500 €

Vérifier bruits moteur au démarrage, historique d'entretien et remplacement.

Encrassement des soupapes d'admission (moteurs 1.6 THP) Medium

🔧 80 000 – 150 000 km

💶 400 – 800 €

Surveiller perte de puissance ou à-coups. Un décalaminage régulier est recommandé.

Pompe haute pression carburant défaillante (moteurs 1.6 THP) Medium

🔧 70 000 – 130 000 km

💶 500 – 900 €

Attention aux démarrages difficiles ou au voyant moteur. Vérifier l'historique de remplacement.

Consommation d'huile excessive (moteurs 1.6 THP et VTi) Medium

🔧 Dès 50 000 km

💶 0 € (appoint régulier) à 2 000 €+ (réfection moteur si grave)

Vérifier le niveau d'huile très régulièrement et faire l'appoint si nécessaire.

Fuite du boîtier de thermostat et/ou pompe à eau (moteurs 1.6 VTi/THP) Low

🔧 80 000 – 140 000 km

💶 250 – 500 €

Surveiller le niveau de liquide de refroidissement et les traces de fuite sous le véhicule.

Estimated maintenance costs

Oil change	£70 – 130
Timing chain	£650 – 1 300
Clutch	£750 – 1 400
Complete brakes	£220 – 480
Estimated annual budget	£550 – 1 100

Indicative estimates (independent garage, UK market). Prices vary by region and year.