Peugeot 508 I (8D) (2010 – 2018)

Reliability score : 6.5/10

The first-generation Peugeot 508 (internal code name W2, 8D for the sedan, 8E for the SW estate) had the challenging task of simultaneously replacing the 407 and 607. It marked a significant move upmarket for Peugeot with a refined finish, excellent sound insulation, and imperial road handling, true to the brand's reputation (double wishbone front suspension on GT versions, pseudo-MacPherson on others). Restyled in 2014, it modernized its front end and updated its engines to meet Euro 6 standards. While its road qualities are undeniable, its overall reliability was heavily tarnished by the misfortunes of the first-generation "Prince" petrol engines (1.6 THP) and, later, by the BlueHDi diesel emission control systems.

✅ Strengths

Exceptional road handling (especially in GT version with decoupled front axle)
Very refined sound insulation, worthy of the upper segment
Finish quality and aging of interior materials
Generous boot volume on the SW (estate) version
Remarkable mechanical reliability of 2.0 HDi engines (excluding AdBlue system)
Driving pleasure and reliability of the 1.6 THP 165 (post-2014)

⚠️ Weaknesses

Disastrous reliability of the 1.6 THP 156 hp (timing, HP pump)
Recurring and costly problems with AdBlue tanks (BlueHDi)
BMP6 / ETG6 automated manual gearbox slow, jerky, and fragile
RT6 multimedia system (pre-2014) slow and prone to failures
Average rear passenger space for its size (sedan)
Lack of practical storage in the cabin

🎯 Verdict

The Peugeot 508 I is an excellent road car, but its reliability record is very mixed depending on the engine chosen. If you are looking for a petrol engine, absolutely avoid the 1.6 THP 156 hp and the 1.6 VTi 120 hp, whose timing chain failures and oil consumption issues can ruin your budget. You must opt for a restyled version equipped with the 1.6 THP 165 hp, which is infinitely more reliable and very pleasant to drive. For diesel, the older 2.0 HDi (140/163) are monsters of robustness. The more recent BlueHDi versions are mechanically excellent but require budgeting for the inevitable AdBlue tank replacement. Avoid the BMP6/ETG6 automated manual gearboxes in favor of manual or EAT6 automatic gearboxes.

Common issues

Problèmes de chaîne de distribution (moteurs 1.6 THP) High

🔧 60 000 – 120 000 km

💶 800 – 1 500 €

Écouter les bruits de claquement au démarrage, vérifier l'historique d'entretien.

Défaillance de la pompe haute pression (HPFP) (moteurs 1.6 THP) Medium

🔧 80 000 – 150 000 km

💶 400 – 800 €

Attention aux démarrages difficiles, pertes de puissance ou voyant moteur.

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

🔧 80 000 – 150 000 km

💶 300 – 700 €

Peut causer des pertes de puissance et une surconsommation. Un décalaminage peut être nécessaire.

Problèmes de turbo (moteurs 1.6 THP) Medium

🔧 100 000 – 180 000 km

💶 800 – 1 800 €

Surveiller les sifflements anormaux, la fumée bleue ou la perte de puissance.

Estimated maintenance costs

Oil change	£70 – 130
Timing chain	£700 – 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.