A compelling hot hatch that punches above its weight, offering 270 hp from a lightweight, heavily-modified THP engine co-developed with BMW. Fast, fun, and relatively affordable to buy used. However, the 1.6 THP engine is known for timing chain tensioner issues (cold start rattle), high pressure fuel pump failures, carbon buildup on intake valves, and ignition coil problems. The 270 model's Alcon brakes are expensive to replace. Electrical gremlins and fuel tank valve failures affect early cars. Choose a well-maintained example with full service history and avoid short-trip-only cars.
Expected Annual Maintenance Costs
€900 - €1,650/year
15,000 km/year
Fixed costs
€550-900
Risk buffer
€350-750
What Can Break
bars = likelihood
Timing chain tensioner failure€1,000 - €2,200
Chain stretches, tensioner loses pressure causing cold start rattle at 60,000-100,000 km · more· less
The THP engine's timing chain tensioner has a release valve that weakens over time, allowing oil pressure to bleed off overnight. This results in a distinctive rattle for 1-30 seconds on cold start, typically between 60,000-100,000 km. If rattle lasts more than a few seconds, the chain, guides, tensioner, and sprockets all need replacing. VW has updated the tensioner part. Ignoring this can lead to chain skip and catastrophic valve/piston contact. Repair costs: €550-900 at independent garages, up to €1,200 at dealers. Parts are cheap (tensioner ~€30), but labor is intensive (6-9 hours). Replace the full kit including guides, not just the tensioner.
Carbon buildup on intake valves€350 - €1,200
Direct injection causes carbon deposits, worse on short-trip cars, needs walnut blasting every 30,000-60,000 km · more· less
Direct injection engines inject fuel directly into cylinders, bypassing intake valves. Oil vapor from the PCV system sticks to valves and carbonizes over time. Symptoms include rough idle, hesitation, loss of power, and increased fuel consumption. Carbon buildup is faster on cars used for short trips or gentle driving. Walnut blasting (professional cleaning) typically needed between 20,000-60,000 km depending on driving style. Cost: €350-500 at BMW/Mini specialists (same engine), up to €1,200+ at Peugeot dealers. The 308 is more labor-intensive to clean than Minis. Preventive measures: use premium fuel, occasional spirited driving (Italian tune-up), fuel system cleaners.
High pressure fuel pump failure€450 - €1,200
Camshaft-driven HPFP fails causing hesitation, misfires, or complete breakdown at 40,000-120,000 km · more· less
The high pressure fuel pump can fail causing loss of power, hesitation, or complete breakdown. First sign is often slight hesitation or misfire at low engine speeds. Known issue across THP engines - BMW covers it for 8 years, but Peugeot does not. The 208 GTi HPFP has failed as low as 22,000 km. Given the higher output of the 308 GTi, the pump may work near its limits. Parts cost: €230-390 (BMW dealer cheaper than Peugeot). Labor: approximately 2 hours. Total replacement: €450-700 at independent garages, up to €1,200 at dealers. Post-2018 cars may have revised, more reliable pumps.
Fuel tank valve failure€500 - €1,800
One-way valve in tank sticks open, saturates carbon canister, causes no-start condition · more· less
Very common fault on early 308 GTis (2015-2017). Faulty one-way valve in fuel tank allows fuel into breather system, saturating carbon canister. Results in difficult starting or complete no-start. Diagnostic code typically P1338. Requires new fuel tank, canister, oil and filter change. Cost: €500-1,200 at independent shops, up to €1,800 at dealers. Many owners report Peugeot paid 50% under goodwill if out of warranty. Caught early, fuel additives (Redex) may help, but full tank replacement often needed. Diagnostic tip: if car runs better with fuel cap slightly loose, suspect tank valve issue.
Ignition coil failure€150 - €400
Coils deteriorate from heat, cause misfires, juddering, and engine warning light · more· less
The 1.6 THP generates significant heat in a compact engine bay, causing coil packs to fail prematurely. High failure rate across all THP engines. Symptoms: misfires, engine juddering, loss of power, check engine light. Water can collect around coils causing corrosion. Some owners replace coils preventively every 20,000 km. Parts cost: €10-90 per coil (4 coils total). Labor: 1-2 hours. Total replacement (all 4): €150-250 at independent garages, €300-400 at dealers. Use quality parts (Bosch, OEM) - cheap alternatives fail quickly. Often coincides with spark plug changes (recommended every 12,500 km).
Turbo wastegate actuator sticking€300 - €700
Actuator sticks from gentle driving, causes EPC light and limp mode · more· less
The turbo wastegate actuator tends to stick if car is driven too gently or only for short trips, as carbon builds up. Symptoms: EPC warning light, limp mode, loss of boost. Peugeot won't sell actuator separately - insists on full turbo replacement (€1,200-2,500). Specialist repair: actuator-only service costs €300-600. Full turbo replacement needed if internals damaged. Prevention: use premium fuel, occasional spirited driving to keep actuator moving freely. Early intervention (cleaning, freeing seized shaft with heat) can be temporary fix for €300-500.
Alcon brake system (270 model only)€900 - €3,000
Alcon pistons corrode from road salt, seize calipers, cause uneven wear - very expensive OEM parts · more· less
The 270 model has custom Alcon 4-piston brakes (380mm front, 268mm rear). Known corrosion issue: alloy pistons react with humidity, salt, and grit, causing seizure. Results in uneven rotor wear. Some owners replace pads/discs at only 16,000 km. OEM replacement through Peugeot only: €1,500-1,700 for front pads and discs, up to €2,800 if calipers also need replacing. Alternative: rebuild Alcon calipers with stainless pistons (€290 kit) + new discs/pads = €1,500 total. Or retrofit 250 model brakes (non-Alcon) for €900 - adequate for street use. Aftermarket options from Tarox, Brembo available but still €1,000+ for fronts. Not an issue on 250 model.
Suspension top mount bearing failure€150 - €400
Top strut mount bearings wear, cause clunking, squeaking over bumps and corners · more· less
Front suspension top mounts/bearings wear prematurely on 308s. Symptoms: clunking or squeaking at slow speeds, especially over bumps or when turning. Car feels less stable through corners, doesn't settle after bumps. Diagnosis: pull back scuttle trim insulation, check top mount for play. Can feel roughness by removing track rod end and turning strut. Repair: €160-250 for both sides at independent garages, €300-400 at dealers. Use quality parts (SKF, Febi, or OEM) - cheap alternatives fail within months. Relatively easy DIY job. Common issue but straightforward repair.
Clutch and dual mass flywheel (manual)€700 - €1,200
Normal wear item, typically lasts 60,000-100,000 km depending on driving style · more· less
Manual transmission clutch life depends heavily on driving style. Performance driving or aggressive launches reduce lifespan. Typical replacement interval: 60,000-100,000 km. Symptoms: slipping, difficulty engaging gears, juddering on takeoff. DMF (dual mass flywheel) often replaced with clutch due to wear. Parts cost: €200-850 depending on kit (clutch only vs. clutch + DMF + slave cylinder). Labor: 6-7 hours (not an easy job). Total cost: €700-900 at independent garages with DMF, up to €1,200 at dealers. Performance options available (Black Diamond Stage 1: €325). Generally reliable transmission if maintained.
LSD differential noise (270 model)€50 - €100
Torsen LSD 'moans' on tight turns - this is normal, can be reduced with friction modifier · more· less
The 270 model's Torsen limited-slip differential produces a moaning/groaning noise during tight turns, U-turns, or parking maneuvers. This is a characteristic of Torsen LSDs, not a fault. Severity varies between cars. Can be reduced by adding friction modifier to transmission oil or using specialized gear oil (Motul Gear 300 LS 75W90). Oil change cost: €50-100 for DIY, €150-250 at garage. Recommended at 20,000 km and 60,000 km. Complete LSD failure is rare but catastrophic - one owner reported LSD disintegration destroying gearbox, requiring full transmission replacement (€1,500-2,500). Aftermarket LSD replacements available (Quaife €900, Drexler €800) plus 8 hours labor.
Electrical issues and keyless entry€100 - €500
Keys fail requiring reprogramming, keyless entry malfunctions, DAB radio issues · more· less
General 308 electrical gremlins affect GTi models. Keyless entry can fail (weather-related according to dealers). Keys repeatedly fail meaning car won't start without reprogramming, or won't stop without holding button. Don't carry 2 keys in car simultaneously. DAB radio may need reprogramming to stay on FM. Typical costs: key reprogramming €100-200, keyless entry module €200-400, radio reprogramming €100-150. Most issues covered under warranty on newer cars. Use authorized Peugeot dealer for key/immobilizer work. Not life-threatening but frustrating intermittent issues.
Fun hot hatch with known THP engine issues - avoid neglected examples
The 308 GTi is an engaging, underrated hot hatch offering excellent value for money. The 1.6 THP engine was heavily modified by Peugeot Sport and is more robust than earlier BMW-sourced variants. However, timing chain, carbon buildup, and fuel pump issues remain inherent to the THP platform. Most problems are predictable and manageable with proper maintenance. Service history is critical - avoid cars with only short trips or infrequent oil changes. The 270 model's Alcon brakes are a significant cost consideration. Overall reliability is average for the class but requires more preventive maintenance than rivals.
Pre-Purchase Inspection Checklist
General checks
Service history
Complete Peugeot dealer or specialist records essential. Verify oil changes every 12,500 km max. Check spark plug replacements every 12,500 km.
Tires
Check tread depth, age (date codes), and uneven wear. 270 model uses 235/35R19 (expensive), 250 uses 225/40R18.
Cold start
CRITICAL: Must start engine completely cold. Listen for rattling in first 30 seconds - this indicates timing chain issues.
Body condition
Check for accident damage, paint mismatch, and rust (rare but check wheel arches).
Test drive
Minimum 30 minutes including highway speeds and full boost. Monitor for hesitation, stuttering, or warning lights.
Specific for this vehicle
Cold start timing chain rattle
Most important check. Start completely cold, listen for rattle in first 30 seconds. Any rattle longer than 2-3 seconds indicates worn tensioner/chain needing replacement (€1,000-2,200).
Engine performance and carbon buildup
Drive vigorously through rev range. Hesitation, flat spots, or lack of power suggest carbon buildup. Ask about walnut blasting service history.
Fuel system - check for P1338 code and starting issues
Scanner check for P1338 code (fuel tank valve). Ask if car has had tank valve or HPFP replaced. Test cold start multiple times.
Inspect for spark plug and coil pack replacement records
Verify plugs changed every 12,500 km as per Peugeot schedule. Check coil packs replaced if over 40,000 km. Misfires common if neglected.
270 model: inspect Alcon brakes carefully
Check brake disc condition for uneven wear. Test for seized calipers (pull to one side). Ask about brake maintenance history. Replacement very expensive.
Check for EPC warning light during test drive
Drive for 20+ minutes, test full throttle. EPC light indicates turbo wastegate actuator or boost control issues.
Suspension clunks and squeaks
Drive over bumps at low speed, turn steering lock-to-lock while stationary. Clunking indicates worn top mounts (€150-400 repair).
Manual transmission: clutch and DMF condition
Test clutch bite point consistency, listen for rattling at idle (DMF wear). Check for juddering on takeoff or slipping under load.
270 model: LSD differential noise on tight turns
Some moaning on tight turns is normal for Torsen LSD. Excessive noise or grinding indicates problems. Check transmission oil service history.
Verify tire pressure recall completed (2015 cars)
Check VIN against recall PRA 2016/15713 (defective tire valves). Also verify starter motor recall PRA 2017/16180 and brake vacuum recall.
Test keyless entry and all electrical functions
Test keyless entry multiple times, start/stop button operation. Check DAB radio, infotainment screen responsiveness. Electrical issues common.
Brake vacuum pump - timing belt material detachment (2017-2020)KGGKGH (2023)
Contact a Peugeot dealer with the VIN to verify all recalls have been completed. The brake vacuum pump recalls are particularly important for safety. Check Peugeot's official recall website for your market.
Warranty Status
Factory warranty (3 years / 60,000 miles)Expired on all 308 GTis
Peugeot extended warranty12 months, cars under 10 years / 100,000 miles
Third-party extended warranty (AA, MotorEasy)€275-400/year average
All 308 GTis (2015-2021) are now outside factory warranty. Official Peugeot extended warranty available for cars under 10 years old with under 100,000 miles - 12 month coverage only. Third-party warranties (AA, MotorEasy) offer more flexible terms (up to 120,000 miles, 12-36 month terms). Given the THP engine's known issues, extended warranty recommended if buying a higher-mileage example.
This report is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. Estimates may be inaccurate. Always have a qualified specialist inspect the vehicle before purchase. We accept no liability for decisions made based on this information.