Peugeot 408 1.6 Hybrid 180 PHEV Mk1

Multiple recalls affect the 408 and related Stellantis models (308, 3008, 5008) built between February 2023 and April 2025. A weakness in the crimping interface of the quick coupling connector on the high-pressure fuel pump can cause fuel to leak into the engine bay. Over 370,000 vehicles worldwide were affected across multiple Stellantis brands (recall code MXZ). Engine fires were reported in France before the recall was issued. The fix involves retightening or replacing fuel line connections and takes less than 30 minutes at a dealer. This is a free recall repair, but verifying completion is critical before purchasing any used 408.

A widely reported firmware issue across the Peugeot i-Connect system. Some 408 owners report the screen going black almost every other day during early ownership. Since the 408 relies heavily on the touchscreen for climate control and many vehicle functions, a blackout is more disruptive than on cars with physical controls. Peugeot acknowledges this as a known firmware problem. Software updates at service visits usually resolve or reduce the frequency. A temporary workaround involves holding down the phone button for 10 seconds to force a reboot. If updates do not resolve the issue, the head unit itself may need replacement, costing around €300-400 for parts plus labor.

The electrified e-EAT8 (Aisin 8-speed with integrated electric motor) can exhibit noticeable jerks when decelerating before stops or when transitioning between electric and combustion power. Some owners report the gearbox remaining stuck in first gear after climbing inclines, causing high RPMs until about 28 km/h. Valve spool deposits and outdated transmission software are common causes. A firmware update for the gearbox ECU typically resolves the jerky behaviour. Aisin recommends transmission fluid changes at 60,000 km intervals despite the official claim of sealed-for-life filling. In rare cases where internal components are affected, a specialist Aisin EAT8 rebuild runs approximately €3,000-5,000.

The 12.4 kWh battery can lose capacity over time. Some Peugeot PHEV owners report their electric range dropping from the claimed 55 km to under 30 km within a few years, and in winter conditions, range can fall to as low as 20-25 km. Heavy use of cabin heating is the main drain. The traction battery is covered by Peugeot's 8-year / 160,000 km warranty with a 70% capacity guarantee. If the battery drops below 70% within warranty, Peugeot covers replacement. Outside warranty, a replacement battery costs approximately €7,000-8,000 including labor based on similar Stellantis PHEV models. A dealer can read the battery state-of-health via diagnostics.

Peugeot issued a recall (code MGY) for 408 models manufactured between 17 February and 3 May 2023. A faulty calibration of the temperature sensor on the Mode 2 charging cable means the safety function may fail to prevent overheating, creating a fire risk during charging. Around 7,838 vehicles were affected worldwide across the 308, 408, and 508 PHEV models. The remedy involves inspection and replacement of the charging cable at no cost. Verify this recall has been completed before purchasing any early-production 408 PHEV.

The 12V auxiliary battery supports all vehicle electronics and is charged by the engine alternator, not the traction battery. If the 12V battery drops below approximately 80% charge, the car may restrict electric-only driving, trigger hybrid system warnings, or fail to start. Owners who drive short distances infrequently or leave the car parked for extended periods are most affected. The 12V battery in the Stellantis PHEV system is located in the boot and costs €150-250 for replacement plus around €50-100 for fitting. Keeping the car plugged in or using a trickle charger during long parking periods helps prevent this issue.

Some 408 PHEV owners report that the electric motor intermittently fails to work, particularly when cold. The car then runs exclusively on the petrol engine, losing the efficiency benefit of the hybrid system. Turning the car off and restarting after about 10 minutes sometimes temporarily resolves the issue. The cause is typically a software or sensor fault in the hybrid control module rather than a hardware failure. Diagnosis and software recalibration at a dealer costs around €200. In rare cases where the electric motor control unit needs replacement, costs can reach €2,000-2,500.