Peugeot 408 1.6 Hybrid 225 PHEV Mk1

Multiple recalls have been issued for the 408 and related Stellantis models (308, 3008, 5008) built between February 2023 and May 2024. 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. Eleven 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. Over 370,000 vehicles worldwide were affected across multiple Stellantis brands. 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. A firmware update for the gearbox ECU typically resolves the jerky deceleration issue. In rare cases where internal components are affected, a full Aisin EAT8 rebuild runs approximately €5,000 at a specialist, while complete replacement can reach €12,000-13,000. Most cases are resolved through software updates at no cost under warranty.

The 12.4 kWh (pre-facelift) or 16.2 kWh (post-2025 facelift) battery can lose capacity over time. Some Peugeot PHEV owners report their battery dropping from 33 miles to 16 miles of electric range within a few years. Heavy use of cabin heating in winter exacerbates range loss, with some owners seeing only 17 miles on a cold morning versus the claimed 40 miles. 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, replacement costs approximately €7,000-8,000 plus labor based on similar Stellantis PHEV models.

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.

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.

Isolated reports of the adaptive cruise control system misreading road signs (displaying incorrect speed limits) or failing to operate. The radar unit behind the front grille can be affected by dirt, ice buildup, or sensor degradation. Recalibration costs around €150-300 at a dealer. If the ARTIV radar module itself needs replacement, expect €500-1,500 including calibration. This is not a widespread issue but worth checking during a test drive.