Stylish French executive sedan with excellent interior quality and competitive pricing. The 2.0 BlueHDi is a proven engine that's more reliable than the 1.6, but requires proper maintenance. Main concerns center on emissions systems: AdBlue/urea system failures (expensive tank replacement), DPF clogging from short trips, and Eolys fluid depletion. Electronic parking brake, infotainment screen glitches, and suspension bushings also need monitoring. The EAT8 automatic is generally reliable but benefits from fluid changes despite "lifetime" claims. Timing belt replacement is critical at 160,000 km.
Expected Annual Maintenance Costs
€900 - €1,800/year
15,000 km/year
Fixed costs
€550-900
Risk buffer
€350-900
What Can Break
bars = likelihood
AdBlue/urea system failure€800 - €2,000
AdBlue pump integrated into tank fails due to PCB contamination, crystallized injector · more· less
Known issue affecting 2.0 BlueHDi engines built 2014-2018. Peugeot dealerships report averaging two AdBlue faults per day. Common causes include pump failure (integrated into tank - cannot be purchased separately), crystallized AdBlue injector, and NOx sensor faults. Symptoms: "Engine fault" warning, "Urea emissions fault", countdown timer warning vehicle will not start. Typical failure occurs around 80,000-100,000 km. Pressure sensor replacement costs €40-150, but full tank replacement runs €800-2,000. Some dealers offer manufacturer contribution (up to 75%) on this known issue - ask before paying. Error codes P20E8 (pressure too low), P20F6 (leakage/high pressure) are typical.
DPF clogging and regeneration issues€800 - €2,500
Eolys fluid depletion, pump failure, DPF blocking from short trips · more· less
The DPF system uses Eolys fluid (diesel additive) metered by a pump. Common issues: Eolys tank/pump failure (€800 for refill + new pump), partially blocked DPF from insufficient regeneration, and battery voltage causing false DPF warnings (replace battery if below 11.x volts). DPF recall affected builds 01/04/2019 - 15/07/2019 due to filter not meeting specifications. Replacement DPF costs €800-1,000, plus labor. Short-trip driving (10-20 km) causes frequent clogging and limp mode. Regular motorway runs help. DPF pressure sensor pipes can crack from engine movement, causing false pressure readings (€30-50 parts). Always reset DPF mileage counter after replacement.
Timing belt failure€800 - €4,000
Belt drives rear cam, chain connects to front cam internally - replace at 160,000 km · more· less
The 2.0 BlueHDi uses both timing belt and chain. Belt drives rear camshaft, which connects via internal chain to front cam. Peugeot recommends replacement at 160,000 km or 10 years, but failures occur around 100,000 km. If belt snaps: valves typically don't bend, but rockers may snap (16 rockers @ €10 each). Timing belt kit replacement costs €800-1,200 at specialist, €1,200-1,600 at dealer. If rockers fail, add €160-300 for parts plus cylinder head removal labor (€600-1,200). Rockers also wear naturally around 200,000 km - chain can be replaced during head-off service. Never skip this service.
Electronic parking brake failure€15 - €1,500
Water ingress via emergency release cable damages brake module · more· less
Common on 508s of this age. Water seeps into EPB unit via emergency release cable access. Symptoms: "Parking brake fault - have vehicle repaired" message, brake won't release/apply. Before expensive repairs, check: 1) Battery voltage (low voltage triggers false warnings), 2) 20-amp fuse (many owners fixed by replacing fuse - costs €2), 3) ABS wheel sensor wire (broken wire shows as EPB fault). Parking brake switch: €13 (Amazon), 5-min DIY fix. If actual motor failure: brake caliper repair €400-600, full EPB module €1,200-1,500. Early models had software issues - dealer update may resolve (free if under warranty).
Suspension bushing wear and noise€300 - €800
Rear subframe bushings, drop links, upper shock mounts cause knocking/squeaking · more· less
The 508 has a complicated rear suspension assembly. Common failures: rear subframe bushings (€74 each x 4 = €296 parts, plus labor €200-300), front drop links (characteristic rumble/wobble over bumps, €40-80 per side), and upper shock absorber support dislocation (1-2mm displacement affects ride comfort). Builds Oct 2019 - Jan 2020 had recall for incorrect rear suspension fixing bolts. Bushings typically need replacement around 100,000 km. Noise often worse when cold. Knocking from front suspension may be drop links (disconnect and test drive to confirm). Always use Peugeot specialist for diagnosis - general mechanics struggle without proper suspension jigs.
Infotainment screen failure€200 - €1,000
Screen goes black, intermittent failure, SD card or backlight fault · more· less
Constant problem across 508 ownership forums. Screen powers up then goes black after a few minutes, or fails to start at all. Radio still works but navigation and essential functions inaccessible. Causes: failing SD card inside unit, backlight failure (battery-related), or main screen module fault. Solutions: 1) Reboot system (hold phone button 10+ seconds), 2) Firmware update (free at dealer during service - always request this), 3) SD card replacement (DIY), 4) Used screen from eBay €200 (search "PEUGEOT 508 CITROEN DS5 CENTRAL INFO DISPLAY"), 5) Dealer replacement €1,000. Try software update first before replacing hardware.
Torque converter shudder, harsh engagement, valve body failure on high-mileage units · more· less
The Aisin EAT8 8-speed automatic is generally reliable compared to older PSA gearboxes. Issues: torque converter shuddering/slipping (replacement required), harsh "bang" when selecting Drive from Park/Neutral (common, may be normal), valve body failure (€1,200 for part). Peugeot claims "sealed for life" but enthusiasts recommend ATF change at 50,000 km using AW-2 specification fluid (€120-300 for double flush, massive difference in smoothness). Manual gearbox is significantly more reliable. Holds 8L AW-2 fluid, drains ~2.4L per flush. Compatible fluids: Ravenol ATF T-ULV, Liqui Moly Top Tec 1850.
Water pump/thermostat housing failure€600 - €1,200
Electric water pump integrated with thermostat fails 70,000-100,000 km · more· less
The 2.0 BlueHDi uses an electric water pump integrated with thermostat housing (expensive design). Typical failure: 70,000-100,000 km. Symptoms: coolant warning light, engine overheating, poor cabin heating. Parts cost €400-500 due to integrated electric pump design. Labor 6 hours (€300-600) due to poor accessibility in engine bay. Total dealer cost €900-1,200, specialist €600-900. Preventive replacement not economical - replace on failure. Check coolant level regularly; low coolant or brown/milky appearance indicates head gasket or pump issues.
Reasonably reliable if maintained, but emissions systems need attention
The Peugeot 508 Mk2 with 2.0 BlueHDi is a solid executive car when properly maintained. The engine itself is proven and more reliable than the problematic 1.6. Main costs come from emissions compliance systems (AdBlue, DPF, Eolys) which are complex and expensive when they fail. Avoid if you only do short trips. Regular motorway driving and using quality diesel helps keep DPF healthy. Electrical gremlins (infotainment, parking brake) are annoying but usually cheaper to fix than advertised. Service history and regular dealer software updates are critical.
Pre-Purchase Inspection Checklist
General checks
Service history
Complete Peugeot dealer or authorized specialist records essential. Look for evidence of timing belt replacement if near 160,000 km.
Tires
Check tread depth, age (date codes), uneven wear patterns. Common sizes: 235/45 R18 or 225/55 R17.
Cold start
Must start engine completely cold. Listen for unusual diesel knock or AdBlue system warnings.
Body condition
Check for accident damage, paint mismatch. No major rust issues reported on this generation.
Test drive
Minimum 30 minutes including motorway speeds to get DPF and gearbox up to temperature.
Specific for this vehicle
Check for AdBlue/urea system warnings
Start car and watch for any "Urea emissions fault" or countdown warnings. Check AdBlue level and look for leaks around tank/pipes under rear of car. Ask if AdBlue tank has been replaced (common issue).
Test DPF regeneration status
Ask seller about driving patterns (short trips = trouble). Check for "Risk of particulate filter blocking" message. If present, walk away or negotiate heavily. DPF issues expensive.
Inspect timing belt service records
Critical - belt failure causes major damage. If approaching 160,000 km or 10 years without replacement, factor €1,000-1,600 into purchase price. Some fail around 100,000 km.
Test electronic parking brake thoroughly
Apply and release brake multiple times. Check for any warning messages. Test hill-start assist on incline. Early models had software issues - verify updates applied.
Listen for suspension noises over bumps
Drive over speed bumps and rough roads. Knocking or squeaking indicates worn bushings (€300-800 repair). Particularly common from rear subframe and front drop links.
Test infotainment screen thoroughly
Check screen powers on and stays on. Test all functions: navigation, radio, climate control, reverse camera. Screen failures common and expensive (€200-1,000).
EAT8 automatic gearbox operation (if equipped)
Drive for 20+ minutes. Feel for smooth shifts, no harsh banging, no shuddering from torque converter. Check when selecting D from P - slight clunk is normal, heavy bang is not. Ask about ATF changes.
Check coolant level and condition
Low coolant indicates water pump or thermostat housing issues (€600-1,200). Brown or milky coolant suggests head gasket problems.
Verify rear suspension recall completed (2019-2020 builds)
Cars built Oct 2019 - Jan 2020 had recall for incorrect rear suspension bolts. Contact Peugeot with VIN to verify completion.
Request software update history
Ask if dealer software updates have been applied during services. Updates fix many dashboard bugs and improve reliability.
Recalls and Technical Service Bulletins
Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) - builds 01/04/2019 to 15/07/2019Verify completed
Rear suspension fixing bolts - builds Oct 2019 to Jan 2020Verify completed
NOx emissions calibration - builds Oct 2019 to Jan 2020Verify completed
Roof rack detachment - builds up to June 2021Verify completed
Electronic parking brake software update (early models)Check with dealer
Contact a Peugeot dealer with the VIN to verify all recalls completed. The DPF recall (2019 builds) and suspension bolt recall (late 2019/early 2020) are particularly important. There are currently 13 safety recalls on record for the 508 family - always verify with VIN.
Warranty Status
Factory warranty (3 years / 60,000 miles)Expired on most 2018-2020 models
Extended warranty availableUp to 10 years / 100,000 miles
AdBlue system (known issue)Some dealers offer manufacturer contribution
Standard Peugeot warranty is 3 years with unlimited mileage in first 2 years, 60,000 miles in year 3. Most 2018-2020 508s are now outside factory warranty. Extended warranty available from Peugeot dealers if car is under 10 years old and under 100,000 miles. For AdBlue tank failures, ask dealer about manufacturer contribution (some report up to 75% coverage on this known issue). Always maintain service history at Peugeot network to maximize warranty claim chances.
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.