At the center of some Peugeot 2008 models lies the 1.2 PureTech engine, a powertrain that promises a balance of power and fuel economy without breaking your bank account. While the engine has earned praise for its performance, some owners have encountered a few challenges that sure do warrant some attention.
In this article, we delve into the Peugeot 2008 1.2 PureTech engine problems that have surfaced over time, aiming to provide insights into potential issues faced by drivers and how you can avoid these completely. From reported issues related to engine performance to concerns about reliability, we explore the common culprits affecting this well-regarded powerplant.
The most common Peugeot 2008 1.2 PureTech engine problems include timing belt problems, turbocharger issues, potential coolant leaks, and high levels of oil consumption. The 1.2 PureTech can also suffer from other issues such as software issues or occasional misfiring, but these four take the crown as the most common problems.
Now it’s time to go a bit more in-depth about all of these which means telling you what causes them and what you can do both fix and avoid them. The 1.2 PureTech is not a perfect engine by any means but you can make it better if you know what can go wrong with it and you stay on top of that.
Timing Chain Problems
If you are someone who owned or is planning to own a Peugeot with the 1.2 PureTech engine, chances are that you’ve heard about the infamous timing chain problems. These are indeed a problem and they start with the dreaded rattling noise which later causes the tensioner to fail and the timing chain to snap.
If that happens, your engine is likely going to be toast and you will need to invest in a completely new engine or a thorough engine rebuild. A check engine light can also come on intermittently, usually when you start the car up, as it indicates that the timing of the engine becomes uneven.
If you see intermittent check engine lights and you hear rattling coming from the rear of the engine, be sure to take your Peugeot to a dealership or to an experienced mechanic and start exploring the option of replacing the chain altogether.
Turbocharger Issues
A variety of minor and not so minor turbocharger-related issues, including turbo lag, can result in delayed power delivery, affecting the vehicle’s responsiveness during acceleration while also sometimes making your car too slow to join an on-ramp or a roundabout.
Additionally, some drivers have experienced reduced engine performance due to malfunctioning turbochargers or intake system leaks, causing air to escape and hampering the engine’s power output. These problems can lead to compromised fuel efficiency and overall engine performance, so much so that it can make your car barely drivable.
Leaks, worn-out components, and lack of maintenance are usually the causes, so be sure to maintain your powertrain when needed to avoid these issues from taking place.
Coolant Leaks
Coolant leaks can lead to a gradual loss of the engine’s cooling fluid, disrupting its ability to regulate temperature effectively and thus causing the engine to overheat. This can cause a sliver of internal engine component issues which may require extensive overhauls and replacements.
Owners of Peugeot 2008 1.2 PureTech models are advised to regularly inspect the cooling system for any signs of leaks and address them immediately to prevent costly repairs and ensure the engine’s proper functioning. As such, it’s important to keep an eye out on the temperature gauge and to check your car for coolant leaks whenever you can.
High Levels of Oil Consumption
Last, but certainly not least, we also need to talk about excessive oil consumption which can cause your engine to starve. Some say that these problems are caused by worn-out gaskets and seals while others believe that this is normal for the 1.2 engine.
Either way, you should first check to see if there are any leaks within the system. If not, try to monitor your engine’s oil consumption as much as you can and be sure to top it up whenever needed. If your car is still under warranty, you should take it in and ask Peugeot to deal with the problem as excessive oil consumption can hardly be considered normal.
FAQ Section
Is the Peugeot 1.2 PureTech Engine Any Good?
The 1.2 PureTech engine features advanced technology, including direct fuel injection and turbocharging, allowing it to deliver a good balance between power and fuel economy. Many drivers appreciate its responsive acceleration and smooth power delivery, making it suitable for both city driving and highway cruising but this engine is far from perfect.
The aforementioned issues, especially the ones associated with engine timing, can be so severe that they can destroy the engine completely. As such, it is widely recommended to go for a well-maintained example with all the service history such as timely oil changes if you are buying one used.
How Strong is the Peugeot 1.2 PureTech?
Typically, the power output of the Peugeot 1.2 PureTech engine ranges from around 82 horsepower (hp) for the lower-end variants to approximately 130 hp for the higher-end turbocharged versions. The engine’s strength is achieved through the use of advanced technologies such as direct fuel injection and turbocharging, which optimize fuel efficiency while providing sufficient power and torque for a satisfying driving experience.
Such numbers can hardly be viewed as anything special, but most owners agree that the 130hp model is enough for most applications as it is also very efficient and quiet.
How Long Can a Peugeot 1.2 PureTech Last?
The overall longevity of the Peugeot 1.2 PureTech depends on maintenance, servicing, driving habits, and operating conditions. If you take proper care of it, there is no reason why your 1.2 shouldn’t last more than 250,000km or even more than that.
Many of these engines are even crossing the 300,000km mark, but these have had timing chain replacements and were likely repaired many times. Either way, if you look after it, the 1.2 should be able to last a long time.
