Used Peugeot 508

What to know before buying: Peugeot 508

From 5 video reviews, 1 forum thread and 2 press tests · updated 26/09/2026

What the reviews say

• The first-generation 2.2-litre turbodiesel GT combines strong performance with reasonable economy; its six-speed automatic is smooth, while the upgraded suspension remains stable through sharp bends.[1]one sourcePeugeot 508 (2010–2018)
• The second-generation fastback stands out for its bold styling, modern i-Cockpit, broad driving-position adjustment and predominantly soft, well-finished cabin materials.[2]one sourcePeugeot 508 II
• The 508 SW blends style with practicality: its square, well-equipped boot holds 530 litres, and the hybrid battery does not reduce that capacity.[4]one sourcePeugeot 508 II
• The low roof gives the second generation a sporty profile, but taller drivers—especially with the panoramic roof—may lack headroom, so a proper seating trial is essential.[5]one sourcePeugeot 508 II

Typical faults

• On the second-generation 1.5 BlueHDi, the 7 mm cam-to-cam chain and tensioner wear; a jump or break can severely damage the engine. The stated typical chain life is about 100,000–150,000 km.[6][8]Peugeot 508 II

  100 000–150 000 km · 2017+ · 1.5 BlueHDi (DV5)

• The 1.5 BlueHDi can seep oil around the cam carrier, cylinder head, heat exchanger and block-to-sump joint; one source reports sweating from roughly 80,000 km.[6][8]Peugeot 508 II

  80 000+ km · 2017+ · 1.5 BlueHDi (DV5)

• At around 150,000 km, the 1.5 BlueHDi heat exchanger may leak coolant into the oil; both sources describe the component as expensive and difficult to obtain.[6][8]Peugeot 508 II

  150 000–150 000 km · 2017+ · 1.5 BlueHDi (DV5)

• The first-generation 1.6 THP is prone to timing-chain stretch and tensioner trouble. Warning signs include noise, rough running and an engine fault; a jumped chain can damage the engine.[7]one sourcePeugeot 508 (2010–2018)

  2010–2018 · 1.6 THP

• The 1.6 THP can accumulate carbon in the intake, on the valves and in the combustion chambers. The source links this to power loss, higher consumption and knock that may eventually damage pistons and the engine.[7]one sourcePeugeot 508 (2010–2018)

  2010–2018 · 1.6 THP

• First-generation cars have reported intermittent parking-sensor, navigation, alarm and central-locking faults, many resolved through software updates. An owner also reported Auto Hold, ESP and camera issues.[7][3]Peugeot 508 (2010–2018)

  2010–2018

Which engine and version to take

• For the first generation, the 204 hp 2.2-litre turbodiesel is a compelling option: the source praises its performance-to-economy balance and smooth six-speed automatic.[1]one sourcePeugeot 508 (2010–2018)
• In the second generation, the 2.0-litre diesel is the safer choice over the 1.5 BlueHDi: the source says it does not suffer the smaller engine's characteristic cam-chain trouble.[8]one sourcePeugeot 508 II

What to avoid

• Avoid an early second-generation 1.5 BlueHDi with the 7 mm chain unless a sound upgrade and subsequent maintenance are documented; chain failure can lead to major engine repairs.[6][8]Peugeot 508 II
• The first-generation 1.6 THP is risky without a convincing service history, as the source reports timing-chain, carbon, ignition, cooling and turbo-control problems.[7]one sourcePeugeot 508 (2010–2018)

What to check at the inspection

• With a cold 1.5 BlueHDi, listen for abnormal cam-chain noise and verify paperwork for replacement of the chain, tensioner, camshafts and cam carrier.[6][8]Peugeot 508 II
• On a 1.5 BlueHDi, inspect the cam-carrier cover casting: a passenger-side bulge indicates the 8 mm chain, while a smooth sloping cover indicates the old 7 mm setup.[6][8]Peugeot 508 II
• Inspect a 1.5 BlueHDi for oil seepage around the cam carrier, head, heat exchanger and sump, and check coolant level plus any sign of coolant in the oil.[6][8]Peugeot 508 II
• On a first-generation car, test the air conditioning, parking sensors, navigation, alarm and central locking; scan it for engine, ESP and Auto Hold faults as well.[7][3]Peugeot 508 (2010–2018)
• On the second generation's frameless doors, ensure each window drops smoothly when opened and reseats correctly when closed; freezing or poor adjustment can make it catch the trim.[8]one sourcePeugeot 508 II

Verdict

Sources

1. [1]whatcar.lv — Pirmais brauciens: Peugeot 508 - What Car? · press
2. [2]whatcar.lv — Peugeot 508: testa brauciens - What Car? - WhatCar.lv · press
3. [3]iauto.lv — "Peugeot 508" apskats - vidējās klases limuzīns no Francijas · forum
4. [4]carwow — Peugeot 508 SW Estate 2021 in-depth review · ▶ video
5. [5]Autogefühl — Peugeot 508 SW FULL REVIEW all-new 508 Estate Kombi - Autogefühl · ▶ video
6. [6]CheckAuto — Обзор на Peugeot 508 SW · ▶ video
7. [7]АвтоШок — Почему не стоит покупать Peugeot 508 (2010 - 2018)? Рассказ о проблемах подержанной Пежо 508! · ▶ video
8. [8]АвтоСтронг — 🥐 Peugeot 508 II: мощный французский конкурент для Passat B8. Что надо знать при эксплуатации? · ▶ video

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