Quick answer
A used Peugeot 308 Gen II starts from €8,000 in Lithuania. According to WHEELSTREET data, the 1.2 PureTech engine made before 2019 has a critical timing chain defect (repair: €2,000-4,000) — only buy 2019+ PureTech models with the updated chain. The 1.5 BlueHDi diesel is the safest choice, offering 4.5 l/100km fuel economy and excellent reliability.
The Peugeot 308 has won the prestigious European Car of the Year award twice (2014 and 2023). It's one of the most stylish cars in the compact segment — with a unique interior, good comfort and a striking modern design. However, buying a used example requires knowing about specific engine and electrical system weaknesses.
Generations Overview
Generation II (2013–2021) ⭐ Most Popular in Used Market
Stylish, comfortable, with a good 1.5 BlueHDi diesel.
Price: 9,000–22,000 €
Strengths:
- Striking design, unique interior
- 1.5 BlueHDi 130 hp — excellent diesel
- 1.2 PureTech petrol — surprisingly punchy for a small engine
- Good comfort on long journeys
- Wide range of specification and trim levels
Problems: 1.2 PureTech (EB2DTS) had serious timing chain problems up to 2019 — the most well-known 308 issue. Electrical system failures (as with all French cars). EMP2 platform — distinctive i-Cockpit with small steering wheel above instruments.
Recommended? Yes — 1.5 BlueHDi or 1.2 PureTech from 2019 production.
Generation III (2021–present) ⭐⭐ Most Modern
Revolutionary design, best technology, hybrid versions.
Used price: 22,000–38,000 €
Strengths:
- One of the best designs in the segment (2023 European Car of the Year)
- Hybrid version (PHEV 225 hp)
- Electric e-308 (54 kWh battery, 410 km range)
- Best i-Cockpit with 3D effect
- Best-in-class ADAS safety systems
Problems: Early 2021–2022 models had software bugs. e-308 — new technology with limited long-term reliability data.
Best Engines
Petrol
1.2 PureTech 130 hp (EB2ADTS, from 2019) — the fixed timing chain version. If buying a post-2019 production car, this engine is a good choice.
1.6 THP 205/272 hp (GTi version) — sports engine for performance-oriented buyers.
Avoid:
- 1.2 PureTech pre-2019 — known timing chain failure issue
Diesel
1.5 BlueHDi 130 hp (DV5RC) — best Peugeot 308 powertrain. Efficient (4.5–5.5 l/100km), dependable, reliable.
1.6 BlueHDi 120 hp — older variant, still acceptable.
2.0 BlueHDi 150 hp — more powerful, suited to GT trim versions.
Known 308 Problems
1. 1.2 PureTech Timing Chain (Pre-2019) — CRITICAL
This is the most serious Peugeot 308 issue. The 1.2 PureTech engine (EB2DTS, manufactured before 2019) has a timing chain tensioner that can fail between 60,000–100,000 km. A timing chain failure means engine destruction (repair cost: 3,000–5,000 €). When buying a 308 with 1.2 PureTech pre-2019 — a dealer inspection and timing chain diagnostics are mandatory.
How to check: OBD diagnostics (camshaft error codes), listen for rattling on cold start, check service book for chain or tensioner replacement.
2. Electrical System Failures
As with all French cars, the Peugeot 308 has electrical failure risk: BSM (body systems module), climate control, window regulators. OBD diagnostics are essential before purchase.
3. i-Cockpit Ergonomics
Peugeot's i-Cockpit system features a small steering wheel below the instrument cluster — non-standard ergonomics. Before buying, ensure you're comfortable with this driving position, as it requires a different seating position than conventional cars.
What to Check Before Buying
- ✅ VIN + production date — especially for 1.2 PureTech (before or after 2019?)
- ✅ OBD diagnostics — camshaft/timing chain fault codes
- ✅ Electrical systems — BSM, climate control, windows
- ✅ DPF fault codes (BlueHDi diesels)
- ✅ Service history — oil changes on schedule
- ✅ i-Cockpit test drive — check that the driving position is comfortable
Prices in Lithuania (2026)
| Version | Year | Price (€) | Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gen II 1.2 PureTech 6MT | 2013–2018 | 8,000–14,000 | Timing chain risk! |
| Gen II 1.5 BlueHDi | 2015–2020 | 10,000–18,000 | Best choice |
| Gen II 1.2 PureTech post-2019 | 2019–2021 | 13,000–20,000 | Fixed chain |
| Gen III 1.2 PureTech | 2021–2023 | 21,000–30,000 | Most modern |
| Gen III PHEV 225 hp | 2021–2023 | 24,000–35,000 | Plug-in hybrid |
| Gen III e-308 | 2023+ | 28,000–40,000 | Electric |
Peugeot 308 vs Rivals
vs VW Golf:
- Golf: more reliable and better residual values
- 308: more distinctive design (especially Gen III), better ride comfort
- Golf: more prestigious in the used market
vs Renault Megane:
- Both French compacts with similar issues
- 308 slightly more stylish; Megane offers more variants
- Both require OBD diagnostics before purchase
vs Ford Focus:
- Focus: better driving dynamics
- 308: more comfortable, better cabin comfort
- Focus: more mechanically reliable
Our Recommendation
Best buy in 2026: Peugeot 308 Gen II with 1.5 BlueHDi 130 hp manual gearbox, 2017–2020, mileage 60,000–110,000 km, price 12,000–18,000 €.
Alternative: 1.2 PureTech 130 hp from 2019 production with verified timing chain history.
Strictly avoid: 1.2 PureTech pre-2019 without timing chain diagnostics, any example without OBD diagnostics.
The Peugeot 308 is a stylish, comfortable and technologically interesting car. With the right engine and verified history — a good choice for buyers who prioritise design and French comfort.
FAQ
Is the Peugeot 308 reliable?
The 1.5 BlueHDi (Gen II, from 2015) is genuinely reliable — one of the best compact diesel engines. The 1.2 PureTech from 2019 is also solid after Peugeot fixed the timing chain issue. The main concerns are the pre-2019 PureTech chain (critical risk) and general French electrical gremlins. With the right engine and OBD check — acceptable reliability.
PureTech or BlueHDi — which engine is better?
For reliability and running costs — 1.5 BlueHDi (4.5–5.5 l/100km, straightforward diesel, no timing chain issues). For mainly city use or those avoiding diesel — 1.2 PureTech from 2019 only. Pre-2019 PureTech should be avoided unless a full chain inspection has been done and documented.
Is i-Cockpit a problem?
It divides opinion. The small steering wheel positioned below the instrument cluster is distinctive but requires a different driving position — higher and more upright. Most owners adapt quickly. Test drive before buying to ensure you're comfortable with the ergonomics.
Looking for a verified used Peugeot 308 in Lithuania? WHEELSTREET sources and inspects 308 models from France and across Europe. Contact us for a free consultation.
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