Survival Guide: Sourcing Peugeot 508 spares prices
For a value-packed mostly trouble-free family wagon, look no further!
Booted family cars offer great value right now, and the first-generation Peugeot 508 is a prime example. Larger than the 407, yet smaller than the 607 – both cars the 508 replaced in 2011
– it’s stylish, supremely comfortable, generously kitted out and available with a variety of strong, fuel-sipping engines. And here’s the thing; prices start at a paltry £2500 for an early one with the super frugal e-hdi 1.6 under the bonnet. Considering it was £20,000 new, that’s a lot of car for not very much money and alongside rivals from VW, Audi, Skoda and even Ford, unbeatable value.
It might be a tad old-fashioned, but there’s benefits to be had from having a boot and there’s no compromise in regard to styling here because, with its sloping rear roofline, it’s got all the sportiness of a coupé. Oh, and if you’re after the ultimate family holdall, there was an estate (SW) version, too.
Standard 508 equipment included cruise control, 7in touchscreen display, dual zone aircon and smart 17in alloy wheels. That said, canny buyers usually target the Allure which has sportier 18in rims, a natty panoramic glass roof and more plush half-leather seats, which are heated up front.
At launch 508 petrol engine options included a 120bhp 1.6 VTI and a 1.6 petrol with a high pressure turbo (THP). The latter produced a healthy 156bhp yet still managed to exceed 40mpg. Meanwhile, the diesel line-up comprised the 1.6 HDI, the e-hdi 1.6 with stop-start technology mated to a special electronically controlled manual gearbox, and the 2.0 HDI – which was available in a range of power outputs from 140 to 163. There was also a 200bhp 2.2 in the GT, mated to a six-speed auto gearbox; it was the same unit as in the Jaguar XF. Additionally, there was the e-hdi 2.0-litre diesel hybrid with 204bhp which featured drive to all four wheels.
A facelift in 2014 gave the front and rear end a mild makeover, standard spec was improved and new, more fuel efficient engines appeared in the form of the 2.0-litre Bluehdi 150 and 180.
The revised model was nicer inside, too – a little classier and uncluttered than its predecessor.
So, what’s not to like? Well, some of the plastics inside are a bit low rent, and when it rains water drips into the boot when open. But we’re splitting hairs here because, in short, it’s a cheap and affordable to run alternative to much dearer German options.
Engines
None of the engines in the 508 are troublesome, as long as they’ve been regularly maintained; the timing belt interval is 10 years or 100,000 miles, but it would be prudent to do it sooner. However, there’s been a few reports of excessive oil consumption on THP petrol 1.6, as well as occasional fuel pump leaks on the HDI.
Owners of cars with stop-start technology have also reported that it stops working if the battery’s in anything less than perfect health.
Peugeot’s wet DPF system (FAP) is usually problem-free as long as the correct low-ash, sulphur and phosphorous (SAPS) C2-spec oil is used. If a FAP warning light appears, therefore, suspect a problem elsewhere, such as excessive oil consumption, faulty injectors or a chocked EGR. Firms such as dpfcleanteam.co.uk can sometimes clean the filter, otherwise it’s a case of buying a replacement. Check out our September 2016 issue for more info on DIY DPF maintenance.
While the semi-automatic ECG gearbox in the e-hdi will allow you to achieve good mpg, it’s not to everyone’s taste as the changes can be slow. It’s notoriously fragile, too. Error messages, sticking in gear and strange selections
usually point to a duff electronic clutch and/or gearbox actuator. Sinspeed UK can carry out a test first (£72) and, if required, repair both items for £354 each. Beware too of Dual Mass Flywheel issues, which can also make the 508 unnecessarily expensive to run.
They’re £352.72 from Peugeot.
Suspension & steering
The 508 features a Mcpherson type front suspension, while the GT model benefits from a double wishbone arrangement as on the previous 407. It certainly provides grippier handling and sharper response, but some owners have reported premature bush wear (commonly the bottom swivel joint), so beware front tyres that are bald on the inner edges. Front droplinks often need replacing, too.
If there’s excessive vibration from the front at idle on the GT when in P or N, suspect the active engine mount.
Brakes
There’s nothing to report on 508 brakes, although what might seem like a serious braking issue can often be traced to something as simple as the brake light switch. It’s a common failure.
Incidentally, Peugeot offer a cheaper alternative when it comes to discs, so check these out too before going the independent route.
There’s an electronic handbrake on the 508, so if there’s excessive pad/disc wear, then suspect a faulty brake caliper. You’ll pay £353.54 at a main dealer and from £264.99 at an independent.
Other issues
If the keyless entry stops working, or there’s spurious electrical issues, check the BSI (or body control unit). Try resetting it first, and if that doesn’t work get yours rebuilt by Bba-reman.
Finally, those boot leaks. Apparently there was a dealer fix, but you can try removing the rubber stopper and resealing it yourself. If not, don’t open it in the rain!