2008 Peugeot 308 1.6 VTi 120 – Workshop Service & Repair Manual

Common Questions About Your 2008 Peugeot 308 1.6 VTi 120 (Manual)

• My 2008 Peugeot 308 1.6 VTi 120 engine makes a rattling noise, especially when starting up. What could be causing this?

  This rattling sound, particularly at startup or during acceleration, is quite a common complaint with the 1.6 VTi (EP6) engine in your Peugeot. It often points to a stretched timing chain or a worn-out timing chain tensioner. The chain helps synchronize engine parts, and if it's loose, you'll hear that noise. It's really important to get this checked by a mechanic quickly, as a loose chain can cause more serious engine damage if it jumps a tooth. They'll probably want to replace the chain, guides, and tensioner.

• Why is my 2008 Peugeot 308 1.6 VTi 120 consuming so much engine oil?

  High oil consumption is, unfortunately, a known characteristic of the 1.6 VTi engine in these cars. Often, the main culprits are worn valve stem seals, which let oil seep into the combustion chambers. Sometimes, a faulty PCV (Positive Crankcase Ventilation) diaphragm, located in the cam rocker cover, can also be to blame by creating too much crankcase pressure. Always make sure you're using the correct 5W-30 or 5W-40 specified oil. Checking your oil level regularly, maybe every 1,000 miles, and topping it up is good practice. If it's very high, a mechanic might suggest replacing those valve stem seals.

• What does the "Depollution System Faulty" message on my 2008 Peugeot 308 1.6 VTi 120 mean and how can I fix it?

  The "Depollution System Faulty" message is a very general warning that pops up when your car's emissions system detects an issue. For your 1.6 VTi, it could be anything from a stretched timing chain, faulty oxygen sensors, or even misfiring spark plugs or ignition coils. It's really crucial to get an OBD-II diagnostic scan done to pinpoint the exact fault code – that's the only way to know for sure what's going on. Sometimes, driving on the motorway at higher speeds can temporarily clear it, but it usually comes back.

• I'm having trouble shifting gears smoothly in my 2008 Peugeot 308 1.6 VTi 120 manual. What could be the issue?

  Difficulty shifting gears in your manual 308 can be pretty frustrating! It might be due to a few things. Sometimes, worn-out selector arms on the gearbox itself are the cause, especially if the gear stick feels loose or gets stuck. Low gearbox oil could also contribute. It's also worth checking your clutch system, like the master or slave cylinder, as a clutch not fully disengaging will definitely make shifting a pain. A mechanic can properly diagnose if it's the linkage, clutch, or even internal gearbox components causing the trouble.

• My 2008 Peugeot 308 1.6 VTi 120 makes squeaking or rattling noises from the suspension. What should I check?

  Hearing noises from your suspension isn't ideal, but it's a fairly common complaint for many cars, including your 308. Those squeaks and rattles, especially from the front, often point to worn components like your shock absorbers, or maybe even the anti-roll bar drop links and bushes. The support bearings of the struts can also creak when you turn. Getting these parts inspected is a good idea. Sometimes, a quick fix might be to lubricate them, but usually, replacing the worn parts, especially in pairs, will give you that comfortable ride back.