CarValidator

1.0 / 1.2 VTi (EB2 naturally-aspirated)

20122019 · petrol · 1199cc · 82hp

Engine codes: EB0, EB2F, HMZ

Reliable

Reliability, common problems and owner reviews for the Peugeot 208 1.0 / 1.2 VTi (EB2 naturally-aspirated). Check this before you buy used.

The naturally-aspirated 1.0/1.2 VTi three-cylinders (EB2 without the turbo) are the simple, dependable 208 petrols — chain-driven, port-injected, no turbo and cheap to run. Crucially these are NOT the troublesome wet-belt PureTech turbos: the non-turbo EB2 is a far lower-worry engine. They're slow, especially loaded or uphill, and a bit thrummy, but mechanically low-risk. The honest budget choice for a city 208 — buy on basic history and enjoy minimal costs. (Watch only the odd timing-chain/coil item with age.)

Same engine, other cars

This is the same physical engine (HN05) sold under different names across brands. Reliability is broadly shared — cross-check these:

Known Issues

Modest power / 3-cyl thrumminor

82 hp is slow loaded; three-cylinder vibration normal.

Fix / Workaround: Accept the character; city car.

0
Timing chain / coils (age)minor

Chain and ignition items with age.

Fix / Workaround: Check chain; replace coils as needed.

Repair cost: €80–€600

Typically appears after: 120,000 km

Mileage Thresholds

After 180,000 km: Low-worry, cheap to run.

Pre-Purchase Checklist

  • NOT the wet-belt PureTech turbo
  • Simple, low-worry choice
  • Slow but dependable

Frequently asked questions

Is the Peugeot 208 1.0 / 1.2 VTi (EB2 naturally-aspirated) reliable?

Reliable — The naturally-aspirated 1.0/1.2 VTi three-cylinders (EB2 without the turbo) are the simple, dependable 208 petrols — chain-driven, port-injected, no turbo and cheap to run. Crucially these are NOT the troublesome wet-belt PureTech turbos: the non-turbo EB2 is a far lower-worry engine. They're slow, especially loaded or uphill, and a bit thrummy, but mechanically low-risk. The honest budget choice for a city 208 — buy on basic history and enjoy minimal costs. (Watch only the odd timing-chain/coil item with age.)

What are the common problems and reviews for the Peugeot 208 1.0 / 1.2 VTi (EB2 naturally-aspirated)?

The most commonly reported problems: Modest power / 3-cyl thrum, Timing chain / coils (age).

Is a used Peugeot 208 1.0 / 1.2 VTi (EB2 naturally-aspirated) worth buying?

Minor issues only, easy to maintain, no design flaws. A safe used buy.