CarValidator

1.2 PureTech (EB2DT turbo)

20142019 · petrol · 1199cc · 110hp

Engine codes: EB2DT, EB2DTS, HN01, HN05

Problematic

Reliability, common problems and owner reviews for the Peugeot 208 1.2 PureTech (EB2DT turbo). Check this before you buy used.

The 1.2 PureTech turbo (EB2DT, shared right across Peugeot/Citroën/Opel — 2008/308/Corsa/C3 Aircross) is lively and refined, but it's the engine to be most careful with: the cars use a wet timing belt (belt-in-oil) that degrades and sheds material, which can block the oil pickup and destroy the engine — a notorious, expensive failure that triggered extended warranties and many rebuilds, plus oil-dilution and tensioner issues. Later (≈2022+ across the range) cars moved to a chain. Buy a wet-belt car only with documented early belt replacement and obsessive oil changes; otherwise prefer the naturally-aspirated VTi or the diesel.

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

Wet timing belt failure (EB2)critical

Belt-in-oil degrades → debris blocks oil pickup → oil starvation → engine destruction. Notorious PureTech fault.

Fix / Workaround: Replace wet belt early (ahead of schedule); strict oil; or avoid.

Repair cost: €500–€4000

Typically appears after: 60,000 km

Oil dilution / tensionerrecurring

Oil dilution and tensioner wear compound the belt risk.

Fix / Workaround: Frequent oil changes; monitor level; check history.

Repair cost: €200–€1500

Typically appears after: 70,000 km

Mileage Thresholds

After 100,000 km: Wet-belt service is critical, not optional.

Pre-Purchase Checklist

  • Wet-belt: documented early belt change essential
  • Same EB2 as 2008 / Corsa / C3 Aircross
  • Prefer the VTi or diesel

Frequently asked questions

Is the Peugeot 208 1.2 PureTech (EB2DT turbo) reliable?

Problematic — The 1.2 PureTech turbo (EB2DT, shared right across Peugeot/Citroën/Opel — 2008/308/Corsa/C3 Aircross) is lively and refined, but it's the engine to be most careful with: the cars use a wet timing belt (belt-in-oil) that degrades and sheds material, which can block the oil pickup and destroy the engine — a notorious, expensive failure that triggered extended warranties and many rebuilds, plus oil-dilution and tensioner issues. Later (≈2022+ across the range) cars moved to a chain. Buy a wet-belt car only with documented early belt replacement and obsessive oil changes; otherwise prefer the naturally-aspirated VTi or the diesel.

What are the common problems and reviews for the Peugeot 208 1.2 PureTech (EB2DT turbo)?

The most commonly reported problems: Wet timing belt failure (EB2), Oil dilution / tensioner.

Is a used Peugeot 208 1.2 PureTech (EB2DT turbo) worth buying?

Known design issues and recurring faults that were never fully resolved. Buy only with eyes open.