CarValidator

1.6 THP (EP6DT / EP6CDT, turbo)

20072013 · petrol · 1598cc · 150hp

Engine codes: EP6DT, EP6CDT, 5FX

Problematic

Reliability, common problems and owner reviews for the Peugeot 308 1.6 THP (EP6DT / EP6CDT, turbo). Check this before you buy used.

The turbo Prince (BMW-PSA, also in MINI). Strong but troublesome: timing chain/tensioner failure (pre-May-2009 worst — rattle from the passenger side warns of imminent valve/piston damage), plus carbon and high-pressure-pump issues. Needs disciplined oil and a chain history; otherwise expensive.

Same engine, other cars

This is the same physical engine (EP6) sold under different names across brands. Reliability is broadly shared — cross-check these:

Known Issues

Timing chain / tensioner failurecritical

Tensioner wears (pre-May-2009 especially); chain skips → pistons hit valves. Passenger-side rattle is the warning.

Fix / Workaround: Replace chain + tensioner (revised parts); use correct oil, keep topped.

Repair cost: €700–€1500

Typically appears after: 90,000 km

Carbon build-uprecurring

Heavy DI carbon on intake valves.

Fix / Workaround: Walnut blast (recurs).

Repair cost: €150–€350

Typically appears after: 90,000 km

High-pressure fuel pumprecurring

HP pump faults cause running issues.

Fix / Workaround: Replace HP pump.

Repair cost: €250–€700

Year Cutoffs

2009: Before — Pre-May-2009 — worst timing-chain/tensioner risk. After — Revised parts later, still chain-sensitive.

Mileage Thresholds

After 90,000 km: Chain/carbon/HP-pump issues cluster.

Pre-Purchase Checklist

  • Cold-start rattle check (passenger side) essential
  • Timing chain/tensioner history
  • Decoke history
  • Disciplined oil changes

Frequently asked questions

Is the Peugeot 308 1.6 THP (EP6DT / EP6CDT, turbo) reliable?

Problematic — The turbo Prince (BMW-PSA, also in MINI). Strong but troublesome: timing chain/tensioner failure (pre-May-2009 worst — rattle from the passenger side warns of imminent valve/piston damage), plus carbon and high-pressure-pump issues. Needs disciplined oil and a chain history; otherwise expensive.

What are the common problems and reviews for the Peugeot 308 1.6 THP (EP6DT / EP6CDT, turbo)?

The most commonly reported problems: Timing chain / tensioner failure, Carbon build-up, High-pressure fuel pump.

Is a used Peugeot 308 1.6 THP (EP6DT / EP6CDT, turbo) worth buying?

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