1.6 VTi (EP6, naturally aspirated)
2007–2013 · petrol · 1598cc · 120hp
Engine codes: EP6, 5FW
Reliability, common problems and owner reviews for the Peugeot 308 1.6 VTi (EP6, naturally aspirated). Check this before you buy used.
The naturally-aspirated Prince 1.6 (BMW-PSA). Owners received notices that timing chains needed changing — chain stretch is the defining issue (cold-start rattle), alongside carbon build-up. Manageable with disciplined oil and early chain work, but a known weak engine.
Same engine, other cars
This is the same physical engine (EP6) sold under different names across brands. Reliability is broadly shared — cross-check these:
- Peugeot 3008— 1.6 THP / VTi (EP6, Prince)156hp
- Peugeot 5008— 1.6 THP (EP6)156hp
- Citroën C4— 1.6 VTi / THP (EP6, Prince)150hp
- Citroën C3— 1.6 VTi / THP (EP6, Prince)120hp
- Citroën Berlingo— 1.6 VTi (EP6)120hp
- Mini Hatch— Cooper / Cooper S (1.6 EP6)175hp
- Peugeot 508— 1.6 THP (EP6CDT)156hp
- Peugeot 207— 1.6 VTi / THP (EP6, Prince)150hp
- Peugeot 308— 1.6 THP (EP6DT / EP6CDT, turbo)150hp
- Citroën C4 Picasso— 1.6 THP / VTi (EP6)156hp
Known Issues
Chain stretches/rattles; if it skips teeth, valves and pistons collide. Owners were notified of needed chain changes.
Fix / Workaround: Replace chain + tensioner at first rattle; use correct oil, keep topped.
Repair cost: €600–€1300
Typically appears after: 90,000 km
Carbon on intake valves.
Fix / Workaround: Walnut blast.
Repair cost: €150–€350
Typically appears after: 100,000 km
Mileage Thresholds
After 90,000 km: Timing chain stretch risk rises.
Pre-Purchase Checklist
- ☐Cold-start rattle check is essential
- ☐Ask about timing chain replacement
- ☐Correct oil + frequent changes
Frequently asked questions
Is the Peugeot 308 1.6 VTi (EP6, naturally aspirated) reliable?
Problematic — The naturally-aspirated Prince 1.6 (BMW-PSA). Owners received notices that timing chains needed changing — chain stretch is the defining issue (cold-start rattle), alongside carbon build-up. Manageable with disciplined oil and early chain work, but a known weak engine.
What are the common problems and reviews for the Peugeot 308 1.6 VTi (EP6, naturally aspirated)?
The most commonly reported problems: Timing chain stretch, Carbon build-up.
Is a used Peugeot 308 1.6 VTi (EP6, naturally aspirated) worth buying?
Known design issues and recurring faults that were never fully resolved. Buy only with eyes open.