What are the reasons why the Peugeot 408 cannot start?
3 Answers
Dead battery, incorrect gear position, lack of antifreeze, etc. Here are the detailed explanations: 1. Dead battery: This may be caused by leaving the headlights on for an extended period or the battery reaching the end of its lifespan. It is generally recommended to replace the battery every 2 years. Additionally, installing xenon headlights, high-power audio systems, or DVD players can also lead to vehicle circuit failures. Checking for a dead battery is simple—just press the horn. 2. Incorrect gear position: For automatic transmission vehicles, the gear must be in P or N position to start. If it is in R or D position, the engine will not start. Some manual transmission vehicles also require the clutch to be depressed to start. 3. Lack of antifreeze: Some car owners use water or low-quality antifreeze, which can cause the entire cooling system to freeze in extremely cold winter conditions. This can lead to a cracked engine, preventing the car's water pump from functioning, making it impossible to start the engine, and damaging other engine components.
Last time my Peugeot 408 wouldn't start, it was absolutely nerve-wracking! It was a freezing winter morning, I got in and turned the key, but the car didn't budge at all. I checked the battery and found the voltage was too low, probably accelerated aging due to the cold weather. Then I looked at the ignition system and found either carbon buildup on the spark plugs or a faulty ignition coil. For the fuel system, an underperforming fuel pump or clogged filter could also cause insufficient fuel supply. Checking the electrical components, common issues include the anti-theft system being mistakenly activated or blown fuses. My suggestion is to start with the simple things: check if the battery terminals are loose, use a multimeter to test the voltage, or try jump-starting. If the problem persists, you'll need to go to a shop to scan for trouble codes. Don't underestimate small faults - delaying repairs might end up damaging the entire engine. I ended up spending over a thousand on repairs because of this, so early intervention saves both money and hassle.
The Peugeot 408 fails to start due to various reasons, significantly impacting daily life. For instance, a depleted battery, especially from prolonged short-distance driving that leads to insufficient charging, accelerates aging. A stuck starter or relay failure is one of the core issues, sometimes accompanied by a clicking sound without movement. Fuel system problems, such as a faulty fuel pump or an empty tank, are common misjudgments. An error in the anti-theft key chip may also lock the vehicle. I recommend owners conduct self-checks: observe if the dashboard warning lights are on, inspect the fuse box and connections for looseness. If tools are available, test the current flow. Avoid forcing multiple starts to prevent further engine damage. Promptly call for roadside assistance or tow to a professional repair shop—safety comes first. A friend of mine frequently encounters similar issues; timely resolution can prevent roadside breakdowns.
