Why won't the Peugeot 308 start even though it has power?
2 Answers
Here are the reasons why a Peugeot 308 may have power but won't start: The steering wheel is in a locked position: The solution is to turn the steering wheel forcefully while turning the key, which usually quickly releases the steering lock, allowing the car to start instantly. The gear is not in the P position when parking: If the car could start in D or R gear, the sudden movement of the vehicle would pose a significant safety hazard. Therefore, for automatic transmission vehicles (AT, CVT, AMT), manufacturers preset this mode and repeatedly emphasize in the manual: ensure the gear is in the P position when starting. The smart key has a low battery: Even though the key is inside the car, the dashboard keeps displaying 'key matching error.' This situation is likely due to the smart key having a low battery, causing the start system to fail to detect the weak signal from the key. It is recommended to place the smart key on the start button and then press the button to start the car.
As a long-time car repair enthusiast, I believe that if the Peugeot 308 has electricity but won't start, it's likely an issue with the starter motor. The starter motor converts battery power into engine rotation. If it doesn't respond, it could be due to worn carbon brushes, seized internal gears, or a failed relay. Once when my car broke down, the battery light was on but I only heard a clicking sound when trying to start it. It turned out the motor had rusted from water ingress. During inspection, check if the battery cable connections are loose, and try replacing the relay to see if that helps. On the Peugeot 308, the starter motor is located under the engine, making it prone to dust accumulation and water ingress. Remember to clean and lubricate it during maintenance. Avoid prolonged exposure to water in rainy weather to extend its lifespan. If there's no sound at all when trying to start, a blown fuse is also common - just spend a few dollars to replace it. These issues aren't too complicated; you can either troubleshoot them yourself or take it to a professional shop. Don't delay too long as it could damage the engine.
