Peugeot 308: Checking levels

Check all of the following levels regularly in accordance with the Manufacturer's service schedule. Top them up if required, unless otherwise indicated.

If a level drops significantly, have the corresponding system checked by a PEUGEOT dealer or a qualified workshop.

The fluids must comply with the Manufacturer's requirements and with the vehicle's engine.

Take care when working under the bonnet, as certain areas of the engine may be extremely hot (risk of burns) and the cooling fan could start at any time (even with the ignition off).

Used products

Avoid prolonged contact of used oil or fluids with the skin.

Most of these fluids are harmful to health and very corrosive.

Do not discard used oil or fluids into sewers or onto the ground.

Empty used oil into the containers reserved for this purpose at a PEUGEOT dealer or a qualified workshop.

• Engine oil
• Engine coolant

Engine oil

The level is checked, with the engine having been switched off for at least 30 minutes and on level ground, either using the oil level indicator in the instrument panel when the ignition is switched on (for vehicles equipped with an electric gauge), or using the dipstick.

It is normal to top up the oil level between two services (or oil changes). It is recommended that you check the level, and top up if necessary, every 3,000 miles (5,000 km).

In order to maintain the reliability of the engine and emissions control system, never use additives in the engine oil.

Checking using the dipstick

For the location of the dipstick, please refer to the illustration of the corresponding engine compartment.

► Grasp the dipstick by its coloured grip and pull it out completely.

► Wipe the end of the dipstick using a clean, lint-free cloth.

► Reinsert the dipstick and push fully down, then pull it out again to visually check the oil level: the correct level is between marks A (max) and B (min).

Do not start the engine if the level is:

- above mark A: contact a PEUGEOT dealer or a qualified workshop.

- below mark B: top up the engine oil immediately.

Oil grade

Before topping up or changing the engine oil, check that the oil is suitable for your engine and complies with the recommendations in the service schedule supplied with the vehicle (or available from your PEUGEOT dealer or qualified workshop).

Use of non-recommended oil may invalidate your warranty in the event of engine failure.

Topping up the engine oil level

For the location of the engine oil filler cap, please refer to the corresponding engine compartment illustration.

► Add oil in small quantities, avoiding any spills on engine components (risk of fire).

► Wait a few minutes before checking the level again using the dipstick.

► Top up the level if necessary.

► After checking the level, carefully screw the oil filler cap back on and replace the dipstick in its tube.

The oil level indication displayed on the instrument panel when the ignition is switched on is not valid for 30 minutes following an addition of oil.

Brake fluid

The level of this fluid should be close to the "MAX" mark. If not, check the brake pads for wear.

To know how often the brake fluid should be replaced, refer to the manufacturer's servicing schedule.

Clean the cap before removing it to refill.

Use only DOT4 brake fluid from a sealed container.

Engine coolant

For petrol, Diesel, hybrid or rechargeable hybrid versions

It is normal to top up this fluid between two services.

The check and top-up must only be done with the engine cold.

A level of coolant that is too low risks causing major damage to the engine; the coolant level must be close to the "MAX" mark without ever going above it.

If the level is close to or below the "MIN" mark, it is essential to top it up.

When the engine is hot, the temperature of the coolant is regulated by the fan.

As the cooling system is pressurised, wait at least one hour after switching off the engine before carrying out any work.

In order to avoid the risk of scalding if you need to top up in an emergency, wrap a cloth around the cap and unscrew the cap by two turns to allow the pressure to drop.

Once the pressure has dropped, remove the cap and top up to the required level.

For electric versions

Do not top up the coolant.

If the level is close to or below the "MIN" mark, it is essential to contact a PEUGEOT dealer or a qualified workshop.

Screenwash fluid

Top up to the required level when necessary.

Fluid specification

The fluid must be topped up with a pre-mixed product.

In winter (temperatures below zero), a fluid containing an anti-freeze agent which is appropriate for the temperature conditions must be used in order to protect the system's components (pump, tank, ducts, jets).

Filling with pure water is prohibited in all circumstances (risk of freezing, limescale, etc.).

Diesel fuel additive (Diesel with particle filter)

On reaching the minimum level in the particle filter additive tank, this warning lamp comes on fixed, accompanied by an audible signal and a warning message.

Topping up

The topping up of this additive must be carried out quickly.

Go to a PEUGEOT dealer or a qualified workshop.

AdBlue (BlueHDi)

An alert is triggered when the reserve level is reached.

For more information on the Indicators and in particular the AdBlue range indicators, refer to the corresponding section.

To avoid the vehicle being immobilised in accordance with regulations, you must top up the AdBlue tank.

For more information on AdBlue (BlueHDi), and in particular the supply of AdBlue, refer to the corresponding section.