Used buying guide · Large van · panel van conversions and motorhomes
The Boxer is a popular, value-for-money base for panel van conversions and coachbuilt motorhomes. It shares a lot with the Ducato, but the engines are different on many years.
This guide covers the Peugeot Boxer problems buyers most often run into on used vans and campervans, what each one looks like on a viewing and what to ask the seller. Not every van will have them. But knowing where to look stops you paying for someone else’s repair bill.
Engines you’ll find: 2.2 HDi (2006-2016), 2.0 and 2.2 BlueHDi (2016 on), 2.8 HDi on older vans
The Boxer shares its body and chassis with the Fiat Ducato and Citroen Relay. Read the Ducato guide too.
Common problems on a used Peugeot Boxer
1. AdBlue system faults on 2016-on vans
BlueHDi Boxers use AdBlue, and pump and heater failures are a known problem. Any AdBlue warning or countdown on the dash needs fixing before you buy.
2. Injector problems on the 2.2 HDi
Injector faults and leaking injector seals can cause smoke, rough running and hard starting. Ask about any injector work.
3. Gearbox wear
Listen for bearing whine and check for baulky changes. Heavy conversions put a lot of strain on the gearbox.
4. Water leaks into the cab
Water getting in at the windscreen and scuttle panel can soak the footwells and upset the electrics. Check under the mats and for damp smells.
5. Ageing suspension and brakes
Older vans often need shock absorbers, wheel bearings and brake work. Check for knocks over bumps and for pulling under braking.
Our tip: Check the habitation side as carefully as the engine. On an older coachbuilt Boxer the body is usually the expensive part.
These are problems commonly reported by owners, garages and the motoring press. They are not a diagnosis of any particular van. A van with a full service history and the right repairs already done can be a very good buy.
Checking the conversion as well as the van
On a campervan or motorhome, the living area can cost as much to put right as the engine. However good the base vehicle is, check these before you buy:
- Damp readings around windows, rooflights, lockers and the floor. Damp is the most expensive hidden problem in a camper.
- Gas appliances light and work, and the regulator hose is in date.
- Leisure battery, 12V system and mains hook-up all work and look professionally installed.
- Water pump, taps and tanks do not leak.
- Any added seats have proper fixings and belts, and the V5C body type matches the conversion for insurance.
- A pop-top or high-top roof does not leak, and the mechanism works.
Before you pay for a used Peugeot Boxer
- Check the history. Run the free MOT history check online and look for mileage gaps and repeat advisories. Pay for a full history check for finance, theft and write-off markers.
- Match the paperwork. The seller’s ID, the V5C and the VIN on the van should all match. Be wary of a seller who is selling for someone else.
- See it running from cold. Ask the seller not to start it before you arrive. Many faults show up in the first few minutes.
- Never send a deposit unseen. Pay only at handover, by bank transfer, once you have the keys and the V5C.
Can’t get there to see it? We’ll check it for you
SafeBuy views campervans and motorhomes for buyers across the UK. We check the seller and paperwork against the V5C, run a history and finance check, walk you round the Peugeot Boxer on a live video call and send you a photo report. Add our Habitation Check and we take damp readings throughout and test the gas, electrics, battery and water.
Viewing & Verify
£149 + travel
Seller and document checks, history and finance check, live video walk-round and photo report.
Viewing + Habitation Check
£299 + travel
Everything above plus damp readings and checks of the gas, electrics, battery and water.
Drive It Home
By mileage
If you buy it, we drive it to your door. Fixed quote before you commit.
A viewing is not a full mechanical inspection. We report what we can see and measure on the day, so you can decide with the facts in front of you. See the areas we cover.
Other buying guides
Looking at more than one van? Read our guides to Fiat Ducato common problems and Citroen Relay common problems, or see every model we cover.
Questions about buying a Peugeot Boxer
What are the most common problems with a used Peugeot Boxer?
The problems reported most often are: AdBlue system faults on 2016-on vans; Injector problems on the 2.2 HDi; Gearbox wear; Water leaks into the cab; and Ageing suspension and brakes. Not every van will have them, so check the service history and see the van running from cold.
Is a Peugeot Boxer a good base for a campervan?
It can be. Peugeot Boxer vans are widely used for panel van conversions and motorhomes. The best buys have a full service history, a professionally fitted conversion and no damp in the living area.
Can SafeBuy check a Peugeot Boxer before I buy it?
Yes. We view the van for you, check the seller and paperwork, walk you round it on a live video call and can test the living area with our Habitation Check. Prices start at £149 plus travel.
Found one you like? We’ll check the Peugeot Boxer for you
Send us the advert and we’ll reply within one working day with a fixed quote to view it for you.