The Iveco 552 71 838 is a 3,496 cc, inline — four turbo — diesel engine produced between 2016 and 2021. It features high — pressure common — rail injection (up to 1,800 bar), a variable geometry turbocharger (VGT), and dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), delivering 130 kW (177 PS) and 430 Nm of torque. This engine was engineered for light commercial vehicle applications requiring strong low — end pull and improved fuel efficiency over its predecessor.
Fitted to models including t…
Production years 2016–2021 meet Euro 5 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/8901).
The Iveco 552 71 838 is a 3,496 cc inline-four turbo-diesel engineered for light-duty commercial vans and chassis cabs (2016–2021). It combines high-pressure common-rail injection with a variable geometry turbocharger to deliver robust low-RPM torque and reliable daily operation. Designed to meet Euro 5 standards, it balances payload performance with urban efficiency.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 3,496 cc | |
Fuel type | Diesel | |
Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
Bore × stroke | 93.0 mm × 128.0 mm | |
Power output | 130 kW (177 PS) @ 2,800 rpm | |
Torque | 430 Nm @ 1,400–2,400 rpm | |
Fuel system | Fiat Powertrain Hi-Pressure Common-Rail (up to 1,800 bar) | |
Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
Compression ratio | 16.8:1 | |
Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
Turbocharger | Single variable-geometry turbo (Garrett GT1749V) | |
Timing system | Chain-driven (integrated into engine block) | |
Oil type | Iveco 9.55535-S3 (SAE 5W-40) | |
Dry weight | 230 kg |
The Iveco 552 71 838 was used across Iveco's 50C platform with longitudinal mounting and shared architecture with Fiat and Peugeot variants. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—reinforced torque mounts in the Daily Van and extended oil coolers in chassis cab applications—and from 2018, updated ECU calibration for improved emissions control, creating minor service part distinctions. Partnerships within the FCA group allowed shared componentry across brands. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The 552 71 838's primary reliability risk is EGR and intake carbon buildup, with elevated incidence in city-driven commercial vehicles. Internal Iveco field reports from 2019 indicated over 30% of urban-driven units required EGR cleaning before 150,000 km, while UK DVSA MOT data shows DPF-related failures are common in stop-start conditions. Short-trip usage and delayed oil changes accelerate soot accumulation, making regular maintenance and highway driving critical.
Analysis derived from Iveco technical bulletins (2016–2021) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2017–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
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The 552 71 838 offers strong low-end torque and efficiency, but long-term reliability depends heavily on usage and maintenance. Engines used for frequent short trips are prone to EGR and DPF issues. Regular oil changes with correct specification (5W-40 Iveco 9.55535-S3) and periodic highway driving to enable DPF regeneration significantly improve longevity. Well-maintained units can exceed 350,000 km in commercial service.
The most common issues are high-pressure fuel pump rail pressure instability, DPF regeneration failure, and turbo actuator sticking. EGR clogging is also reported, particularly in stop-start delivery vehicles. These are documented in Iveco service bulletins, particularly SIB 552-266, which addresses fuel system revisions. Carbon buildup is the primary concern in urban environments.
This engine was used in the Iveco Daily (50C) from 2016 to 2021, badged as 45C17/45S17. It was also shared across FCA platforms in the Fiat Ducato (250), Peugeot Boxer (250), and Citroën Jumper (250). All applications meet Euro 5 emissions standards, with minor ECU and cooling variations between models.
Yes, the 552 71 838 is tunable via ECU remapping. Stage 1 tunes typically achieve 200–210 PS safely, as the stock turbo and internals handle increased torque. However, tuning increases exhaust temperatures and soot production, raising DPF clogging risk. Supporting modifications like an upgraded intercooler and regular DPF maintenance are recommended for sustained performance.
In combined driving, the Iveco Daily 45C17 achieves approximately 6.8 L/100km (42 mpg UK). Highway consumption can drop to 6.1 L/100km (46 mpg UK), while city driving may reach 8.0 L/100km (35 mpg UK). Real-world economy heavily depends on load and driving style, with poorly maintained units showing significantly higher consumption.
Yes, the 552 71 838 is an interference engine. If the timing chain fails or skips, piston-to-valve contact will occur, resulting in severe internal damage. However, the chain-driven system is generally robust when maintained with correct oil and intervals. Any unusual front-end rattle should be investigated immediately to prevent catastrophic failure.
The engine requires Iveco 9.55535-S3 specification oil, typically SAE 5W-40. This formulation is critical for EGR system cleanliness and turbocharger protection. Oil changes should be performed every 20,000 km or annually, whichever comes first. Using non-compliant oil increases the risk of sludge and carbon buildup, leading to premature component wear.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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EUR-Lex
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GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.
DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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