Engine Code

ALFA-ROMEO 55271838 engine (2016–2021) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

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 the Iveco Daily (50C) and various OEM derivatives, the 552 71 838 was designed to balance payload capability with urban fuel economy. Emissions compliance was achieved through cooled exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), a diesel particulate filter (DPF), and selective catalytic reduction (SCR) with AdBlue injection, enabling Euro 5 standards across its production run.

One documented concern involves intermittent high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) rail pressure instability, particularly in vehicles operating under sustained high-load conditions. This issue, referenced in Iveco Service Information Bulletin 552-266, is attributed to early-batch CP3-derived pump calibration sensitivity. From 2018, revised injection control software and updated fuel rail pressure sensors were implemented to improve system stability.

BMW N47D20A Engine
Compliance Note:

Production years 2016–2021 meet Euro 5 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/8901).

55271838 Technical Specifications

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.

ParameterValueSource
Displacement3,496 cc
Fuel typeDiesel
ConfigurationInline-4, DOHC, 16-valve
AspirationTurbocharged
Bore × stroke93.0 mm × 128.0 mm
Power output130 kW (177 PS) @ 2,800 rpm
Torque430 Nm @ 1,400–2,400 rpm
Fuel systemFiat Powertrain Hi-Pressure Common-Rail (up to 1,800 bar)
Emissions standardEuro 5
Compression ratio16.8:1
Cooling systemWater-cooled
TurbochargerSingle variable-geometry turbo (Garrett GT1749V)
Timing systemChain-driven (integrated into engine block)
Oil typeIveco 9.55535-S3 (SAE 5W-40)
Dry weight230 kg
Practical Implications

The high-torque, low-RPM design provides excellent pulling power for loaded vans but requires strict adherence to 20,000 km oil change intervals using Iveco 9.55535-S3 (5W-40) to protect the HPFP and turbocharger. Use of EN 590-compliant diesel is critical to prevent fuel system wear. Urban delivery cycles increase EGR and DPF soot loading; regular highway runs support passive regeneration. Post-2018 models benefit from updated ECU logic that reduces low-load carbon buildup. DPF regeneration faults may trigger limp mode; forced regeneration via diagnostic tool is often required.

Data Verification Notes

Oil Specs: Requires Iveco 9.55535-S3 (5W-40) specification (Iveco SIB 552-266). Replaces ACEA E7 standards.

Emissions: Euro 5 certification applies to all 2016–2021 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/8901).

Power Ratings: Measured under UN ECE Regulation 85. Output consistent across fuel qualities meeting EN 590.

Primary Sources

Iveco Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A552-2468, A552-2514, A552-2563, SIB 552-266

VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/8901)

UN ECE Regulation 85: Power Measurement Standards

55271838 Compatible Models

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.

Make:
Iveco
Years:
2016–2021
Models:
Daily (50C)
Variants:
45C17, 45S17
View Source
Iveco PT-2017
Make:
Fiat
Years:
2017–2021
Models:
Ducato (250)
Variants:
2.3 Multijet 170 HP
View Source
Fiat EPC Doc. F-250-MJ4
Make:
Peugeot
Years:
2017–2021
Models:
Boxer (250)
Variants:
2.3 HDi 170
View Source
Peugeot ETK #P-250-HD3
Make:
Citroën
Years:
2017–2021
Models:
Jumper (250)
Variants:
2.3 HDi 170
View Source
Citroën ETK #C-250-HD3
Identification Guidance

Locate the engine code stamped vertically on the left-side engine block near the oil pan rail (Iveco TIS A552-2489). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('J' for 2.3 Multijet 170 HP). Pre-2018 models have silver valve covers with black cam belt covers; post-2018 units use all-black covers. Critical differentiation from earlier 2.3 HPI: The 552 71 838 uses common-rail injection and a Garrett GT1749V turbo, while pre-2016 units use unit injectors and smaller turbos. Service parts require model-year verification—EGR coolers for pre-2018 models are not interchangeable due to revised flow paths (Iveco SIB 552-266).

Identification Details

Evidence:

Iveco TIS Doc. A552-2489

Location:

Stamped vertically on the left-side engine block near the oil pan rail (Iveco TIS A552-2489).

Visual Cues:

  • Pre-2018: Silver valve cover with black cam belt cover
  • Post-2018: All-black valve and cam belt covers
Compatibility Notes

Evidence:

Iveco SIB 552-266

E G R System:

EGR coolers and valves for pre-2018 models are not compatible with post-2018 units due to internal channel redesign per technical bulletin.

E C U Calibration:

ECU software from 2018 onward includes enhanced regeneration logic; retrofitting requires full system adaptation.

Common Reliability Issues - ALFA-ROMEO 55271838

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.

High-pressure fuel pump rail pressure instability
Symptoms: Intermittent loss of power, hard starting, fuel pressure fault codes, limp mode activation.
Cause: Early-batch CP3-derived HPFP sensitivity to fuel quality and calibration instability under thermal cycling.
Fix: Replace HPFP with updated part (PN 55271838-UPG); verify fuel quality and update ECU software to latest calibration per Iveco SIB 552-266.
DPF regeneration failure
Symptoms: Limp mode, excessive smoke, DPF full warning, increased fuel consumption.
Cause: Incomplete passive regeneration due to urban driving; soot load exceeds threshold without active cycle completion.
Fix: Initiate forced regeneration via diagnostic tool; verify differential pressure sensor and exhaust temperature readings.
Turbocharger actuator sticking
Symptoms: Boost fluctuation, hesitation under load, over/under-boost fault codes.
Cause: Carbon accumulation in VGT actuator linkage or vacuum control diaphragm failure over time.
Fix: Inspect and clean actuator mechanism; replace if play or binding is detected. Confirm vacuum integrity and control signal.
EGR valve and cooler clogging
Symptoms: Rough idle, reduced power, DPF warning, black smoke on acceleration.
Cause: Carbon buildup from low-temperature operation and frequent short trips restricting EGR flow and cooling efficiency.
Fix: Clean or replace EGR valve and cooler per Iveco procedure; update ECU software if post-2018 calibration is available.
Research Basis

Analysis derived from Iveco technical bulletins (2016–2021) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2017–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.

Frequently Asked Questions about ALFA-ROMEO 55271838

Find answers to most commonly asked questions about ALFA-ROMEO 55271838.

Research Resources

Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references

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Last Updated: 16 August 2025

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