The Citroen 3FZ (EW12J4) is a 2,183 cc, inline-four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2001 and 2011. It belongs to the PSA EW family of high-capacity, SOHC engines designed for smoothness and refinement in mid-size and executive vehicles. Featuring multi-point fuel injection (MPi), dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), and variable valve timing (VVT), it delivers 103 kW (140 PS) with linear power delivery and low vibration.
Fitted to models such as the C5 2.2i 16v and C6 2.2 HDi (petrol variant), the 3FZ engine was engineered for relaxed cruising and long-distance comfort. Emissions compliance was achieved through exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), a three-way catalytic converter, and closed-loop lambda control, enabling Euro 3 compliance across its production run. Its longitudinal mounting and robust NVH tuning made it a preferred choice for premium-oriented applications.
One documented concern is cylinder head gasket degradation, particularly in early-production units, noted in PSA Technical Service Bulletin TSB-ENG-2004-09. This issue arises from thermal cycling stress and coolant chemistry sensitivity in the aluminum head-to-block interface. From 2004, revised multi-layer steel (MLS) gaskets and updated coolant specifications were introduced to improve sealing integrity and reduce failure rates.
All production years 2001–2011 meet Euro 3 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/3456).
The Citroen 3FZ (EW12J4) is a 2,183 cc inline-four naturally aspirated petrol engine designed for refinement and durability in mid-size and executive vehicles (2001–2011). It combines DOHC architecture with variable valve timing to deliver smooth power delivery and low noise levels. Designed to meet Euro 3 standards, it prioritizes drivability and longevity over high specific output.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,183 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded, 95 RON min) | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 87.0 mm × 96.0 mm | |
| Power output | 103 kW (140 PS) @ 5,750 rpm | |
| Torque | 200 Nm @ 4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch ME7.4.4 sequential multi-point injection (MPI) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 3 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.8:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Timing belt (replace every 150,000 km or 10 years) | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-40 (ACEA A3/B3) | |
| Dry weight | 158 kg |
The DOHC VVT system provides smooth mid-range power ideal for highway cruising but requires adherence to 150,000 km timing belt intervals to prevent valve damage. SAE 10W-40 ACEA A3/B3 oil is critical for maintaining hydraulic pressure in the VVT actuators and camshaft bearings. Extended idling or aggressive driving without proper warm-up increases head gasket stress, especially in pre-2004 units. The MPI fuel system is robust but sensitive to low-quality petrol; use of TOP TIER fuel recommended. Pre-2004 models should have the updated MLS head gasket installed per PSA TSB-ENG-2004-09. EGR valve cleaning is advised every 100,000 km to maintain emissions compliance.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 10W-40 meeting ACEA A3/B3 standards (PSA TSB-ENG-2003-07). Compatible with BMW Longlife-98.
Emissions: Euro 3 certification applies to all models 2001–2011 (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/3456).
Power Ratings: Measured under ECE R85 standards. Output consistent across all markets.
PSA Technical Information System (TIS): Docs EW-FAM-01, EW-TIM-01, TSB-ENG-2004-09
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/3456)
ISO 20763:2019 Road vehicles — Light vehicles with spark-ignition engines — Gaseous emissions test procedures
The Citroen 3FZ (EW12J4) was used across Citroen's C5/C6 platforms with longitudinal mounting and shared with Peugeot in executive variants. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced engine mounts in the C6 and revised torque distribution in the automatic transmission-and from 2004 the facelifted C5 Phase 2 adopted the MLS head gasket and updated coolant specification, creating interchange limits. Partnerships allowed Peugeot's 607 2.2i to use identical powertrain hardware. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped vertically on the right-side engine block near the exhaust manifold (PSA TIS EW-ID-01). The 7th VIN digit indicates engine family ('E' for EW series). Pre-2004 models have a ribbed black valve cover with exposed breather hose; post-2004 units use a smoother casting with integrated breather. Critical differentiation from EW10: Original 3FZ (EW12J4) has a 2.2L displacement with DOHC, while EW10J4 uses SOHC and a smaller bore. Service parts require production date verification - head gaskets before 09/2003 are not interchangeable with post-revision units due to material redesign (PSA TSB-ENG-2004-09).
The 3FZ (EW12J4)'s primary reliability risk is cylinder head gasket degradation, with elevated incidence in vehicles used for sustained high-speed driving or with delayed coolant changes. PSA internal field reports from 2006 indicated a notable share of pre-2004 units required gasket replacement before 160,000 km, while UK DVSA records show increased coolant-in-oil failures in neglected examples. Infrequent coolant changes and incorrect fluid types exacerbate sealing stress, making cooling system maintenance critical.
Analysis derived from PSA technical bulletins (2001-2011) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2002-2020). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about CITROEN 3FZ-EW12J4.
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