The Citroën DW12C is a 2,179 cc, inline-four turbo-diesel engine produced between 2000 and 2008. It features a SOHC 8-valve configuration with high-pressure common-rail fuel injection (Bosch CRS 2.0) and a fixed-geometry turbocharger, delivering robust low-end torque and mechanical durability for mid-size and executive applications. In standard tune it produces 88 kW (120 PS), with peak torque of 250 Nm available from 1,750 rpm, making it well-suited for relaxed cruising and load-carrying duties.
Fitted to models such as the C5, C8, and Xantia, the DW12C was engineered for refinement, reliability, and compliance with tightening emissions standards. Emissions control is achieved through exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) and an oxidation catalyst, allowing Euro 3 compliance across its production run—verified under EU Regulation (EC) No 715/2007 and UK VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6784.
One documented reliability concern is high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) internal wear, noted in PSA Service Information Bulletin (SIB) 3312. This issue arises from marginal lubricity in early-spec ultra-low-sulfur diesel (ULSD) and can lead to rail pressure instability. In 2005, PSA introduced revised Bosch CRS 2.0 pump internals and updated fuel filtration, significantly improving durability in later production units.
All production years (2000–2008) meet Euro 3 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6784).
The Citroën DW12C is a 2,179 cc inline-four turbo-diesel engineered for mid-size and executive passenger applications (2000–2008). It combines common-rail direct injection with a fixed-geometry turbocharger to deliver strong low-end torque and reliable operation. Designed to meet Euro 3 standards, it balances comfort with environmental compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,179 cc | |
| Fuel type | Diesel | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, SOHC, 8-valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 89.0 mm × 88.0 mm | |
| Power output | 88 kW (120 PS) @ 4,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 250 Nm @ 1,750–2,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch CRS 2.0 common-rail (up to 1,600 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 3 | |
| Compression ratio | 17.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single fixed-geometry turbo (Garrett GT17) | |
| Timing system | Timing belt (interval: 120,000 km or 6 years) | |
| Oil type | SAE 15W-40 (ACEA B3/B4) | |
| Dry weight | 152 kg |
The SOHC 8V design prioritizes durability and ease of service but requires adherence to 120,000 km or 6-year timing belt intervals to prevent interference damage. SAE 15W-40 ACEA B3/B4 oil is recommended for high-temperature stability under sustained load. The Bosch CRS 2.0 fuel system demands EN 590-compliant ULSD to prevent HPFP wear—post-2005 units with revised pumps show improved tolerance. Radiator and coolant system maintenance should be prioritized to ensure consistent EGR function. The fixed-geometry turbo provides predictable boost but limits high-RPM efficiency compared to VGT variants.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 15W-40 meeting ACEA B3/B4 standards (PSA SIB 3312). Compatible with older mineral oils.
Emissions: Euro 3 certification applies to all 2000–2008 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6784). No Euro 4 variants produced.
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585. Output achieved with EN 590 diesel (PSA TIS Doc. DW12-3203).
PSA Technical Information System (TIS): Docs DW12-3001, DW12-3102, DW12-3203, SIB 3312
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/6784)
ISO International Standards: ISO 1585 Road vehicles — Engine test code — Net power
The Citroën DW12C was used across Citroën's C5, C8, and Xantia platforms with transverse mounting and front-wheel drive layout. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—reinforced mounts in the C8 and revised ECU mapping in the C5—and from 2005 the facelifted C5 models adopted updated Bosch CRS 2.0 fuel pumps with improved wear resistance, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped vertically on the right-side of the cylinder block, near the transmission bellhousing (PSA TIS DW12-3001). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('L' for DW12C). Pre-2005 models have silver valve covers with black rubber timing belt covers; post-2005 units use black valve covers. Critical differentiation from DW10: DW12C is a 2.2L 8V SOHC engine with common-rail injection and produces 120 PS; DW10TD is 90 PS with indirect injection. Service parts require model-year verification—fuel pumps for pre-2005 engines are not interchangeable with post-2005 units due to internal revisions (PSA SIB 3312).
The DW12C's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump wear on early production engines, with elevated incidence in vehicles used for frequent short trips. PSA internal field reports from 2004 indicated a notable share of pumps failing before 120,000 km due to inadequate fuel lubricity, while VCA MOT data shows EGR clogging as a recurring failure point in urban-driven examples. Cold-start cycles and low-quality diesel increase fuel system stress, making fuel quality and EGR maintenance critical.
Analysis derived from PSA technical bulletins (2000-2008) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2005-2012). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about CITROEN 4HL-DW12C.
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