The Citroën BlueHDi 120 is a 1,997 cc, inline-four turbo-diesel engine developed by Stellantis (formerly PSA Group) and introduced in 2015. It features high-pressure common-rail direct injection (up to 2,000 bar), a variable geometry turbocharger (VGT), and dual overhead camshafts (DOHC). In standard tune it delivers 88 kW (120 PS) and 300 Nm of torque, designed for balanced performance and efficiency.
Fitted to models such as the C3, C4, C5 Aircross, and Berlingo, the BlueHDi 120 was engineered for urban and mixed driving with an emphasis on fuel economy and low-end torque. Emissions compliance is achieved through exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), a diesel particulate filter (DPF), and selective catalytic reduction (SCR) with AdBlue injection, enabling Euro 6 compliance across all production years.
One documented concern is premature EGR valve coking, particularly in vehicles used for frequent short journeys. This issue, referenced in Stellantis Service Bulletin TSB 8045, results from incomplete carbon burn-off during low-load operation. From 2018, revised EGR cooling strategies and updated control algorithms were implemented to reduce deposit formation and extend component life.
All production years 2015–2022 meet Euro 6b or later standards depending on model phase (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Citroën BlueHDi 120 is a 1,997 cc inline-four turbo-diesel engineered for compact and SUV models (2015–2022). It combines high-pressure common-rail injection with variable geometry turbocharging to deliver responsive low-RPM torque and efficient cruising. Designed to meet Euro 6 emissions standards, it balances everyday drivability with regulatory compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,997 cc | |
| Fuel type | Diesel | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 85.0 mm × 88.0 mm | |
| Power output | 88 kW (120 PS) @ 3,750 rpm | |
| Torque | 300 Nm @ 1,750–2,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch CRS 2.0 common-rail (up to 2,000 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6b (2015–2018), Euro 6d-TEMP (2018–2022) | |
| Compression ratio | 16.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single variable-geometry turbo (Honeywell) | |
| Timing system | Timing belt (service interval: 160,000 km or 8 years) | |
| Oil type | Total Quartz INEO ECS 5W-30 | |
| Dry weight | 145 kg |
The BlueHDi 120 delivers strong low-RPM torque ideal for city driving but requires regular highway runs to maintain DPF regeneration and prevent EGR clogging. Total Quartz INEO ECS 5W-30 oil is mandatory due to its low-ash formulation protecting the SCR system. The timing belt must be replaced at 160,000 km or 8 years—whichever comes first—to prevent catastrophic failure. AdBlue levels must be monitored; running dry triggers limp mode. Pre-2018 models benefit from EGR valve cleaning per Stellantis TSB 8045 to reduce idle instability and fault codes.
Oil Specs: Requires Total Quartz INEO ECS 5W-30 specification (Stellantis SIB 8045). Replaces ACEA C2/C3 standards for low-SAPS compatibility.
Emissions: Euro 6b applies to 2015–2018 models; Euro 6d-TEMP (RDE-compliant) for 2018–2022 (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
Power Ratings: Measured under UN ECE R85 standards. Output remains stable with EN 590 diesel; poor fuel quality may trigger ECU derates.
Stellantis Technical Information System (TIS): Docs BHD120-ENG, BHD120-TURBO, SIB 8045
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
European Commission Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
The Citroën BlueHDi 120 was used across Citroën's Berlinette and Compact SUV platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake manifolds in the C3 and reinforced engine mounts in the C5 Aircross-and from 2018 the facelifted models adopted Euro 6d-TEMP compliance with enhanced SCR dosing, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front of the cylinder block near the timing belt cover (Stellantis TIS BHD120-ID). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('K' for BlueHDi 120). Pre-2018 models have a single AdBlue injector; post-2018 units feature dual-dosing SCR systems. Critical differentiation from BlueHDi 130: BlueHDi 120 uses Bosch EDC17C84 ECU with 88 kW output. Service parts require model year verification—EGR coolers for pre-2018 models are not interchangeable due to revised flow paths (Stellantis SIB 8045).
The BlueHDi 120's primary reliability risk is EGR valve coking, with elevated incidence in urban stop-start use. Stellantis internal reports from 2019 noted increased EGR-related fault rates in city-driven vehicles, while UK DVSA MOT data links a significant portion of emissions failures to DPF saturation. Short-trip driving and infrequent regeneration cycles increase soot loading, making regular highway runs and proper oil specification critical.
Analysis derived from Stellantis technical bulletins (2015-2022) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2018-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about CITROEN BLUEHDI120.
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