Engine Code

CITROEN D2C-XU92C engine (1993-1998) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

The Citroen D2C (XU92C) is a 1,868 cc inline-four petrol engine produced between 1993 and 1998. Part of PSA's widely used XU engine family, it features a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC), 16-valve configuration, and multi-point fuel injection (MPFI). In standard tune, it delivers 90 kW (122 PS), providing responsive performance for mid-size platforms like the Xantia and 605.

Fitted to models such as the Xantia SX and 605 V6i, the D2C (XU92C) was engineered for balanced drivability, combining smooth high-RPM power delivery with refined operation. Emissions compliance was achieved through a three-way catalytic converter, meeting Euro 2 standards throughout its production run. Its design prioritised reliability and serviceability across European operating conditions.

One documented concern is cylinder head cracking, particularly around the exhaust ports, observed in elevated-temperature operating environments. This issue, referenced in PSA Technical Service Bulletin TSB-ENG-0311, is typically associated with prolonged overheating or coolant neglect. Later production revisions incorporated improved cylinder head casting techniques to reduce thermal stress concentration.

BMW N47D20A Engine
Compliance Note:

Production years 1993–1998 meet Euro 2 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/4321).

D2C-XU92C Technical Specifications

The Citroen D2C (XU92C) is a 1,868 cc inline-four petrol engine engineered for mid-size platforms (1993–1998). It combines multi-point fuel injection with a dual overhead camshaft to deliver strong mid-range performance. Designed to meet Euro 2 standards, it balances responsiveness with durability for long-term ownership.

ParameterValueSource
Displacement1,868 cc
Fuel typePetrol
ConfigurationInline-4, DOHC, 16-valve
AspirationNaturally aspirated
Bore × stroke86.0 mm × 80.0 mm
Power output90 kW (122 PS) @ 5,750 rpm
Torque165 Nm @ 4,250 rpm
Fuel systemMulti-point fuel injection (MPFI)
Emissions standardEuro 2
Compression ratio10.3:1
Cooling systemWater-cooled
TurbochargerNot applicable
Timing systemTiming belt (interval: 120,000 km or 6 years)
Oil typeSAE 10W-40 (ACEA A2)
Dry weight128 kg
Practical Implications

The naturally aspirated DOHC design provides linear power delivery ideal for highway cruising but requires strict adherence to 120,000 km or 6-year timing belt replacement intervals to prevent valve damage. SAE 10W-40 oil meeting ACEA A2 is essential for valvetrain longevity. Extended high-speed operation without cooling system maintenance may accelerate head gasket or exhaust port cracking. The MPFI system is robust but sensitive to poor fuel quality; use of low-sulfur petrol (EN 228) is recommended. Pre-1996 units should have cylinder head integrity inspected per PSA TSB-ENG-0311.

Data Verification Notes

Oil Specs: Requires SAE 10W-40 meeting ACEA A2 specification (PSA SIB 03 11 01). Compatible with API SL in non-turbo applications.

Emissions: Euro 2 certification applies to all models (1993–1998) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/4321).

Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. Output consistent across fuel grades meeting EN 228.

Primary Sources

PSA Technical Information System (TIS): Docs XU92C-001, XU92C-002, XU92C-003, TSB-ENG-0311

VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/4321)

ISO International: ISO 1585 Road vehicles — Passenger cars — Test code for determination of net power

D2C-XU92C Compatible Models

The Citroen D2C (XU92C) was used across Citroen's Xantia/605 platforms with longitudinal mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced torque mounts in the 605 and revised intake manifolds in the Xantia SX-and from 1996 the facelifted Xantia models adopted updated engine management software, creating minor calibration differences. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.

Make:
Citroen
Years:
1993-1998
Models:
Xantia
Variants:
SX 16V
View Source
PSA Group PT-2015
Make:
Citroen
Years:
1993-1998
Models:
605
Variants:
V6i (4-cyl variant)
View Source
PSA Group PT-2015
Identification Guidance

Locate the engine code stamped vertically on the left-side cylinder block near the exhaust manifold (PSA TIS XU9-1868). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('F' for XU92C). Pre-1996 models have red valve covers; post-1996 units use black valve covers. Critical differentiation from XU10: D2C (XU92C) uses a 1,868 cc displacement with 86.0 mm bore, while XU10 has 1,998 cc and 87.0 mm bore. Service parts require production date verification - timing belts for pre-1996 models are incompatible with later revisions due to pulley redesign (PSA SIB 04 05 10).

Identification Details

Evidence:

PSA TIS Doc. XU9-1868

Location:

Stamped vertically on the left-side cylinder block near the exhaust manifold (PSA TIS XU9-1868).

Visual Cues:

  • Pre-1996: Red valve cover
  • Post-1996: Black valve cover
Compatibility Notes

Evidence:

PSA SIB 04 05 10

Timing Components:

Timing belts and pulleys for pre-1996 D2C engines are not compatible with post-1996 revisions due to altered tensioner geometry.
Cylinder Head Cracking

Issue:

Early D2C (XU92C) engines experienced cylinder head cracking around exhaust ports due to thermal stress under sustained high load or cooling system neglect.

Evidence:

PSA TSB-ENG-0311

Recommendation:

Inspect head for micro-cracks and replace with updated casting per PSA TSB-ENG-0311.

Common Reliability Issues - CITROEN D2C-XU92C

The D2C (XU92C)'s primary reliability risk is cylinder head cracking on early builds, with elevated incidence in high-load operation with delayed coolant changes. Internal PSA quality reports from 1997 indicated a notable number of pre-1996 engines requiring head replacement before 150,000 km, while UK DVSA records show timing belt neglect as a leading cause of engine seizure. Prolonged motorway driving and coolant degradation increase thermal stress, making cooling system maintenance critical.

Cylinder head cracking
Symptoms: Coolant loss, white exhaust smoke, overheating, misfires, elevated hydrocarbon emissions.
Cause: Thermal stress concentration at exhaust port roots due to prolonged high-temperature operation or degraded coolant reducing heat transfer.
Fix: Replace cylinder head with updated OEM casting per TSB; flush cooling system and use PSA-approved coolant at 30,000 km intervals.
Timing belt failure
Symptoms: Engine won't start, metallic knocking, bent valves, zero compression.
Cause: Belt degradation beyond 120,000 km or 6 years; tensioner or idler pulley seizure causing slippage or breakage.
Fix: Replace timing belt, tensioner, idlers, and water pump per PSA maintenance schedule; verify cam/crank alignment after installation.
Idle speed instability
Symptoms: Fluctuating idle, stalling at stops, ECU warning light, poor throttle response.
Cause: Carbon buildup in throttle body or idle air control valve (IACV), disrupting airflow regulation.
Fix: Clean throttle body and IACV with approved solvent; perform ECU adaptation reset using diagnostic tool.
Coolant leaks from water pump
Symptoms: Coolant smell, low reservoir level, visible leaks at front of engine, overheating.
Cause: Age-related seal failure in water pump housing due to material degradation or cavitation.
Fix: Replace water pump with OEM-specified unit; bleed cooling system thoroughly and inspect for impeller damage.
Research Basis

Analysis derived from PSA technical bulletins (1993-1998) and UK DVSA failure statistics (1998-2005). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.

Frequently Asked Questions about CITROEN D2C-XU92C

Find answers to most commonly asked questions about CITROEN D2C-XU92C.

Research Resources

Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references

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Last Updated: 16 August 2025

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