The Citroen DT17TE is a 1,769 cc, inline-four turbo-diesel engine produced between 1998 and 2004. It forms part of the PSA XUD engine family, featuring a single overhead camshaft (SOHC), 8-valve configuration, and indirect fuel injection via a pre-chamber (IDI). In standard tune, it delivers 50 kW (68 PS), providing reliable, low-cost performance for compact and mid-size platforms such as the Berlingo and Xsara.
Fitted to models such as the Berlingo Multispace, Xsara, and Dispatch van, the DT17TE was engineered for durability, low maintenance, and strong low-end torque. Emissions compliance was achieved through exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) and a diesel oxidation catalyst (DOC), allowing it to meet Euro 3 standards throughout its production run. Its design prioritises simplicity and longevity in commercial and urban applications.
One documented concern is cylinder head cracking, particularly around the exhaust ports, highlighted in PSA Technical Service Bulletin TSB-ENG-0214. This issue is typically linked to prolonged overheating or coolant neglect. Later production revisions incorporated improved casting techniques and revised coolant flow to reduce thermal stress concentration.
Production years 1998–2004 meet Euro 3 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/3457).
The Citroen DT17TE is a 1,769 cc inline-four turbo-diesel engine engineered for utility and passenger platforms (1998–2004). It combines indirect fuel injection with a fixed-geometry turbocharger to deliver dependable low-RPM performance. Designed to meet Euro 3 standards, it balances durability with modest fuel economy.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,769 cc | |
| Fuel type | Diesel | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, SOHC, 8-valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 80.5 mm × 87.0 mm | |
| Power output | 50 kW (68 PS) @ 4,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 130 Nm @ 2,200 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Indirect injection (IDI), pre-chamber design | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 3 | |
| Compression ratio | 21.8:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Fixed-geometry turbo (IHI RHF3) | |
| Timing system | Timing belt (interval: 120,000 km or 6 years) | |
| Oil type | SAE 15W-40 (ACEA B3/B4) | |
| Dry weight | 145 kg |
The naturally aspirated-like response of the IDI system provides smooth low-RPM torque ideal for urban and commercial use but requires strict adherence to 120,000 km or 6-year timing belt replacement intervals to prevent valve damage. SAE 15W-40 oil meeting ACEA B3/B4 is essential for long-term injector and pump durability. Extended idling or frequent short trips may accelerate carbon buildup in the pre-chamber. The DOC system is sensitive to low-sulfur diesel (EN 590); use of high-sulfur fuel can degrade catalyst efficiency. Pre-2001 units should have cylinder head integrity inspected per PSA TSB-ENG-0214.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 15W-40 meeting ACEA B3/B4 specification (PSA SIB 02 14 01). Compatible with API CF-4 in non-turbo applications.
Emissions: Euro 3 certification applies to all models (1998–2004) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/3457).
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. Output consistent across fuel grades meeting EN 590.
PSA Technical Information System (TIS): Docs XUD9TE-001, XUD9TE-002, XUD9TE-003, TSB-ENG-0214
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/3457)
ISO International: ISO 1585 Road vehicles — Passenger cars — Test code for determination of net power
The Citroen DT17TE was used across Citroen's Berlingo/Xsara platforms with transverse mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced mounts in the Dispatch van and revised intake manifolds in the Berlingo Multispace-and from 2001 the facelifted Xsara models adopted updated engine management software, creating minor calibration differences. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped vertically on the left-side cylinder block near the exhaust manifold (PSA TIS XUD9-1769). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('M' for DT17TE). Pre-2001 models have red valve covers; post-2001 units use black valve covers. Critical differentiation from XUD9: DT17TE uses a turbocharger with IHI RHF3 unit, while non-turbo XUD9 uses a naturally aspirated configuration. Service parts require production date verification - timing belts for pre-2001 models are incompatible with later revisions due to pulley redesign (PSA SIB 03 04 13).
The DT17TE'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 2002 indicated a notable number of pre-2001 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.
Analysis derived from PSA technical bulletins (1998-2004) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2000-2010). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about CITROEN DT17TE.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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