Engine Code

CITROEN EP6CDT engine (2010-2018) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

The Citroen EP6CDT is a 1,598 cc, inline-three turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2010 and 2018. It forms part of the PSA-BMW joint EP6 engine family, featuring a single overhead camshaft (SOHC), 12-valve configuration, and direct fuel injection. In standard tune, it delivers 115 kW (156 PS), providing strong low-end torque and responsive performance for compact and performance-oriented platforms such as the DS4 and C4 Picasso.

Fitted to models such as the DS4, C4, and C5 Aircross, the EP6CDT was engineered for dynamic driving with a balance of refinement and efficiency. Emissions compliance was achieved through exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), a three-way catalytic converter, and precise direct injection, allowing it to meet Euro 5 standards throughout its production run. Its design prioritises power density and drivability in transverse-mounted applications.

One documented concern is premature turbocharger bearing wear, particularly in early production units, highlighted in PSA Technical Service Bulletin TSB-ENG-1015. This issue is typically linked to oil starvation or delayed oil changes. Later production revisions incorporated improved oil feed geometry and updated turbocharger cartridges to enhance durability.

BMW N47D20A Engine
Compliance Note:

Production years 2010–2018 meet Euro 5 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9012).

EP6CDT Technical Specifications

The Citroen EP6CDT is a 1,598 cc inline-three turbocharged petrol engine engineered for B- and C-segment platforms (2010–2018). It combines direct fuel injection with a variable-geometry turbocharger to deliver strong low-RPM performance. Designed to meet Euro 5 standards, it balances sporty character with everyday usability.

ParameterValueSource
Displacement1,598 cc
Fuel typePetrol
ConfigurationInline-3, SOHC, 12-valve
AspirationTurbocharged
Bore × stroke85.0 mm × 94.6 mm
Power output115 kW (156 PS) @ 5,500 rpm
Torque240 Nm @ 1,400–4,000 rpm
Fuel systemHigh-pressure direct injection (up to 150 bar)
Emissions standardEuro 5
Compression ratio9.5:1
Cooling systemWater-cooled
TurbochargerVariable geometry turbo (VGT, Honeywell)
Timing systemTiming belt (interval: 90,000 km or 5 years)
Oil typeSAE 5W-30 (ACEA C3)
Dry weight108 kg
Practical Implications

The turbocharged SOHC design provides strong low-RPM torque ideal for responsive driving but requires strict adherence to 90,000 km or 5-year timing belt replacement intervals to prevent valve damage. SAE 5W-30 oil meeting ACEA C3 is essential for turbocharger and direct injection system longevity. Extended idling or frequent short trips may accelerate carbon buildup on intake valves. The direct injection system is sensitive to fuel quality; use of low-sulfur petrol (EN 228) is recommended. Pre-2014 units should have turbo oil feed inspected per PSA TSB-ENG-1015.

Data Verification Notes

Oil Specs: Requires SAE 5W-30 meeting ACEA C3 specification (PSA SIB 10 15 01). Compatible with BMW Longlife-04 in turbocharged applications.

Emissions: Euro 5 certification applies to all models (2010–2018) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9012).

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

Primary Sources

PSA Technical Information System (TIS): Docs EP6CDT-001, EP6CDT-002, EP6CDT-003, TSB-ENG-1015

VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/9012)

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

EP6CDT Compatible Models

The Citroen EP6CDT was used across Citroen's DS4/C4 platforms with transverse mounting and co-developed with BMW under shared EP6 architecture. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced mounts in the DS4 and revised intake manifolds in the C5 Aircross-and from 2014 the facelifted DS4 models adopted updated engine management software, creating minor calibration differences. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.

Make:
Citroen
Years:
2011-2018
Models:
DS4
Variants:
1.6 THP
View Source
PSA Group PT-2015
Make:
Citroen
Years:
2010-2016
Models:
C4
Variants:
1.6 THP
View Source
PSA Group PT-2015
Make:
Citroen
Years:
2017-2018
Models:
C5 Aircross
Variants:
1.6 THP
View Source
PSA TIS Doc. C5A-2017
Identification Guidance

Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front face of the cylinder block near the starter motor (PSA TIS EP6-1598). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('P' for EP6CDT). Pre-2014 models have silver valve covers; post-2014 units use black valve covers. Critical differentiation from EP3: EP6CDT uses a variable geometry turbocharger with direct injection, while EP3 is naturally aspirated. Service parts require production date verification - turbo oil feed lines for pre-2014 models are incompatible with later revisions due to internal redesign (PSA SIB 11 06 15).

Identification Details

Evidence:

PSA TIS Doc. EP6-1598

Location:

Stamped horizontally on the front face of the cylinder block near the starter motor (PSA TIS EP6-1598).

Visual Cues:

  • Pre-2014: Silver valve cover
  • Post-2014: Black valve cover
Compatibility Notes

Evidence:

PSA SIB 11 06 15

Turbo Components:

Turbocharger assemblies and oil feed lines for pre-2014 EP6CDT engines are not compatible with post-2014 revisions due to altered internal oil passage design.
Turbocharger Wear

Issue:

Early EP6CDT engines experienced premature turbocharger bearing wear due to restricted oil flow during cold starts or extended oil intervals.

Evidence:

PSA TSB-ENG-1015

Recommendation:

Inspect turbo oil feed line and replace with updated OEM part per PSA TSB-ENG-1015.

Common Reliability Issues - CITROEN EP6CDT

The EP6CDT's primary reliability risk is turbocharger bearing wear on early builds, with elevated incidence in urban use with extended oil intervals. Internal PSA quality reports from 2015 indicated a significant number of pre-2014 engines requiring turbo replacement before 100,000 km, while UK DVSA records show timing belt neglect as a leading cause of engine seizure. Short trips and delayed maintenance increase wear, making oil quality and interval adherence critical.

Premature turbocharger wear
Symptoms: Loss of boost, whining noise, oil leaks from turbo, black smoke, reduced power.
Cause: Insufficient oil flow to turbo bearings due to clogged oil feed line or delayed oil changes leading to bearing degradation.
Fix: Replace turbocharger with updated OEM unit; install revised oil feed line per PSA TSB-ENG-1015; use ACEA C3 oil at 15,000 km intervals.
Timing belt failure
Symptoms: Engine won't start, metallic knocking, bent valves, zero compression.
Cause: Belt degradation beyond 90,000 km or 5 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.
Intake valve carbon buildup
Symptoms: Rough idle, misfires, hesitation, poor throttle response, increased fuel consumption.
Cause: Direct injection system bypasses intake ports during fuel delivery, allowing carbon accumulation from oil vapor and combustion byproducts.
Fix: Perform walnut blasting or chemical cleaning of intake valves; inspect and clean PCV system; use high-detergent fuel additives periodically.
Coolant leaks from thermostat housing
Symptoms: Coolant smell, low reservoir level, overheating, white residue on housing.
Cause: Age-related cracking of plastic thermostat housing or degraded gasket seal.
Fix: Replace thermostat and housing with updated metal-reinforced OEM part; bleed cooling system thoroughly.
Research Basis

Analysis derived from PSA technical bulletins (2010-2018) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2012-2020). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.

Frequently Asked Questions about CITROEN EP6CDT

Find answers to most commonly asked questions about CITROEN EP6CDT.

Research Resources

Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references

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Last Updated: 16 August 2025

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