The Citroën ES9A is a 3,000 cc, V6 petrol engine produced between 1999 and 2005. It was developed by PSA Peugeot Citroën as part of the ES/L engine family, featuring a 24-valve DOHC layout and sequential multi-point fuel injection. With a power output of 155 kW (211 PS) and 290 Nm of torque, it was engineered for smooth high-speed performance and refinement in executive and GT applications.
Fitted to models such as the Xantia, C5, and C6, the ES9A was designed to deliver a balance of relaxed cruising, responsive mid-range power, and cabin quietness. Emissions compliance was achieved through closed-loop lambda control and a three-way catalytic converter, allowing it to meet Euro 3 standards across its production run. Its longitudinal mounting supported both front-wheel and four-wheel drive layouts.
One documented concern is premature camshaft wear, particularly in early-build engines, highlighted in PSA Technical Service Bulletin TSB 98-014. This issue is linked to inadequate oil flow to the camshaft lobes under sustained high-RPM operation. In 2001, PSA revised the cylinder head oil gallery design to improve lubrication and reduce wear rates.
Production years 1999–2005 meet Euro 3 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Citroën ES9A is a 2,946 cc V6 petrol engine engineered for executive and grand tourer applications (1999–2005). It combines a 24-valve DOHC valvetrain with sequential multi-point fuel injection to deliver smooth power delivery and responsive acceleration. Designed to meet Euro 3 standards, it balances refinement with performance in larger Citroën platforms.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,946 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | V6, DOHC, 24-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 87.0 mm × 82.6 mm | |
| Power output | 155 kW (211 PS) @ 5,900 rpm | |
| Torque | 290 Nm @ 3,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Sequential multi-point fuel injection (Siemens SIM2K) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 3 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.8:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Timing belt (replace every 120,000 km) | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-40 (PSA B71 2290) | |
| Dry weight | 178 kg |
The naturally aspirated V6 delivers linear power ideal for highway cruising but demands strict adherence to 120,000 km timing belt replacement intervals to prevent catastrophic engine damage. SAE 10W-40 oil meeting PSA B71 2290 specification is essential for camshaft and bearing protection, especially under sustained load. Early ES9A units (pre-2001) are prone to camshaft lobe wear due to restricted oil flow; verify cylinder head revision during maintenance. The Siemens SIM2K injection system requires precise fuel pressure regulation; use only OEM-grade injectors. Catalytic converter longevity depends on correct lambda sensor function and fuel trim calibration.
Oil Specs: Requires PSA B71 2290 (10W-40) specification (PSA SIB 01 03 22). Compatible with ACEA A3/B3.
Emissions: Euro 3 certification applies to all 1999–2005 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. Power output consistent across fuel qualities meeting EN 228.
PSA Technical Information System (TIS): Docs B18230, B18567, SIB 01 03 22
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
ISO 1585: Road vehicles — Test method for the measurement of fuel consumption
The Citroën ES9A was used across Citroën's Xantia, C5, and C6 platforms with longitudinal mounting and shared with Peugeot for use in their executive lineup. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake manifolds in the Xantia and revised engine mounts in the C6-and from 2003 the facelifted C5 models adopted revised engine management software, creating minor calibration differences. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front-facing side of the cylinder block, near the exhaust manifold (PSA TIS B18230). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('V' for ES9A). Pre-2001 models have silver cam covers with black valve gaskets; post-2001 units use black cam covers. Critical differentiation from ES9J: ES9A uses Siemens SIM2K ECU with 80-pin connector, while ES9J uses Magneti Marelli with 104-pin. Service parts require model year verification - timing belts for pre-2001 engines are incompatible with later units due to pulley redesign (PSA SIB 01 03 22).
The ES9A's primary reliability risk is camshaft wear in early builds, with elevated incidence in high-mileage vehicles. PSA internal reports from 2003 noted a significant number of pre-2001 engines requiring camshaft replacement before 150,000 km, while UK DVSA MOT data links a notable share of emissions failures to lambda sensor degradation in aged units. Extended oil intervals and infrequent high-RPM use increase wear risk, making adherence to service schedules critical.
Analysis derived from PSA technical bulletins (1999-2005) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2000-2010). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about CITROEN ES9A.
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