The Citroën ES9J4S is a 3,198 cc, V6 petrol engine produced between 1999 and 2006. It belongs to the PSA ES engine family, featuring a DOHC 24-valve configuration and sequential multi-point fuel injection (SMPFI). Delivering 155 kW (211 PS), it was engineered for refined performance and smooth power delivery in mid-size and executive vehicles.
Fitted to models such as the C5, C6, and Xantia, the ES9J4S was designed for drivers seeking a balance of quiet operation, strong mid-range torque, and elevated driving comfort. Emissions compliance was achieved through a three-way catalytic converter and closed-loop lambda control, enabling Euro 3 compliance across its production run for all European-market vehicles.
One documented characteristic is the use of a timing belt with a 90,000 km or 6-year replacement interval, as specified in PSA Service Bulletin 1745. Unlike earlier V6 units, the ES9J4S features hydraulic tappets eliminating the need for periodic valve clearance adjustments. This design shift reflects PSA’s focus on reducing maintenance demands while improving long-term reliability.
All production years 1999–2006 meet Euro 3 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5679).
The Citroën ES9J4S is a 3,198 cc V6 petrol engine designed for mid-size and executive passenger vehicles (1999–2006). It features a 24-valve DOHC valvetrain and sequential MPFI to deliver smooth performance and refined drivability. Engineered to meet Euro 3 standards, it balances comfort with environmental compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 3,198 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | V6, DOHC, 24-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 87.0 mm × 88.8 mm | |
| Power output | 155 kW (211 PS) @ 6,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 300 Nm @ 4,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Sequential multi-point fuel injection (SMPFI) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 3 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.8:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Timing belt (DOHC, front-mounted) | |
| Oil type | Total Multis 10W-40 (ACEA A3/B4) | |
| Dry weight | 184 kg |
The ES9J4S provides smooth, high-RPM power ideal for highway cruising but demands strict adherence to the 90,000 km or 6-year timing belt replacement interval to prevent valve damage. Total Multis 10W-40 oil is recommended due to its compatibility with the hydraulic tappet system. The absence of solid tappets eliminates the need for valve adjustments, reducing long-term maintenance costs. The SMPFI system ensures precise fuel metering, though injector cleaning may be beneficial after 100,000 km. Emissions compliance depends on catalytic converter health and oxygen sensor accuracy; a failed cat will trigger fault codes and reduce fuel economy. Cold starts are smooth due to closed-loop lambda control, but short-trip driving may lead to carbon buildup on intake valves.
Oil Specs: Requires ACEA A3/B4 specification. Total Multis 10W-40 is OEM-specified (PSA SIB 1745). Hydraulic tappet oils are required.
Emissions: Euro 3 certification applies to all 1999–2006 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5679). No Euro 2 or Euro 4 variants exist for this engine code.
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. Output consistent across all markets (PSA Group PT-2019).
PSA Technical Information System (TIS): Docs ES9-TS1, ES9-FI2, SIB 1745
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5679)
ISO 1585: Road vehicles — Test method for the measurement of fuel consumption
The Citroën ES9J4S was used across Citroën's C5/Xantia platforms with transverse mounting and shared with Peugeot under internal PSA engineering agreements. This engine received model-specific calibrations-adapted throttle response in the C6 and revised intake manifolds in the C5-and from 2001 the updated engine management software created service part distinctions. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front-facing side of the cylinder block, near the timing belt cover (PSA TIS ES9-TS1). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('V' for 3.0i V6). Pre-2001 models use a silver cam cover; post-2001 units adopted a black finish. Critical differentiation from L7X: ES9J4S has a 24-valve DOHC head and front-mounted timing belt, while L7X units are 12-valve SOHC engines. Service parts require VIN-based verification—timing belts for pre-2001 models are compatible with all ES9J4S units, but ECU calibrations may require pairing.
The ES9J4S's primary reliability risk is timing belt failure due to missed service intervals, with elevated incidence in high-mileage applications. PSA internal reports from 2004 noted increased failure rates in units exceeding 100,000 km without belt replacement, while UK DVSA records show valve train faults as a leading cause of MOT failure for pre-2007 petrol engines. Extended oil change intervals and poor fuel quality accelerate wear, making adherence to maintenance schedules critical.
Analysis derived from PSA technical bulletins (1999-2006) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2000-2010). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about CITROEN ES9J4S.
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CITROEN Official Site
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EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.
DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
WLTP and RDE testing procedures for emissions certification.
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