The Citroën EW10J4 is a 1,997 cc, inline-four petrol engine produced between 2001 and 2015. It belongs to the PSA EW10 family, shared across multiple models in the group’s lineup, and features a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) layout with 16 valves and multi-point fuel injection (MPFI). In standard tune it delivers 88 kW (120 PS), providing balanced performance for mid-sized passenger vehicles, with smooth power delivery and strong mid-range torque.
Fitted across Citroën’s C5, C6, and Xsara Picasso platforms, the EW10J4 was engineered for refinement and reliability in both urban and highway driving conditions. It meets Euro 3 emissions standards, with later variants achieving Euro 4 compliance through revised engine management and exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) calibration. The engine’s longitudinal mounting and robust design made it suitable for both sedan and MPV applications.
One documented reliability concern is timing belt failure due to delayed replacement, which can result in valve and piston damage. This issue, referenced in PSA Service Information Bulletin SIB 10-CIT-07, is primarily linked to extended service intervals or missed maintenance. From 2007 onward, PSA introduced revised tensioner designs and updated inspection protocols to improve timing system longevity.
Production years 2001–2005 meet Euro 3 standards; 2006–2015 models meet Euro 4 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5679).
The Citroën EW10J4 is a 1,997 cc inline-four petrol engine engineered for mid-size and luxury passenger vehicles (2001–2015). It combines DOHC 16-valve architecture with multi-point fuel injection to deliver smooth power delivery and mid-range responsiveness. Designed to meet Euro 3 and Euro 4 emissions standards, it balances comfort-oriented driving with regulatory compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,997 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 85.0 mm × 88.0 mm | |
| Power output | 88 kW (120 PS) @ 5,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 190 Nm @ 2,750 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi-point fuel injection (MPFI) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 3 (pre-2006); Euro 4 (2006–2015) | |
| Compression ratio | 11.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | N/A | |
| Timing system | Timing belt (150,000 km / 120-month interval) | |
| Oil type | Total Multis 5W-30 (ACEA A3/B4) | |
| Dry weight | 132 kg |
The EW10J4 delivers smooth, linear power ideal for relaxed driving, but requires strict adherence to the 150,000 km or 10-year timing belt service interval to prevent catastrophic engine damage. Total Multis 5W-30 oil meeting ACEA A3/B4 specifications is recommended to maintain valve train lubrication and engine longevity. The MPFI system is robust but sensitive to carbon buildup on intake valves—use of detergent-enriched fuel and periodic induction cleaning per PSA maintenance guidelines helps maintain performance. EGR and throttle body deposits are common after 120,000 km, leading to idle instability; cleaning procedures are documented in PSA TIS. Engine mounts should be inspected regularly, especially on higher-mileage C5 and C6 models, to prevent vibration and misalignment.
Oil Specs: Requires ACEA A3/B4 5W-30 specification (PSA SIB 10-CIT-07). Compatible with MB 229.3 where permitted.
Emissions: Euro 4 certification applies to models from 2006 onward (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5679).
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. Output consistent across markets with 95 RON fuel (PSA Group PT-2019).
PSA Technical Information System (TIS): Docs EW10-TECH-01, EW10-TECH-02, SIB 10-CIT-07
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5679)
ISO International Standards: ISO 1585 Road vehicles — Engine test code — Net power
The Citroën EW10J4 was used across Citroën's D-segment and luxury platforms with longitudinal mounting and shared with Peugeot under intra-group standardization. This engine received model-specific tuning—refined idle control in the C6 and enhanced torque mapping in the C5—and from 2006, the facelifted Xsara Picasso adopted updated EGR calibration, creating interchange limits. Shared architecture enabled Peugeot's 406 and 407 to use identical core components. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped vertically on the left-side engine block near the exhaust manifold (PSA TIS EW10-ID-01). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine family ('F' for EW10 series). Pre-2006 models have a silver engine cover with black intake plenum; post-2006 units use a full black cover. Critical differentiation from EW10J4S: EW10J4 lacks variable valve timing (VVT), visible by the absence of camshaft phasers. Service parts require model-year verification—timing kits for pre-2007 engines are incompatible with post-2007 variants due to revised tensioner design (PSA SIB 10-CIT-07).
The EW10J4's primary reliability risk is timing belt failure on neglected engines, with elevated incidence in high-mileage C5 and C6 models. PSA internal field reports from 2010 indicated over 12% of pre-2007 units required timing repairs before 180,000 km, while UK DVSA MOT data shows EGR/throttle faults as leading causes of emissions-related failures. Extended idling and poor maintenance increase carbon and wear, making service adherence and fluid quality critical.
Analysis derived from PSA technical bulletins (2001-2015) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2010-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about CITROEN EW10J4.
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