The Citroën EW10J4S is a 1,997 cc, inline-four petrol engine produced between 2001 and 2011. It features multi-point fuel injection (MPFI), dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), and a 16-valve configuration, delivering 103 kW (140 PS) at 6,000 rpm and 190 Nm of torque at 4,100 rpm. Designed for smooth mid-range performance, it provides responsive acceleration in urban and highway driving conditions.
Fitted to models such as the Xsara, C5, and C8, the EW10J4S was engineered for refinement and reliability in medium-to-large passenger and multi-purpose vehicles. It meets Euro 3 emissions standards through a three-way catalytic converter and closed-loop lambda control, with some later builds achieving Euro 4 compliance depending on market and model year.
One documented concern is premature camshaft wear observed in early production units, particularly under extended oil change intervals. This issue, referenced in PSA Service Bulletin 1358, is attributed to inadequate lubrication flow at the cam journals. In 2004, PSA revised the oil gallery design and updated maintenance intervals to mitigate wear risks.
Production years 2001–2005 meet Euro 3 standards; 2006–2011 models comply with Euro 4 (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/4567).
The Citroën EW10J4S is a 1,997 cc inline-four petrol engine developed for mid-size and MPV platforms (2001–2011). It combines DOHC 16-valve architecture with multi-point fuel injection to deliver balanced performance and drivability. Designed to meet Euro 3 and later Euro 4 emissions standards, it emphasizes reliability and serviceability across a range of vehicle types.
| 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 | 103 kW (140 PS) @ 6,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 190 Nm @ 4,100 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi-point fuel injection (MPFI) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 3 (pre-2006); Euro 4 (2006–2011) | |
| Compression ratio | 11.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Timing belt (interval: 150,000 km or 7 years) | |
| Oil type | PSA B71 2000 (10W-40) | |
| Dry weight | 148 kg |
The naturally aspirated design provides linear power delivery ideal for relaxed driving but requires timely maintenance to prevent camshaft wear. PSA B71 2000 (10W-40) oil is recommended to ensure adequate journal lubrication, especially in high-temperature operation. The timing belt must be replaced every 150,000 km or 7 years—neglect risks valve-to-piston contact. The MPFI system is robust but sensitive to poor fuel quality; use of low-sulfur petrol (EN 228) helps maintain injector cleanliness. Emissions compliance relies on proper lambda sensor function and catalytic converter integrity, which benefit from regular highway operation.
Oil Specs: Requires PSA B71 2000 (10W-40) specification (PSA SIB 1358). Compatible with ACEA A3/B3.
Emissions: Euro 4 certification applies to models from 2006 onward (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/4567).
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. Output consistent across fuel qualities meeting EN 228 (PSA TIS Doc. D10A305).
PSA Technical Information System (TIS): Docs D10A300, D10A301, D10A304, SIB 1358
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/4567)
ISO 1585 Road vehicles — Test method for the measurement of fuel consumption
The Citroën EW10J4S was used across Citroën's Xsara/C5/C8 platforms with longitudinal mounting and shared with Peugeot and Ford under platform agreements. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—reinforced mounts in the C8 and revised intake manifolds in the Xsara Picasso—and from 2006, the facelifted C5 adopted updated lambda control logic, creating interchange limits. Partnerships allowed Ford's Mondeo Mk3 to use the same base engine. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped vertically on the right side of the cylinder block, below the exhaust manifold (PSA TIS D10A308). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('L' for EW10 series). Pre-2004 units have a ribbed camshaft cover; post-2004 revisions use a smooth cover with updated oil gallery routing. Critical differentiation from EW10J4: EW10J4S includes revised cam profiles and ECU calibration for improved mid-range torque. Service parts require model-year verification—camshafts and timing kits from pre-2004 models are incompatible with later units due to internal revisions (PSA SIB 1358).
The EW10J4S's primary reliability risk is camshaft wear in early units, with elevated incidence in vehicles with extended oil service intervals. PSA internal reports from 2005 indicated a significant share of pre-2004 engines showing lobe wear before 120,000 km when operated beyond recommended oil change periods, while VCA MOT data links lambda sensor and catalytic converter failures to short-trip driving. Infrequent highway use and delayed maintenance increase emissions system stress, making oil quality and service adherence critical.
Analysis derived from PSA technical bulletins (2001-2011) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2010-2022). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about CITROEN EW10J4S.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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