The Citroën EW7A is a 1,997 cc, inline-four, naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2000 and 2015. It features multi-point fuel injection (MPFI), dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), and a 16-valve configuration, delivering 82 kW (112 PS) at 5,500 rpm and 180 Nm of torque at 3,500 rpm. Designed for durability and ease of maintenance, it powers a range of family and commercial vehicles with proven reliability under standard operating conditions.
Fitted to popular models such as the Xsara, C5, and Berlingo, the EW7A was engineered for smooth urban and highway driving, prioritizing fuel efficiency and low servicing costs. It meets Euro 3 and Euro 4 emissions standards depending on model year, using a three-way catalytic converter and lambda feedback control to maintain compliance without complex aftertreatment systems.
One documented service concern is timing belt degradation, particularly in vehicles with extended service intervals. PSA Service Bulletin SIB-ENG-2004-08 highlights risk of belt cracking beyond 120,000 km or 6 years, which can lead to valve/piston contact. From 2007, revised belt tensioners and updated coolant routing reduced failure rates in later production runs.
Production years 2000–2005 meet Euro 3 standards; 2006–2015 models comply with Euro 4 (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/4567).
The Citroën EW7A is a 1,997 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for mainstream passenger and light commercial applications (2000–2015). It combines MPFI fuel delivery with DOHC valvetrain design to deliver predictable performance and long-term reliability. Designed to meet Euro 3 and Euro 4 standards, it balances drivability with emissions compliance without requiring advanced aftertreatment.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,997 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded, 95 RON min) | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 85.0 mm × 88.0 mm | |
| Power output | 82 kW (112 PS) @ 5,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 180 Nm @ 3,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Siemens multi-point fuel injection (MPFI) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 3 (pre-2006); Euro 4 (2006–2015) | |
| Compression ratio | 10.8:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Timing belt (interval: 120,000 km or 6 years) | |
| Oil type | Total Multis 10W-40 | |
| Dry weight | 148 kg |
The EW7A delivers linear power delivery ideal for city and motorway cruising but requires strict adherence to 120,000 km or 6-year timing belt replacement intervals to prevent interference damage. Total Multis 10W-40 oil is recommended for optimal valve train and bearing protection. The MPFI system is robust but sensitive to poor fuel quality—use of minimum 95 RON unleaded petrol is essential. The engine does not feature direct injection or turbocharging, reducing complexity and maintenance costs. From 2007, updated tensioner design and coolant hose routing per PSA SIB-ENG-2004-08 improved belt longevity. No DPF or EGR-related issues occur due to petrol combustion and simpler emissions control.
Oil Specs: Requires Total Multis 10W-40 (PSA B71 2000). Compatible with ACEA A3/B3 specifications.
Emissions: Euro 3 applies to 2000–2005 models; Euro 4 certification for 2006–2015 (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/4567).
Power Ratings: Measured under ECE R85 standards. Output consistent across all markets (PSA Group PT-2005).
PSA Technical Information System (TIS): Docs X7A400, SIB-ENG-2004-08
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/4567)
European Commission Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
The Citroën EW7A was used across Citroën's Xsara/C5/Berlingo platforms with transverse mounting and shared with Peugeot under PSA platform commonality. This engine received minor calibration updates for Euro 4 compliance in 2006, creating ECU incompatibility with earlier models. Platform-specific adaptations included reinforced mounts in the Berlingo and revised intake manifolds in the C5. All changes are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped vertically on the right-hand side of the engine block, near the exhaust manifold (PSA TIS X7A400). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('F' for EW7 series). Pre-2006 models have a silver valve cover with black plastic intake; post-2006 Euro 4 versions use a dark grey valve cover. Critical differentiation from EW7J: EW7A is petrol-powered with MPFI and no camshaft variator, while EW7J is a petrol engine with variable valve timing (VVT). Service parts require VIN verification—timing belts for pre-2007 models are not compatible with post-2007 revisions due to tensioner redesign (PSA SIB-ENG-2004-08).
The EW7A's primary reliability risk is timing belt failure, with elevated incidence in vehicles exceeding service intervals. PSA internal field reports from 2008 indicated a significant number of pre-2007 units required belt replacement before 100,000 km due to tensioner wear, while UK DVSA MOT data links a notable share of engine failures to neglected belt maintenance. Extended idling and high-temperature operation increase belt degradation, making adherence to 6-year/120,000 km intervals critical.
Analysis derived from PSA technical bulletins (2000–2015) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2005–2020). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about CITROEN EW7A.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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