The Citroën F1CE3481E, known internally as the F30DTE, is a 2,999 cc, inline-five turbo-diesel engine produced between 2005 and 2011. It belongs to the Fiat F1C engine family and features a DOHC 20-valve configuration with common-rail direct injection and variable geometry turbocharging. In standard tune, it delivers 125 kW (170 PS) and 380 Nm of torque, providing strong low-end driveability and robust towing performance.
Fitted to models such as the C8 and Relay, the F30DTE was engineered for commercial and family MPV applications requiring high torque and durability. It meets Euro 4 emissions standards through exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), a diesel particulate filter (DPF), and closed-loop lambda control. Paired with a 6-speed manual transmission, it supports heavy-load operation with smooth power delivery and improved fuel efficiency over larger V6 diesels.
One documented concern is premature wear of the timing belt tensioner, particularly in high-temperature environments or with extended service intervals. This issue, referenced in PSA Service Bulletin SIB-ENG-04-030, can lead to belt slippage or failure if not addressed. From 2008 onward, revised tensioner materials and updated coolant routing were implemented across the F1C series to enhance long-term reliability.
All F1CE3481E (F30DTE) production (2005–2011) complies with Euro 4 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7120).
The Citroën F1CE3481E (F30DTE) is a 2,999 cc inline-five turbo-diesel engine engineered for light commercial and large MPV platforms (2005–2011). It combines DOHC 20-valve architecture with high-pressure common-rail injection and variable geometry turbocharging to deliver strong low-RPM torque. Designed to meet Euro 4 standards, it balances load-carrying capability with regulated emissions control.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,999 cc | |
| Fuel type | Diesel | |
| Configuration | Inline-5, DOHC, 20-valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 93.0 mm × 92.0 mm | |
| Power output | 125 kW (170 PS) @ 3,600 rpm | |
| Torque | 380 Nm @ 1,600–2,600 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch CRS 2.0 common-rail (up to 1,800 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 4 | |
| Compression ratio | 17.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled, thermostatically controlled | |
| Turbocharger | Single variable-geometry turbo (Garrett GT1749V) | |
| Timing system | Timing belt (replacement interval: 180,000 km or 10 years) | |
| Oil type | SAE 5W-40, ACEA B4 | |
| Dry weight | 208 kg |
The inline-five turbo-diesel design provides strong low-RPM torque ideal for loaded driving, but requires strict adherence to 180,000 km or 10-year timing belt service intervals to prevent interference-related engine damage. SAE 5W-40 ACEA B4 oil is recommended for optimal valve train and turbocharger protection. The Bosch CRS 2.0 system demands ultra-low-sulfur diesel (EN 590) to prevent high-pressure pump and injector wear. Post-2008 models benefit from upgraded tensioner materials; pre-2008 units should be inspected per PSA SIB-ENG-04-030. EGR and DPF systems require periodic regeneration and cleaning to maintain performance and prevent limp mode.
Oil Specs: Requires ACEA B4 specification (PSA B71 2293). Compatible with MB 229.31 and VW 505 00 where specified.
Emissions: All F1CE3481E (F30DTE) engines meet Euro 4 standards (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7120), confirmed across UK and EU markets.
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. Output consistent across fuel qualities meeting EN 590 minimum (PSA TIS T10270).
PSA Technical Information System (TIS): Docs T10270, SIB-ENG-04-030, SIB-FUEL-05-12
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/7120)
ISO International Standards: ISO 1585 Road vehicles — Engine test code — Net power
The Citroën F1CE3481E (F30DTE) was used across Citroën's large MPV and van platforms with longitudinal mounting and shared within the Stellantis Group for applications in Peugeot and Fiat variants. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced mounts in the Relay and revised intake routing in the C8-and from 2008 the Euro 4-compliant F30DTE2 update introduced revised ECU mapping, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front face of the cylinder block, near the exhaust manifold (PSA TIS T10270). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('H' for F1C series). Pre-2008 models have a silver cam cover with black plastic intake; post-2008 units use a dark grey cam cover. Critical differentiation from F30DTE2: F1CE3481E (F30DTE) uses earlier ECU mapping and lacks post-2008 emissions hardware revisions. Service parts require production date verification—timing belts for pre-2008 engines are incompatible with post-2008 revisions due to tensioner redesign (PSA SIB-ENG-04-030).
The F1CE3481E (F30DTE)'s primary reliability risk is timing belt tensioner degradation, with elevated incidence in high-temperature or stop-start environments. Internal PSA quality reports from 2007 noted a significant number of pre-2008 units requiring premature belt replacement, while UK DVSA records show timing-related failures contributing to MOT failures in high-mileage examples. Extended service intervals and thermal stress increase risk, making adherence to 10-year/180,000 km replacement critical.
Analysis derived from PSA technical bulletins (2005-2011) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2008-2015). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about CITROEN F1CE3481E-F30DTE.
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