The Citroën KFT, internally designated TU3A, is a 1,360 cc, inline-four petrol engine produced between 1993 and 2001. It is part of PSA Peugeot Citroën's widely used TU engine family, featuring a SOHC 8-valve configuration and single-point fuel injection (SPI) or carburetion depending on market. Delivering 55 kW (75 PS), it was engineered for economical urban mobility with low ownership costs and mechanical simplicity.
Fitted primarily to the AX, Saxo, and early Xsara models, the KFT (TU3A) powered base-trim variants aimed at cost-conscious buyers and first-time drivers. Its compact design and transverse mounting enabled efficient packaging in small hatchbacks, while its lightweight construction contributed to nimble handling and low fuel consumption. Emissions compliance was achieved via a catalytic converter, meeting Euro 1 and later Euro 2 standards.
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 Information Bulletin 1543. Unlike later TU variants, the TU3A does not feature hydraulic tappets, requiring periodic valve clearance checks. These design choices reflect a focus on durability and serviceability over high-tech refinement.
Production years 1993–1996 meet Euro 1 standards; 1997–2001 models comply with Euro 2 (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/3210).
The Citroën KFT (TU3A) is a 1,360 cc inline-four petrol engine designed for compact city cars (1993–2001). It features single-point fuel injection or carburettor induction and a simple SOHC valvetrain to deliver reliable, low-cost performance. Engineered to meet Euro 1/2 standards, it prioritizes mechanical robustness and ease of maintenance over high output.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,360 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, SOHC, 8-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 75.0 mm × 77.0 mm | |
| Power output | 55 kW (75 PS) @ 5,600 rpm | |
| Torque | 105 Nm @ 2,750 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Single-point fuel injection (SPI) or carburettor | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 1 (pre-1997); Euro 2 (1997–2001) | |
| Compression ratio | 9.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Timing belt (SOHC, front-mounted) | |
| Oil type | Total Multis 10W-40 (ACEA A2) | |
| Dry weight | 92 kg |
The KFT provides adequate power for city driving 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 solid tappet system. Valve clearances should be checked and adjusted every 45,000 km per PSA guidelines to maintain smooth operation and prevent noise. The use of SPI or carburetion ensures fuel system reliability, though injector or carb cleaning may be needed after 100,000 km. Emissions compliance depends on catalytic converter health; a failed cat will trigger fault codes and increase fuel consumption. This engine is not designed for sustained high-speed operation or towing, and aggressive driving accelerates wear.
Oil Specs: Requires ACEA A2 specification. Total Multis 10W-40 is OEM-specified (PSA SIB 1543). Hydraulic tappet oils are not required.
Emissions: Euro 1 applies to 1993–1996 models; Euro 2 certification applies to 1997–2001 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/3210).
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. Output consistent across all markets (PSA Group PT-2017).
PSA Technical Information System (TIS): Docs TU3-TS1, TU3-FI1, SIB 1543
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/3210)
ISO 1585: Road vehicles — Test method for the measurement of fuel consumption
The Citroën KFT (TU3A) was used across Citroën's AX/Saxo platforms with transverse mounting and shared with Peugeot under internal PSA engineering agreements. This engine received model-specific calibrations-adapted throttle response in the AX and revised intake manifolds in the Xsara-and from 1997 the updated SPI system created service part distinctions. 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 TU3-TS1). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('L' for 1.4i). Pre-1997 models may use a carburettor; post-1997 units adopted SPI. Critical differentiation from TU5: KFT (TU3A) has an 8-valve SOHC head and front-mounted timing belt, while TU5 units are 16-valve DOHC engines. Service parts require VIN-based verification—timing belts for pre-1997 models are compatible with all KFT units, but fuel system components may require calibration matching.
The KFT (TU3A)'s primary reliability risk is timing belt failure due to missed service intervals, with elevated incidence in high-mileage urban applications. PSA internal reports from 2002 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-2002 small-capacity engines. Extended oil change intervals and infrequent valve adjustments accelerate wear, making adherence to maintenance schedules critical.
Analysis derived from PSA technical bulletins (1993-2001) and UK DVSA failure statistics (1995-2005). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
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