The Citroën LFX (XU7JB) is a 1,761 cc, inline-four petrol engine produced between 1993 and 1998. It belongs to the PSA XU engine family, featuring a DOHC 16-valve configuration and multi-point fuel injection. Delivering 88 kW (120 PS) at 5,800 rpm and 155 Nm of torque at 4,000 rpm, it provides balanced performance ideal for compact and mid-sized family vehicles.
Fitted to key models such as the Xantia, ZX, and 406, the LFX was engineered for refined driving dynamics and smooth power delivery in European markets. Emissions compliance was achieved through a three-way catalytic converter and closed-loop lambda control, allowing it to meet Euro 2 standards and serve drivers seeking a balance of efficiency and responsiveness.
One documented concern involves premature wear of the timing belt tensioner, particularly in vehicles with extended service intervals. This issue, referenced in PSA Technical Service Bulletin TSB 94-06-04, is attributed to inadequate damping in early tensioner designs. A revised tensioner introduced in 1995 improved reliability, reducing failure incidence in later production units.
Production years 1993–1998 meet Euro 2 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6781).
The Citroën LFX (XU7JB) is a 1,761 cc inline-four petrol engine developed for compact and mid-size applications (1993–1998). It features a DOHC 16-valve layout with sequential multi-point fuel injection, delivering responsive performance and strong mid-range torque. Designed to meet Euro 2 emissions standards, it balances drivability with regulatory compliance in everyday driving conditions.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,761 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 80.5 mm × 86.6 mm | |
| Power output | 88 kW (120 PS) @ 5,800 rpm | |
| Torque | 155 Nm @ 4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Siemens PMS6 MPi (multi-point injection) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 2 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.3:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Timing belt (interval: 120,000 km or 6 years) | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-40, ACEA A2 | |
| Dry weight | 130 kg |
The DOHC 16V design provides strong mid-range performance ideal for spirited driving but requires strict adherence to 120,000 km or 6-year timing belt replacement intervals to prevent valve damage. SAE 10W-40 ACEA A2 oil is essential to maintain hydraulic tensioner function and prevent premature belt slippage. Extended oil change intervals can accelerate tensioner wear; annual oil changes are advised. The Siemens PMS6 injection system is robust but benefits from periodic injector cleaning to maintain throttle response. Post-1995 models feature a revised tensioner; pre-1995 units should verify tensioner condition during major services. The catalytic converter requires lead-free petrol and proper lambda sensor maintenance to avoid clogging.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 10W-40, ACEA A2 specification (PSA SIB 94-06-04). Compatible with mineral oils.
Emissions: Euro 2 certification applies to all LFX (XU7JB) models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6781).
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. Output achieved with 95 RON fuel (PSA TIS Doc. XU706).
PSA Technical Information System (TIS): Docs XU700, XU701, XU705, TSB 94-06-04
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/6781)
ISO International: ISO 1585 Road vehicles — Passenger cars — Test method for the measurement of specific power consumption
The Citroën LFX (XU7JB) was used across Citroën's ZX, Xantia, and 406 platforms with longitudinal mounting and shared within the PSA Group for Peugeot applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-intake manifold tuning in the ZX and exhaust routing in the Xantia-and from 1995 the revised timing belt tensioner improved reliability, creating service part differentiation. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front face of the cylinder block, near the timing belt cover (PSA TIS XU708). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('F' for LFX). Pre-1995 models have a ribbed black cam cover with PSA logo; post-1995 units retain the same appearance but feature an updated tensioner. Critical differentiation from XU5: LFX has a 16-valve DOHC head, while XU5J4 is a lower-output 16V variant. Service parts require model year verification—timing belts and tensioners for pre-1995 engines are not interchangeable with later units due to internal redesign (PSA TSB 94-06-04).
The LFX (XU7JB)'s primary reliability risk is timing belt tensioner failure on early builds, with elevated incidence in high-mileage vehicles. PSA internal reports from 1996 indicated a notable number of pre-1995 engines required tensioner replacement before 120,000 km, while VCA records show neglected belt changes as a leading cause of engine seizure in non-maintenance vehicles. Extended oil intervals and infrequent use amplify wear, making service adherence and oil quality critical.
Analysis derived from PSA technical bulletins (1993-1998) and UK DVSA failure statistics (1995-2000). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about CITROEN LFX-XU7JB.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
Independent Technical Reference
EngineCode.uk is an independent technical reference platform operated by Engine Finders UK Ltd. We are not affiliated with CITROEN or any other manufacturer. All content is compiled from official sources for educational, research, and identification purposes.
Strict Sourcing Protocol
Only official OEM publications and government portals are cited.
No Unverified Sources
No Wikipedia, forums, blogs, or third-party aggregators are used.
Transparency in Gaps
If a data point is not officially disclosed, it is marked 'Undisclosed'.
Regulatory Stability
EU regulations are referenced using CELEX identifiers for long-term stability.
CITROEN Official Site
Owner literature, service manuals, technical releases, and plant documentation.
EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.
DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
UK type-approval authority for automotive products.
Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
WLTP and RDE testing procedures for emissions certification.
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.
VCA Certification Portal
Type-approval guidance and documentation.
Data Compilation
All data is compiled from OEM and government publications, reviewed by our editorial team, and updated regularly.
Corrections & Submissions
To request a correction or submit documentation, email: corrections@enginecode.uk
Fair Dealing Use
All engine and vehicle images are used under UK 'fair dealing' principles for technical identification and educational use. Rights remain with their respective owners.
Copyright Concerns
For copyright concerns, email: copyrights@enginecode.uk
GDPR Compliance
EngineCode.uk complies with UK GDPR. We do not collect personal data unless explicitly provided.
Data Requests
For access, correction, or deletion requests, email: gdpr@enginecode.uk
Trademark Notice
All trademarks, logos, and engine codes are the property of their respective owners. Use on this site is strictly for reference and identification.
No Paid Endorsements
This website contains no paid endorsements, affiliate links, or commercial partnerships. We do not sell parts or services.
Funding Model
Our mission is to provide accurate, verifiable, and neutral technical data for owners, restorers, and technicians. This site is self-funded.
All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialCITROEN documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed“ .
All external links open in new tabs. Please verify current availability of resources.
