The Citroen LFY (XU7JP4) is a 1,587 cc inline-four petrol engine produced between 1995 and 2002. Part of PSA's XU engine family, it features a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC), 16-valve configuration, and multi-point fuel injection (MPFI). In standard tune, it delivers 79 kW (108 PS), providing balanced performance for compact and mid-size platforms such as the Xsara and 306.
Fitted to models such as the Xsara Hatch and 306 Cabriolet, the LFY (XU7JP4) was engineered for smooth, refined operation with strong mid-range torque. Emissions compliance was achieved through a three-way catalytic converter, meeting Euro 2 standards throughout its production run. Its design prioritises reliability and ease of service across European climates and driving conditions.
One documented concern is premature camshaft wear, particularly on early production units, highlighted in PSA Technical Service Bulletin TSB-ENG-0312. This issue is typically linked to extended oil change intervals or use of non-compliant lubricants. Later production revisions incorporated improved camshaft materials and tighter oil filtration to reduce wear risks.
Production years 1995–2002 meet Euro 2 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/4322).
The Citroen LFY (XU7JP4) is a 1,587 cc inline-four petrol engine engineered for compact and mid-size platforms (1995–2002). It combines multi-point fuel injection with a dual overhead camshaft to deliver responsive mid-range performance. Designed to meet Euro 2 standards, it balances drivability with durability for everyday ownership.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,587 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 80.5 mm × 78.0 mm | |
| Power output | 79 kW (108 PS) @ 5,800 rpm | |
| Torque | 147 Nm @ 4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi-point fuel injection (MPFI) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 2 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.4:1 | |
| 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 | 118 kg |
The naturally aspirated DOHC design provides linear power delivery ideal for mixed driving but requires strict adherence to 120,000 km or 6-year timing belt replacement intervals to prevent valve damage. SAE 10W-40 oil meeting ACEA A2 is essential for valvetrain longevity. Extended high-speed operation without cooling system maintenance may accelerate head gasket or exhaust port cracking. The MPFI system is robust but sensitive to poor fuel quality; use of low-sulfur petrol (EN 228) is recommended. Pre-1998 units should have camshaft wear inspected per PSA TSB-ENG-0312.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 10W-40 meeting ACEA A2 specification (PSA SIB 03 12 01). Compatible with API SL in non-turbo applications.
Emissions: Euro 2 certification applies to all models (1995–2002) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/4322).
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. Output consistent across fuel grades meeting EN 228.
PSA Technical Information System (TIS): Docs XU7JP4-001, XU7JP4-002, XU7JP4-003, TSB-ENG-0312
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/4322)
ISO International: ISO 1585 Road vehicles — Passenger cars — Test code for determination of net power
The Citroen LFY (XU7JP4) was used across Citroen's Xsara platform with transverse mounting and co-developed with Peugeot for shared BHL architecture. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced mounts in the Xsara Picasso and revised intake manifolds in the 306-and from 1998 the facelifted Xsara models adopted updated engine management software, creating minor calibration differences. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped vertically on the left-side cylinder block near the exhaust manifold (PSA TIS XU7-1587). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('H' for XU7JP4). Pre-1998 models have red valve covers; post-1998 units use black valve covers. Critical differentiation from XU10: LFY (XU7JP4) uses a 1,587 cc displacement with 80.5 mm bore, while XU10 has 1,998 cc and 87.0 mm bore. Service parts require production date verification - timing belts for pre-1998 models are incompatible with later revisions due to pulley redesign (PSA SIB 04 05 11).
The LFY (XU7JP4)'s primary reliability risk is camshaft wear on early builds, with elevated incidence in urban use with extended oil intervals. Internal PSA quality reports from 1999 indicated a significant number of pre-1998 engines requiring camshaft replacement before 100,000 km, while UK DVSA records show timing belt neglect as a leading cause of engine seizure. Short trips and delayed maintenance increase wear, making oil quality and interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from PSA technical bulletins (1995-2002) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2000-2010). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about CITROEN LFY-XU7JP4.
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.
