The Citroen RFT (XU10J4) is a 1,998 cc, inline-four petrol engine produced between 1994 and 2001 as part of PSA Peugeot Citroën's XU engine family. It features a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC), 16-valve configuration, and multi-point fuel injection (MPFI), delivering 99 kW (135 PS) at 5,600 rpm with 187 Nm of torque at 3,250 rpm. This engine was engineered for refined performance in mid-size hatchbacks and estates.
Fitted to models such as the Citroen Xantia, BX, and Peugeot 406, the XU10J4 was designed for balanced drivability and smooth power delivery. Emissions compliance was achieved through a three-way catalytic converter and closed-loop lambda control, enabling Euro 2 certification for early builds and Euro 3 compliance for post-1996 variants. Its longitudinal mounting and front-wheel-drive layout made it ideal for PSA’s C-segment platforms.
One documented concern is cylinder head gasket failure, particularly in vehicles subjected to prolonged high-temperature operation or delayed coolant changes. This issue, referenced in PSA Service Information Bulletin SIB-ENG-002-06, is linked to thermal stress on the aluminium head and cast-iron block interface. From 1997, revised head bolts and updated gasket materials were introduced to improve sealing integrity and reduce failure incidence.
Production years 1994–1996 meet Euro 2 standards; 1997–2001 models comply with Euro 3 (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/2105).
The Citroen RFT (XU10J4) is a 1,998 cc inline-four petrol engine developed for mid-size family cars (1994–2001). It uses multi-point fuel injection and a DOHC 16-valve layout to deliver responsive performance and smooth operation. Engineered to meet Euro 2 and later Euro 3 emissions standards, it prioritizes durability and refinement in mainstream applications.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,998 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 86.0 mm × 85.8 mm | |
| Power output | 99 kW (135 PS) @ 5,600 rpm | |
| Torque | 187 Nm @ 3,250 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi-point fuel injection (MPFI) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 2 (pre-1997); Euro 3 (1997–2001) | |
| Compression ratio | 10.3:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Timing belt (DOHC) | |
| Oil type | PSA B71 2012 (SAE 10W-40) | |
| Dry weight | 138 kg |
The naturally aspirated design provides linear power delivery ideal for highway cruising but requires strict adherence to 60,000 km or 4-year timing belt replacement intervals to prevent valve damage. PSA B71 2012 (10W-40) oil is recommended for optimal camshaft and lifter lubrication. Coolant should be replaced every 3 years to prevent head warping and thermostat failure. The MPFI system is robust but sensitive to poor fuel quality; use of EN 228-compliant petrol is advised. Post-1997 models benefit from improved head bolt torque sequencing and updated gasket materials, enhancing sealing reliability.
Oil Specs: Requires PSA B71 2012 (10W-40) specification (PSA SIB-ENG-002-06). Compatible with ACEA A2/B2.
Emissions: Euro 3 certification applies to 1997–2001 models only (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/2105). Pre-1997 units meet Euro 2.
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. Output assumes clean air filter, correct ignition timing, and 95 RON fuel (PSA TIS Doc. B22300).
PSA Technical Information System (TIS): Docs B22000, B22250, SIB-ENG-002-06
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/2105)
ISO 1585 Road vehicles — Test method for the measurement of fuel consumption
The Citroen RFT (XU10J4) was used across Citroen's BX/Xantia platforms with longitudinal mounting and shared with Peugeot under PSA Group commonality agreements. This engine received platform-specific calibrations—slightly tuned throttle response in the Xantia and revised exhaust tuning in the BX—and from 1997 the updated Xantia adopted a redesigned intake manifold and updated ECU mapping, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped vertically on the right-side engine block near the exhaust manifold (PSA TIS B22000). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('G' for XU10 series). Pre-1997 models use a silver camshaft cover with ribbed intake manifold; post-1997 units feature a black cover with smooth intake casting. Critical differentiation from XU10J2: XU10J4 has revised ECU mapping and intake design. Service parts require model-year verification—timing belts and cylinder head gaskets for pre-1997 models are not compatible with later revisions due to bolt pattern and sealing changes (PSA SIB-ENG-002-06).
The XU10J4's primary reliability risk is cylinder head gasket failure, with elevated incidence in vehicles subjected to prolonged high-temperature operation. Internal PSA field reports from 2000 indicated a significant number of pre-1997 units required head gasket replacement before 120,000 km, while UK DVSA data links a portion of emissions-related failures to lambda sensor degradation. Infrequent coolant changes and delayed timing belt service increase thermal and mechanical stress, making fluid maintenance critical.
Analysis derived from PSA technical bulletins (1995–2001) and UK DVSA failure statistics (1995–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about CITROEN RFT-XU10J4.
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.
