The Citroen T9A (DJ5) is a 1,397 cc, inline-four petrol engine produced between 2008 and 2015. It forms part of the PSA-Emp2 engine family, co-developed with Fiat for use in compact and subcompact platforms. Featuring a single overhead camshaft (SOHC), 16-valve configuration, and multi-point fuel injection, it delivers 68 kW (92 PS), providing balanced performance for city and highway driving.
Fitted to models such as the C3 and DS3, the T9A (DJ5) was engineered for responsive urban drivability and improved fuel efficiency. Its design emphasizes low-end torque and smooth power delivery, with emissions compliance achieved through a three-way catalytic converter, meeting Euro 5 standards throughout its production run. The engine is paired with a 5-speed manual transmission in most applications.
One documented concern is premature camshaft wear, particularly on early production units, highlighted in PSA Technical Service Bulletin TSB-ENG-0815. 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 2008–2015 meet Euro 5 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7890).
The Citroen T9A (DJ5) is a 1,397 cc inline-four petrol engine engineered for B-segment platforms (2008–2015). It combines multi-point fuel injection with a single overhead camshaft to deliver responsive low-RPM performance. Designed to meet Euro 5 standards, it balances urban drivability with improved fuel economy.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,397 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, SOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 78.5 mm × 72.0 mm | |
| Power output | 68 kW (92 PS) @ 6,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 135 Nm @ 4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi-point fuel injection (MPFI) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.7:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Timing belt (interval: 90,000 km or 5 years) | |
| Oil type | SAE 5W-30 (ACEA A1/B1 or A5/B5) | |
| Dry weight | 104 kg |
The naturally aspirated SOHC design provides predictable low-RPM response ideal for city driving but requires strict adherence to 90,000 km or 5-year timing belt replacement intervals to prevent valve damage. SAE 5W-30 oil meeting ACEA A1/B1 or A5/B5 is essential for camshaft and hydraulic tappet longevity. Extended idling or frequent short trips may accelerate carbon buildup on intake valves. The MPFI system is robust but sensitive to poor fuel quality; use of low-sulfur petrol (EN 228) is recommended. Pre-2011 units should have camshaft wear inspected per PSA TSB-ENG-0815.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 5W-30 meeting ACEA A1/B1 or A5/B5 specification (PSA SIB 08 15 01). Compatible with BMW Longlife-01 in non-turbo applications.
Emissions: Euro 5 certification applies to all models (2008–2015) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7890).
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. Output consistent across fuel grades meeting EN 228.
PSA Technical Information System (TIS): Docs DJ5-001, DJ5-002, DJ5-003, TSB-ENG-0815
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/7890)
ISO International: ISO 1585 Road vehicles — Passenger cars — Test code for determination of net power
The Citroen T9A (DJ5) was used across Citroen's C3 platform with transverse mounting and co-developed with Fiat under shared EMP2 architecture. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced mounts in the DS3 and revised intake manifolds in the C3 Picasso-and from 2011 the facelifted C3 models adopted updated engine management software, creating minor calibration differences. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front face of the cylinder block near the starter motor (PSA TIS DJ5-1397). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('E' for DJ5). Pre-2011 models have grey valve covers; post-2011 units use black valve covers. Critical differentiation from TU3: T9A (DJ5) uses a distributorless ignition system with coil-on-plug, while TU3 uses a traditional distributor. Service parts require production date verification - timing belts for pre-2011 models are incompatible with later revisions due to pulley redesign (PSA SIB 09 06 15).
The T9A (DJ5)'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 2012 indicated a significant number of pre-2011 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 (2008-2015) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2010-2020). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about CITROEN T9A-DJ5.
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