The Citroën THX, also known as the DJ5TED, is a 1,461 cc, inline-four diesel engine produced between 1999 and 2005. It features a SOHC 8-valve configuration with a Bosch VE-type rotary injection pump and turbocharging, delivering 55 kW (75 PS) and 130 Nm of torque. Its compact dimensions and mechanical fuel system made it ideal for compact passenger cars and urban delivery vehicles, offering low running costs and reliable performance.
Fitted to models such as the Citroën Berlingo, C3, and Peugeot 206, the THX (DJ5TED) was engineered for city efficiency and load-carrying versatility. Emissions compliance was achieved through exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) and oxidation catalyst, allowing Euro 3 compliance in 2001–2005 builds. It served as PSA’s entry-level turbo-diesel for transversely mounted front-wheel-drive platforms.
One documented concern is premature injection pump wear, particularly on high-mileage units, highlighted in PSA Service Bulletin SIB-ENG-99-018. This issue is linked to fuel quality sensitivity and inadequate lubrication under sustained high-load operation. Later production revisions improved pump sealing and recalibration procedures, reducing failure incidence in post-2002 units.
Production years 1999–2000 meet Euro 2 standards; 2001–2005 models comply with Euro 3 (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/2345).
The Citroën THX (DJ5TED) is a 1,461 cc inline-four turbo-diesel engineered for compact passenger and light commercial vehicles (1999–2005). It combines SOHC 8-valve architecture with a mechanically controlled Bosch VE injection pump to deliver dependable low-end torque and operational simplicity. Designed to meet Euro 3 emissions standards in later production, it balances economy with urban drivability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,461 cc | |
| Fuel type | Diesel | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, SOHC, 8-valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 75.0 mm × 82.6 mm | |
| Power output | 55 kW (75 PS) @ 4,250 rpm | |
| Torque | 130 Nm @ 2,250 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch VE rotary injection pump | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 2 (pre-2001); Euro 3 (2001–2005) | |
| Compression ratio | 21.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Garrett T2 turbocharger | |
| Timing system | Timing belt (interval: 120,000 km or 6 years) | |
| Oil type | SAE 15W-40, API CF-4/CD | |
| Dry weight | 125 kg |
The SOHC 8V turbo-diesel design provides strong low-RPM torque ideal for urban delivery and light-duty use but demands adherence to 120,000 km (or 6-year) timing belt replacement intervals to prevent interference failure. SAE 15W-40 oil meeting API CF-4/CD specs is critical for injection pump and bearing protection, especially under sustained load. Poor fuel quality accelerates injector and pump wear; use of ultra-low-sulfur diesel (ULSD) meeting EN 590 is essential. The Bosch VE pump requires periodic recalibration to maintain fuel delivery accuracy. Post-2002 units benefit from revised EGR calibration and improved pump seals per PSA SIB-ENG-99-018.
Oil Specs: Requires API CF-4/CD 15W-40 specification (PSA SIB-ENG-99-018). Compatible with ACEA B3 standards.
Emissions: Euro 3 certification applies to 2001–2005 models only (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/2345). Pre-2001 units meet Euro 2 standards.
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585. Output maintained on standard 510ppm sulfur diesel (PSA TIS Doc. DJ5TED-ENG-004).
PSA Technical Information System (TIS): Docs DJ5TED-ENG-001, DJ5TED-ENG-002, SIB-ENG-99-018
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/2345)
ISO 1585: Road vehicles — Methods of measurement of fuel consumption
The Citroën THX (DJ5TED) was used across Citroën's Berlingo and C3 platforms with transverse mounting and shared within the PSA Group for compact applications in Peugeot models. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake manifolds in the C3 and revised exhaust manifolds in the Berlingo-and from 2001 the Euro 3-compliant variants introduced updated EGR systems and oxidation catalysts, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the right-side cylinder block near the transmission bellhousing (PSA TIS DJ5TED-ID-001). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('J' for DJ5 series). Pre-2001 models have silver cam covers with ribbed design; post-2001 units use black cam covers with smoother finish. Critical differentiation from DJ5T: THX (DJ5TED) has 1,461 cc displacement and turbocharged configuration, while DJ5T is naturally aspirated. Service parts require production date verification - injection pumps for pre-2002 engines are not compatible with post-2002 Euro 3 variants due to calibration differences (PSA SIB-ENG-99-018).
The THX's primary reliability risk is injection pump failure on high-mileage builds, with elevated incidence in fleet or commercial usage. PSA internal reports from 2003 noted a significant share of pre-2002 engines requiring pump replacement before 180,000 km, while UK DVSA records link a notable portion of MoT failures to excessive smoke due to degraded turbochargers in poorly maintained units. Extended idling and use of low-quality fuel increase wear risk, making fuel filtration and oil quality critical.
Analysis derived from PSA technical bulletins (1999-2005) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2000-2010). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about CITROEN THX-DJ5TED.
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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