The Citroën XFZ, known internally as the ES9J4, is a 3,198 cc, V6 petrol engine produced between 2001 and 2008. It belongs to the PSA ES9 engine family and features a DOHC 24-valve configuration with sequential multi-point fuel injection. Equipped with variable valve timing (VVT) on the intake camshafts, it delivers 155 kW (211 PS) and 300 Nm of torque, providing smooth, refined performance ideal for executive and grand touring applications.
Fitted to models such as the C5 and C6, the XFZ engine was engineered for high-speed stability and cabin refinement. It meets Euro 3 (pre-2005) and Euro 4 (post-2005) emissions standards through a regulated three-way catalytic converter and closed-loop lambda control. Paired primarily with a 5-speed automatic transmission (AL4), it supports relaxed cruising with minimal NVH and strong mid-range response.
One documented concern is premature wear of the timing belt tensioner, particularly in high-temperature environments or with extended service intervals. This issue, referenced in PSA Service Bulletin SIB-ENG-04-022, can lead to belt slippage or failure if not addressed. From 2004 onward, revised tensioner materials and improved coolant routing were implemented across the ES9 series to enhance long-term reliability.
Production years 2001–2004 meet Euro 3 standards; 2005–2008 models comply with Euro 4 depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5890).
The Citroën XFZ (ES9J4) is a 3,198 cc V6 petrol engine engineered for executive and luxury vehicles (2001–2008). It combines DOHC 24-valve architecture with sequential multi-point injection and variable valve timing to deliver smooth, high-torque performance. Designed to meet Euro 3 and later Euro 4 standards, it balances refinement with regulated emissions control.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 3,198 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded, 95 RON) | |
| Configuration | V6, DOHC, 24-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 87.0 mm × 88.8 mm | |
| Power output | 155 kW (211 PS) @ 6,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 300 Nm @ 3,750 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Sequential multi-point fuel injection (Siemens SIM2K) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 3 (pre-2005); Euro 4 (2005–2008) | |
| Compression ratio | 11.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled, thermostatically controlled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Timing belt (replacement interval: 150,000 km or 10 years) | |
| Oil type | SAE 5W-40, ACEA A3/B4 | |
| Dry weight | 178 kg |
The naturally aspirated V6 design provides linear throttle response and strong mid-range torque ideal for relaxed driving, but requires strict adherence to 150,000 km or 10-year timing belt service intervals to prevent catastrophic interference failure. SAE 5W-40 ACEA A3/B4 oil is recommended for optimal valve train and bearing protection. High-temperature operation, especially in stop-start traffic, can accelerate tensioner wear; coolant system integrity must be maintained. The Siemens SIM2K ECU supports robust diagnostics, but lambda sensor degradation may cause long-term fuel trim issues. Post-2004 models benefit from upgraded tensioner materials; pre-2004 units should be inspected per PSA SIB-ENG-04-022.
Oil Specs: Requires ACEA A3/B4 specification (PSA B71 2292). Compatible with VW 502 00 and MB 229.3 where specified.
Emissions: Euro 3 certification applies to pre-2005 models only (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5890). Euro 4 compliance confirmed for 2005–2008 production.
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. Output consistent across fuel qualities meeting 95 RON minimum (PSA TIS T10260).
PSA Technical Information System (TIS): Docs T10260, SIB-ENG-04-022, SIB-EFI-04-16
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5890)
ISO International Standards: ISO 1585 Road vehicles — Engine test code — Net power
The Citroën XFZ (ES9J4) was used across Citroën's C5/C6 platforms with transverse mounting and shared within the PSA Group for longitudinal applications in Peugeot variants. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake manifolds in the C5 and revised engine mounts in the C6-and from 2005 the Euro 4-compliant ES9J4S update introduced revised ECU mapping, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front face of the cylinder block, near the exhaust manifold (PSA TIS T10260). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('Z' for ES9 series). Pre-2005 models have a silver cam cover with black plastic intake; post-2005 units use a dark grey cam cover. Critical differentiation from ES9J4S: XFZ (ES9J4) uses earlier ECU mapping and lacks post-2005 emissions hardware revisions. Service parts require production date verification—timing belts for pre-2004 engines are incompatible with post-2004 revisions due to tensioner redesign (PSA SIB-ENG-04-022).
The XFZ (ES9J4)'s primary reliability risk is timing belt tensioner degradation, with elevated incidence in high-temperature or stop-start environments. Internal PSA quality reports from 2005 noted a significant number of pre-2004 units requiring premature belt replacement, while UK DVSA records show timing-related failures contributing to MOT failures in high-mileage examples. Extended service intervals and thermal stress increase risk, making adherence to 10-year/150,000 km replacement critical.
Analysis derived from PSA technical bulletins (2001-2008) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2005-2012). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about CITROEN XFZ-ES9J4.
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