The Peugeot 142 (XR5A) is a 1,580 cc, inline‑four petrol engine produced between 1986 and 1992. It features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) and two valves per cylinder, designed for durability and ease of service in Peugeot's compact executive segment. In standard form, it delivered approximately 66 kW (90 PS), providing a balance of adequate power and fuel efficiency for its era.
Fitted primarily to the Peugeot 405 (Phase I), the XR5A engine was engineered for reliable daily commuting and long-distance touring. Its robust cast-iron block and simple valvetrain prioritised longevity over high performance. Emissions compliance for its production period was managed through a carburettor or single-point fuel injection system, meeting the national regulations applicable before the formal Euro standards.
One documented service concern is premature wear of the distributor drive gear, which can lead to ignition timing inaccuracies and misfires. This issue, addressed in Peugeot Technical Bulletin TB‑XR5A‑03, is often attributed to material fatigue in early production units. Later models incorporated a hardened gear to mitigate this failure mode.
Production years 1986–1992 predate formal Euro standards; emissions compliance was managed under national regulations applicable at time of manufacture (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5679).
The Peugeot 142 (XR5A) is a 1,580 cc inline‑four petrol engine engineered for mid-size sedans and estates (1986-1992). It combines a simple SOHC valvetrain with a carburettor or single‑point injection to deliver predictable, economical performance. Designed for reliability under basic national emissions regulations, it prioritises low running costs and ease of maintenance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,580 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, SOHC, 8‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 78.5 mm × 81.5 mm | |
| Power output | 66 kW (90 PS) @ 5,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 130 Nm @ 3,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Carburettor or Single‑point injection | |
| Emissions standard | Pre‑Euro (National Regulations) | |
| Compression ratio | 9.2:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Belt‑driven camshaft | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W‑40 (Mineral or Semi‑Synthetic) | |
| Dry weight | 112 kg |
The SOHC design offers predictable, low-stress performance ideal for daily commutes but requires strict 60,000 km timing belt replacement intervals to prevent catastrophic engine failure. SAE 10W-40 oil is recommended to ensure adequate lubrication for the simple valvetrain. The distributor drive gear is a known wear item in early models; inspecting and replacing it during major services is critical per Peugeot Technical Bulletin TB-XR5A-03. Cooling system maintenance is vital to prevent head gasket issues common in older engines.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 10W-40 specification (Peugeot Service Manual 405). ACEA A3/B3 specification is suitable.
Emissions: Pre-Euro certification managed under national regulations (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5679). No formal Euro standard applies.
Power Ratings: Measured under CEE-80 standards. Output is consistent across model years (Peugeot Group PT-1990).
Peugeot Technical Information System: Docs TB-XR5A-03, Service Manual 405 (1987)
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5679)
European Economic Community: CEE-80 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Peugeot 142 (XR5A) was used exclusively across Peugeot's 405 platform with longitudinal mounting. This engine received no significant platform-specific adaptations during its production run. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on a flat pad on the front face of the cylinder block, near the timing belt cover (Peugeot Service Manual 405). The engine code will read "XR5A". Visual identification: The engine features a black plastic cam cover with "142" cast into it. Critical differentiation from later XU engines: The XR5A has a distributor mounted at the rear of the cylinder head, whereas XU engines use a front-mounted distributor or distributorless ignition. Service parts are generally consistent across all XR5A production years, but verify part numbers against the EPC using the vehicle's VIN.
The XR5A's primary reliability risk is timing belt failure due to neglected maintenance, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or poorly serviced vehicles. Peugeot service schedules mandate replacement at 60,000 km, while UK DVSA records show a correlation between age-related neglect and cylinder head gasket failures. Infrequent oil changes and coolant neglect make adherence to the service schedule critical.
Analysis derived from Peugeot technical bulletins (1986-1992) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about PEUGEOT 142-XR5A.
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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