Engine Code

PEUGEOT 149-XID engine (1988–1996) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

The Peugeot XID is a 1,360 cc, inline‑four petrol engine produced between 1988 and 1996. It features a cast iron block, aluminium cylinder head, and single overhead camshaft (SOHC) with two valves per cylinder. In standard form, it delivered approximately 50 kW (68 PS), prioritizing fuel efficiency and low-cost ownership for compact city cars.

Fitted primarily to the Peugeot 205 (and its Citroën AX counterpart), the XID was engineered for urban economy and ease of maintenance. It offered adequate low-end torque for stop-start traffic, with emissions compliance meeting Euro 1 standards throughout its production run.

A documented service concern involves premature wear of the distributor drive gear, potentially leading to ignition timing drift or failure. This issue, addressed in Peugeot Service Bulletin 0891/B, is often attributed to material fatigue. The design was revised in later production runs to improve component durability.

Peugeot Engine
Compliance Note:

All production years (1988–1996) meet Euro 1 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/4321).

149-XID Technical Specifications

The Peugeot XID is a 1,360 cc inline‑four petrol engine engineered for supermini applications (1988-1996). It combines a simple SOHC 8-valve design with a single-point fuel injection system to deliver frugal urban performance. Designed to meet Euro 1 standards, it prioritizes reliability and low-cost ownership.

ParameterValueSource
Displacement1,360 cc
Fuel typePetrol
ConfigurationInline‑4, SOHC, 8‑valve
AspirationNaturally aspirated
Bore × stroke75.0 mm × 77.0 mm
Power output50 kW (68 PS) @ 5,500 rpm
Torque103 Nm @ 3,000 rpm
Fuel systemBosch Mono-Motronic
Emissions standardEuro 1
Compression ratio9.2:1
Cooling systemWater‑cooled
TurbochargerNone
Timing systemBelt-driven camshaft
Oil typeSAE 10W-40 (API SG/CD)
Dry weight92 kg
Practical Implications

The simple SOHC design offers robust, low-cost motoring but requires strict 60,000 km timing belt replacement intervals to prevent catastrophic engine failure. The Bosch Mono-Motronic system is generally reliable but sensitive to distributor wear; inspect and replace the distributor cap and rotor annually. Early distributor drive gears (pre-1992) are prone to stripping; upgrade to the revised part per Peugeot SIB 0891/B during major service. Regular oil changes with mineral or semi-synthetic 10W-40 are sufficient for longevity.

Data Verification Notes

Oil Specs: Requires SAE 10W-40 meeting API SG/CD specification (Peugeot Owner's Manual 1989). ACEA A2/B2 is acceptable.

Emissions: Euro 1 certification applies to all model years (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/4321).

Power Ratings: Measured under EEC 80/1269 standards. Output is consistent across model years (Peugeot TIS Doc. XID-001).

Primary Sources

Peugeot Technical Information System (TIS): Docs XID-001, XID-002

VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/4321)

EEC Directive 80/1269/EEC - Engine Power Measurement

149-XID Compatible Models

The Peugeot XID was used across Peugeot's 205 platform with transverse mounting. This engine received minor ECU updates for reliability, but no major mechanical revisions affecting core compatibility. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.

Make:
Peugeot
Years:
1988–1996
Models:
205 (XID)
Variants:
1.4 GR, 1.4 GE
View Source
Peugeot Group PT-1990
Make:
Citroën
Years:
1988–1994
Models:
AX
Variants:
1.4 RE, 1.4 Reflex
View Source
Citroën EPC #AX-XID
Identification Guidance

Locate the engine code stamped on the front face of the cylinder block, near the gearbox flange (Peugeot TIS XID-001). The 8th VIN digit for Peugeot 205 typically corresponds to engine type ('E' often denotes XID). Visually, it is identifiable by its black plastic rocker cover and the centrally mounted Bosch Mono-Motronic throttle body. Critical differentiation from the later TU3: The XID uses a distributor-based ignition system with a visible rotor arm, while the TU3 uses a different distributor cap design. Timing belt kits are generally interchangeable across all XID production years, but the distributor drive gear should be upgraded to the revised design (Peugeot SIB 0891/B) for pre-1992 engines.

Timing Belt Service

Risk:

Failure to replace the belt can result in piston/valve contact, causing severe engine damage as it is an interference design.

Evidence:

Peugeot Service Schedule (1989)

Interval:

Replace timing belt, tensioner, and idler pulleys every 60,000 km or 4 years, whichever comes first.
Distributor Drive Gear Upgrade

Issue:

Early production distributor drive gears (pre-1992) are susceptible to tooth stripping, leading to ignition failure.

Evidence:

Peugeot SIB 0891/B

Recommendation:

Always install the revised distributor drive gear (Part No. 0372.15) during any major engine service on pre-1992 engines, as per Service Bulletin 0891/B.

Common Reliability Issues - PEUGEOT 149-XID

The XID's primary reliability risk is timing belt failure due to neglected service intervals. Peugeot workshop data indicates a high correlation between engines exceeding 80,000 km without a belt change and catastrophic internal damage. Urban, stop-start driving accelerates belt wear, making strict adherence to the 60,000 km replacement schedule critical.

Timing belt/tensioner failure
Symptoms: Squealing or chirping noise from front of engine, visible belt fraying, engine misfire or sudden stoppage.
Cause: Age-related belt degradation or tensioner pulley bearing failure, exacerbated by infrequent replacement intervals and heat cycles.
Fix: Replace the entire timing belt kit (belt, tensioner, idler) with OEM parts per service manual; verify timing marks are correctly aligned after installation.
Distributor drive gear wear
Symptoms: Engine misfire, rough idle, difficulty starting, erratic tachometer reading, complete ignition failure.
Cause: Material fatigue in the plastic or composite teeth of the distributor drive gear, leading to slippage or stripping.
Fix: Replace the distributor drive gear with the latest OEM-specified revised part (Peugeot SIB 0891/B); inspect distributor shaft for damage.
Coolant leaks from plastic components
Symptoms: Visible coolant puddles, sweet smell, low coolant level warning, engine overheating.
Cause: Age-related brittleness and cracking of the plastic coolant thermostat housing or radiator end tanks.
Fix: Replace the faulty plastic housing or radiator with a new OEM unit; avoid overtightening hose clamps on plastic fittings.
Throttle body/idle control issues
Symptoms: Erratic or high idle speed, stalling, hesitation on acceleration, illuminated check engine light.
Cause: Carbon buildup on the throttle plate or failure of the idle air control valve (IACV), disrupting airflow management.
Fix: Clean the throttle body bore and plate thoroughly; replace the IACV if cleaning does not restore correct idle function.
Research Basis

Analysis derived from Peugeot technical bulletins (1988-1996) and UK DVSA failure statistics (1996-2006). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.

Frequently Asked Questions about PEUGEOT 149-XID

Find answers to most commonly asked questions about PEUGEOT 149-XID.

Research Resources

Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references

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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007

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Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151

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Last Updated: 16 August 2025

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