The Peugeot 142 (XR5A) is a 1,360 cc, inline‑four petrol engine produced between 1983 and 1990. It features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) and two valves per cylinder, designed for durability and ease of maintenance in compact family cars. In standard form, it delivered approximately 55 kW (75 PS), providing adequate performance for its era.
Fitted primarily to the Peugeot 205 and 309, the XR5A engine was engineered for balanced economy and reliability. Its robust cast-iron block and simple valvetrain made it suitable for varied driving conditions. Emissions compliance for its era was managed through a carburettor or early electronic fuel injection, meeting national regulations prior to formal Euro standards.
One documented service concern is premature wear of the distributor drive gear, which can lead to ignition timing faults and misfires. This issue, addressed in Peugeot service documentation, is often linked to lubrication quality. Later production runs saw improved metallurgy for this component.
Production years 1983–1990 predate formal Euro standards; emissions compliance was managed under national regulations applicable at time of manufacture (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789).
The Peugeot 142 (XR5A) is a 1,360 cc inline‑four petrol engine engineered for compact family cars (1983-1990). It combines a simple SOHC valvetrain with a carburettor or single-point injection to deliver reliable, economical performance. Designed for reliability under basic national emissions regulations, it prioritises serviceability and cost-effective ownership.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,360 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, SOHC, 8‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 75.0 mm × 77.0 mm | |
| Power output | 55 kW (75 PS) @ 5,800 rpm | |
| Torque | 105 Nm @ 3,400 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 | 105 kg |
The SOHC design offers predictable 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. The distributor drive gear is a known wear item; inspecting it during major services is critical per Peugeot Technical Bulletin TB-XR5A-01. Using high-quality fuel is essential to prevent carburettor jet clogging. Cooling system maintenance is vital to prevent head gasket issues common in older engines.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 10W-40 specification (Peugeot Service Manual 205). ACEA A3/B3 specification is suitable.
Emissions: Pre-Euro certification managed under national regulations (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789). No formal Euro standard applies.
Power Ratings: Measured under CEE-80 standards. Output is consistent across model years (Peugeot Group PT-1988).
Peugeot Technical Information System: Docs TB-XR5A-01, Service Manual 205 (1984)
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/6789)
European Economic Community: CEE-80 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Peugeot 142 (XR5A) was used across Peugeot's 205 and 309 platforms with transverse 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 gearbox flange (Peugeot Service Manual 205). 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 TU engines: The XR5A has a timing belt cover that is a single piece on the front, whereas TU engines have a multi-piece cover. 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 (1983-1990) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about PEUGEOT 155-XD3.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
Independent Technical Reference
EngineCode.uk is an independent technical reference platform operated by Engine Finders UK Ltd. We are not affiliated with PEUGEOT or any other manufacturer. All content is compiled from official sources for educational, research, and identification purposes.
Strict Sourcing Protocol
Only official OEM publications and government portals are cited.
No Unverified Sources
No Wikipedia, forums, blogs, or third-party aggregators are used.
Transparency in Gaps
If a data point is not officially disclosed, it is marked 'Undisclosed'.
Regulatory Stability
EU regulations are referenced using CELEX identifiers for long-term stability.
PEUGEOT Official Site
Owner literature, service manuals, technical releases, and plant documentation.
EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.
DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
UK type-approval authority for automotive products.
Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
WLTP and RDE testing procedures for emissions certification.
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.
VCA Certification Portal
Type-approval guidance and documentation.
Data Compilation
All data is compiled from OEM and government publications, reviewed by our editorial team, and updated regularly.
Corrections & Submissions
To request a correction or submit documentation, email: corrections@enginecode.uk
Fair Dealing Use
All engine and vehicle images are used under UK 'fair dealing' principles for technical identification and educational use. Rights remain with their respective owners.
Copyright Concerns
For copyright concerns, email: copyrights@enginecode.uk
GDPR Compliance
EngineCode.uk complies with UK GDPR. We do not collect personal data unless explicitly provided.
Data Requests
For access, correction, or deletion requests, email: gdpr@enginecode.uk
Trademark Notice
All trademarks, logos, and engine codes are the property of their respective owners. Use on this site is strictly for reference and identification.
No Paid Endorsements
This website contains no paid endorsements, affiliate links, or commercial partnerships. We do not sell parts or services.
Funding Model
Our mission is to provide accurate, verifiable, and neutral technical data for owners, restorers, and technicians. This site is self-funded.
All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialPEUGEOT documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed“ .
All external links open in new tabs. Please verify current availability of resources.
