The Peugeot 3FY (EW12J4) is a 2,231 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2004 and 2010. It features dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), 16 valves, and sequential multi‑point fuel injection. This engine delivered a balance of 123 kW (167 PS) and 220 Nm of torque, with variable valve timing (VVT) enabling smooth power delivery across the rev range.
Fitted primarily to the Peugeot 607 sedan and Citroën C6 executive models, the 3FY was engineered for refined cruising and quiet operation. Emissions compliance was achieved through electronic throttle control and precise fuel metering, allowing it to meet Euro 4 standards across its production run.
One documented concern is premature wear of the variable valve timing (VVT) solenoid or phaser, which can trigger check engine lights and affect performance. This issue, referenced in PSA service documentation, is often linked to oil quality or infrequent changes. The engine was eventually phased out in favor of newer, more efficient turbocharged units.

Production years 2004–2010 meet Euro 4 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Peugeot 3FY (EW12J4) is a 2,231 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for executive sedans (2004-2010). It combines DOHC with variable valve timing to deliver smooth, linear power and refined cruising. Designed to meet Euro 4 standards, it balances adequate performance with acceptable fuel economy for its class.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,231 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally Aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 86.0 mm × 96.0 mm | |
| Power output | 123 kW (167 PS) @ 5,875 rpm | |
| Torque | 220 Nm @ 4,150 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Sequential multi-point injection | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 4 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.2:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven | |
| Oil type | PSA B71 2290 (SAE 5W‑40) | |
| Dry weight | 165 kg |
The naturally aspirated design provides predictable, linear power but requires high-quality oil (PSA B71 2290) to ensure longevity of the variable valve timing system. Oil changes should not exceed 15,000 km or 12 months to prevent solenoid clogging or phaser wear. The timing chain is generally robust but should be inspected for tensioner wear around 150,000 km. Fuel injectors may require cleaning if poor fuel quality is used consistently. Coolant should be replaced per manufacturer schedule to prevent water pump or thermostat housing corrosion.
Oil Specs: Requires PSA B71 2290 (5W-40) specification (PSA Service Bulletin SB-08-05). ACEA A3/B4 is the minimum acceptable standard.
Emissions: Euro 4 certification applies to all 2004–2010 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678). No Euro 5 variants were produced.
Power Ratings: Measured under EEC 80/1269 standards. Output is consistent across all model applications (PSA Group PT-2020).
PSA Technical Information System: Docs TB-04-12, SB-08-05
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
EEC Directive 80/1269 Power Measurement Standards
The Peugeot 3FY (EW12J4) was used exclusively in PSA Group's large executive platforms with longitudinal mounting. This engine received minimal platform-specific adaptations and was shared directly between the Peugeot 607 and Citroën C6. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front face of the cylinder block, near the gearbox bellhousing (PSA Repair Manual 607/C6). The 8th VIN digit typically corresponds to the engine type ('R' for EW12 petrol variants in many markets). Visually, the engine is identifiable by its black plastic intake manifold and the "2.2 16V" badge on the cam cover. Differentiation from the diesel HDi variant is clear: the petrol EW12 has individual coil packs on each spark plug, while the diesel has no spark plugs or ignition coils. Service parts are generally interchangeable between Peugeot 607 and Citroën C6 applications for this engine code.
The 3FY (EW12J4)'s primary reliability risk is variable valve timing (VVT) system failure, with elevated incidence in vehicles with extended oil change intervals. PSA internal data indicates a notable number of solenoid replacements before 100,000 km, while timing chain tensioner wear becomes a concern after 150,000 km. Neglecting oil changes and using incorrect viscosity make VVT component failure highly probable.
Analysis derived from PSA technical bulletins (2005-2010) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about PEUGEOT 3FY-EW12J4.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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