Engine Code

PEUGEOT 3FY-EW12J4 engine (2004–2010) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

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.

Peugeot Engine
Compliance Note:

Production years 2004–2010 meet Euro 4 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).

3FY-EW12J4 Technical Specifications

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.

ParameterValueSource
Displacement2,231 cc
Fuel typePetrol
ConfigurationInline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve
AspirationNaturally Aspirated
Bore × stroke86.0 mm × 96.0 mm
Power output123 kW (167 PS) @ 5,875 rpm
Torque220 Nm @ 4,150 rpm
Fuel systemSequential multi-point injection
Emissions standardEuro 4
Compression ratio10.2:1
Cooling systemWater‑cooled
TurbochargerNone
Timing systemChain-driven
Oil typePSA B71 2290 (SAE 5W‑40)
Dry weight165 kg
Practical Implications

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.

Data Verification Notes

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).

Primary Sources

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

3FY-EW12J4 Compatible Models

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.

Make:
Peugeot
Years:
2004–2010
Models:
607
Variants:
2.2 HDi (petrol variant)
View Source
PSA Group PT-2020
Make:
Citroën
Years:
2005–2010
Models:
C6
Variants:
2.2i 16V
View Source
PSA ETK Doc. C6-2200
Identification Guidance

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.

Identification Details

Evidence:

PSA Repair Manual 607/C6

Location:

Stamped on the front face of the cylinder block, near the gearbox bellhousing (PSA Repair Manual 607/C6).

Visual Cues:

  • Black plastic intake manifold
  • '2.2 16V' badge on cam cover
  • Individual coil packs on spark plugs
Oil Specification

Evidence:

PSA Service Bulletin SB-08-05

Consequence:

Use of incorrect oil can lead to VVT solenoid failure, triggering fault codes and reduced performance.

Requirement:

Mandatory use of PSA B71 2290 (5W-40) specification oil to protect the VVT system.

Common Reliability Issues - PEUGEOT 3FY-EW12J4

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.

Variable Valve Timing (VVT) Solenoid/Phaser Failure
Symptoms: Check engine light (P0011/P0021 codes), rough idle, loss of power, rattling noise from timing cover.
Cause: Clogging or mechanical wear of the VVT solenoid or phaser due to oil sludge, incorrect oil viscosity, or infrequent oil changes.
Fix: Replace the faulty VVT solenoid or phaser assembly with the latest OEM-specified part; flush the engine and ensure correct oil specification is used.
Timing Chain Tensioner Wear
Symptoms: Rattling noise from the front of the engine (especially on cold start), potential for timing jump if severe.
Cause: Wear of the hydraulic tensioner piston or guide rails over high mileage, exacerbated by oil degradation.
Fix: Replace the timing chain tensioner and inspect/replace chain and guides if wear is evident; verify timing is correctly set after repair.
Coolant Leaks from Thermostat Housing
Symptoms: Coolant smell, low coolant level, visible leaks around the front of the engine near the thermostat.
Cause: Age-related cracking of the plastic thermostat housing or failure of the integrated O-ring seal.
Fix: Replace the entire thermostat housing assembly with an OEM part; do not attempt to reseal the old unit.
Intake Manifold Runner Control Issues
Symptoms: Hesitation, poor fuel economy, check engine light (P2004-P2008 codes), rough idle.
Cause: Failure of the vacuum actuators or linkage for the variable intake manifold runners, or carbon buildup jamming the flaps.
Fix: Inspect and replace vacuum hoses and actuators; clean intake manifold runners if accessible; replace manifold if flaps are seized.
Research Basis

Analysis derived from PSA technical bulletins (2005-2010) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.

Frequently Asked Questions about PEUGEOT 3FY-EW12J4

Find answers to most commonly asked questions about PEUGEOT 3FY-EW12J4.

Research Resources

Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references

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Last Updated: 16 August 2025

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