The Peugeot 3FZ (EW12J4) is a 2,231 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2001 and 2010. It features a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) design with 16 valves and electronic fuel injection, delivering outputs between 115 kW (156 PS) and 122 kW (165 PS) with torque figures of 217–220 Nm. Variable valve timing (VVT) on the intake camshaft optimises power delivery across the rev range.
Fitted to models such as the 407, 607, and C5, the 3FZ (EW12J4) was engineered for refined, comfortable cruising and adequate power for larger executive vehicles. Emissions compliance was achieved through precise fuel metering and catalytic conversion, allowing the engine to meet Euro 3 and later Euro 4 standards depending on the model year.
One documented concern is premature wear of the dephaser pulley (variable cam timing actuator), which can cause timing-related faults and reduced performance. This issue, referenced in Peugeot service documentation, is often linked to oil quality or extended service intervals. Later production runs incorporated revised pulley components.
Production years 2001–2005 meet Euro 3 standards; 2006–2010 models meet Euro 4 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Peugeot 3FZ (EW12J4) is a 2,231 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engineered for executive sedans and estates (2001-2010). It combines electronic fuel injection with variable valve timing to deliver smooth, linear power and refined cruising. Designed to meet Euro 3 and Euro 4 standards, it balances performance with acceptable emissions.
| 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 | 115–122 kW (156–165 PS) | |
| Torque | 217–220 Nm @ 4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Sequential multi‑point injection (Bosch ME7.4.4) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 3 (2001–2005); Euro 4 (2006–2010) | |
| Compression ratio | 10.4:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain‑driven (intake cam VVT pulley) | |
| Oil type | Peugeot 9736.A3 (SAE 5W‑40) | |
| Dry weight | 148 kg |
The naturally aspirated design offers predictable, linear power delivery ideal for relaxed highway driving but requires high-quality 5W-40 oil (Peugeot 9736.A3) to protect the variable cam timing (VCT) dephaser pulley. Extended oil change intervals beyond 15,000 km risk premature pulley wear, leading to timing faults and potential engine damage. The Bosch ME7.4.4 ECU is sensitive to fuel quality; use of substandard petrol can trigger misfire codes. Regular inspection of the timing chain tensioner is advised after 120,000 km, though the chain itself is generally robust.
Oil Specs: Requires Peugeot 9736.A3 (SAE 5W-40) specification (Peugeot Technical Manual 9081.A3). ACEA A3/B4 compliant.
Emissions: Euro 3 certification applies to 2001-2005 models; Euro 4 applies to 2006-2010 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
Power Ratings: Measured under ECE R85 standards. Output varies by model application (Peugeot Group PT-2010).
Peugeot Technical Information System: Docs 9081.A3, SIB 091205
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
ECE Regulation 85: Engine Power Measurement
The Peugeot 3FZ (EW12J4) was used across Peugeot's PF3 platform with longitudinal mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced engine mounts in the 607 and revised intake manifolds for the C5-and from 2006 the facelifted models adopted updated emissions hardware to meet Euro 4, creating minor ECU calibration differences. 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 (Peugeot TIS 9081.A3). The 8th VIN digit typically corresponds to the engine code ('F' for 3FZ series). Pre-2006 models have a silver cam cover with a distinct 'EW12' casting; post-2006 units may have minor revisions to the VVT pulley housing. Critical differentiation from the EW10: The EW12 has a 2.2L displacement (vs 2.0L) and unique intake manifold design. Service parts, particularly for the VVT system, require verification against the vehicle's production date due to pulley design updates (Peugeot SIB 091205).
The 3FZ (EW12J4)'s primary reliability risk is dephaser pulley failure, with elevated incidence in vehicles subjected to extended oil change intervals. Peugeot internal service data indicates a notable failure rate after 100,000 km in poorly maintained engines, while general owner reports frequently cite the resulting rattle and loss of performance. Use of incorrect oil viscosity or infrequent changes accelerates wear, making adherence to the specified 5W-40 oil and service schedule critical.
Analysis derived from Peugeot technical bulletins (2005-2010) and owner-reported failure data (2010-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about PEUGEOT 3FZ-EW12J4.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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