Engine Code

Peugeot 8FS-EP3 Engine (2001–2006) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

The Peugeot 8FS (EP3) is a 1,360 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2001 and 2006. It features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) valvetrain with 16 valves, delivering a focus on simplicity and cost — effective urban mobility. In standard tune, it produces 55 kW (75 PS) and 117 Nm of torque, suitable for light, economical city driving.

Fitted to entry — level models like the 206 and Partner, the 8FS was engineered for low purchase price and runn

Peugeot Engine
Compliance Note:

All production years (2001–2006) meet Euro 3 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/4567).

Peugeot 8FS-EP3 Technical Specifications

The Peugeot 8FS (EP3) is a 1,360 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for compact hatchbacks and light vans (2001-2006). It combines a SOHC 16-valve valvetrain with multi-point fuel injection to deliver adequate power for city driving and respectable fuel economy. Designed to meet Euro 3 standards, it prioritizes mechanical simplicity and low-cost maintenance.

ParameterValueSource
Displacement
1,360 cc
Fuel type
Petrol
Configuration
Inline‑4, SOHC, 16‑valve
Aspiration
Naturally aspirated
Bore × stroke
75.0 mm × 77.0 mm
Power output
55 kW (75 PS)
Torque
117 Nm @ 3,000 rpm
Fuel system
Multi-point fuel injection (SAGEM)
Emissions standard
Euro 3
Compression ratio
10.5:1
Cooling system
Water‑cooled
Timing system
Belt-driven
Oil type
Stellantis 9.55535-S2 (SAE 10W-40)
Dry weight
95 kg

Peugeot 8FS-EP3 Compatible Models

The Peugeot 8FS (EP3) was used across Peugeot's PF1 platform with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-unique exhaust systems for the Partner van-creating minor part number differences. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.

Make:
Peugeot
Years:
2001–2006
Models:
206 (Phase 2)
Variants:
1.4i, XR, XS
View Source
Stellantis Group PT-2023
Make:
Peugeot
Years:
2002–2006
Models:
Partner (Phase 2)
Variants:
Professional, Tepee
View Source
Stellantis ETK Doc. EP3-001

Common Reliability Issues - PEUGEOT 8FS-EP3 Compatible Models

The 8FS (EP3)'s primary documented concern is timing belt tensioner pulley failure, with elevated incidence in vehicles subjected to high ambient temperatures or neglected maintenance. PSA internal data indicates a measurable failure rate if the belt is not replaced per schedule, while UK DVSA records show no significant correlation with MOT failures. Vehicles used in hot climates or with high mileage make strict adherence to the replacement interval critical.

Timing belt tensioner pulley failure
Symptoms: Squealing or chirping noise from the front of the engine, especially at idle or low RPM, potential timing belt slippage codes.
Cause: Degradation of the tensioner pulley's sealed bearing due to heat cycles and age, leading to loss of tension and potential belt slippage or failure.
Fix: Replace the timing belt, tensioner pulley, and idler pulley as a complete kit with OEM-specified parts per service bulletin 08FS01EN01; inspect water pump for signs of leakage during replacement.
Ignition coil failure
Symptoms: Engine misfire, especially in damp conditions, loss of power, increased fuel consumption, flashing check engine light.
Cause: Internal breakdown of the ignition coil's insulation or cracking of the casing due to heat cycles and vibration, leading to insufficient spark energy or arcing to ground.
Fix: Replace the faulty ignition coil(s) with OEM-specified parts; it is often recommended to replace all coils simultaneously if one fails due to similar age and operating conditions.
Thermostat housing cracks
Symptoms: Coolant leaks around the thermostat housing (usually at the top of the engine), low coolant level warning, potential overheating.
Cause: Cracking of the plastic thermostat housing due to thermal stress and age, a common issue on many PSA engines of this era.
Fix: Replace the thermostat housing assembly with an OEM part; replace the thermostat and coolant at the same time; ensure all hose clamps are correctly torqued.
Oil leaks from camshaft cover gasket
Symptoms: Oil residue on the top of the engine, burning oil smell, drips on the garage floor or engine undertray.
Cause: Shrinkage or hardening of the rubber camshaft cover gasket due to age and heat cycles, allowing oil to seep out from the mating surface.
Fix: Replace the camshaft cover gasket with an OEM part; clean the mating surfaces thoroughly; ensure the cover bolts are torqued to specification in the correct sequence.
Research Basis

Analysis derived from PSA technical bulletins (2002-2006) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2010-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.

PEUGEOT 8FS-EP3 FAQ Common Questions Answered

The most common questions about engine codes, what they mean, how to find them and how this database works

The 8FS is a fundamentally simple and robust engine. Its main critical issue is the timing belt and tensioner, which must be replaced at 80,000 km or 5 years without fail to prevent catastrophic engine damage. With this maintenance performed and regular oil changes, it can be very reliable for high mileage.

The most critical issue is timing belt tensioner pulley failure, which can lead to belt breakage. Other common concerns include ignition coil failure, plastic thermostat housing cracks causing coolant leaks, and camshaft cover gasket oil leaks. These are well-documented in PSA service bulletins.

This 1.4L petrol engine was used in the second-phase 206 (2001-2006) and the second-phase Partner van/MPV (2002-2006). It was typically found in base and mid-range trim levels like 1.4i and XR.

Limited tuning potential exists due to its SOHC design and low state of tune. ECU remapping can yield minor gains (5-8 kW), primarily by optimizing fuel and ignition maps. Significant power increases are not practical or cost-effective on this engine.

Official combined figures are around 6.5-7.0 L/100km (40-43 mpg UK) for a 206 1.4i. Real-world mixed driving typically yields 7.0-8.5 L/100km (33-40 mpg UK), with careful highway driving potentially achieving under 6.0 L/100km (47+ mpg UK).

Yes. This is a critical point. The 8FS is an interference engine. If the timing belt snaps or jumps teeth, the pistons will collide with the open valves, causing severe and expensive engine damage. This makes adhering to the 80,000 km/5-year replacement interval absolutely essential.

It requires a 10W-40 mineral or semi-synthetic oil meeting the Stellantis 9.55535-S2 specification. Using the correct oil is important for engine longevity. Change intervals are typically 15,000 km or annually.

Research Resources

Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references

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Primary Sources

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.

Regulatory Context

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.

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Last Updated: 25 Feb 2026

All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialPEUGEOT documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed”.

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