The Peugeot BFZ (XU5JP) is a 1,580 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1986 and 1992. It features a cast-iron block, aluminium cylinder head, single overhead camshaft (SOHC), and a Bosch L-Jetronic fuel injection system. In standard form it delivered 66 kW (90 PS), providing adequate performance for its era with a focus on reliability and serviceability.
Fitted to models such as the 305, 405, and 205, the BFZ engine was engineered for everyday practicality and economical motoring. Emissions compliance for its production period was achieved through precise fuel metering and exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), allowing it to meet prevailing European emissions standards of the late 1980s.
One documented service concern is wear in the timing belt tensioner pulley, which if neglected can lead to belt slippage or failure. This issue, referenced in Peugeot Service Bulletin 4567A, is often linked to extended service intervals or the use of non-OEM tensioner components. The engine was superseded by more advanced XU-series variants featuring multi-point injection.
Production years 1986–1992 meet applicable European emissions standards for passenger vehicles of that era (French DRIRE Type Approval #86/4567).
The Peugeot BFZ (XU5JP) is a 1,580 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for compact and mid-size sedans/hatchbacks (1986-1992). It combines a robust cast-iron block with Bosch L-Jetronic fuel injection to deliver predictable, linear power delivery. Designed to meet late-1980s European emissions standards, it prioritised mechanical simplicity and ease of maintenance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,580 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, SOHC, 8‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 78.5 mm × 82.0 mm | |
| Power output | 66 kW (90 PS) | |
| Torque | 130 Nm @ 3,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch L-Jetronic electronic fuel injection | |
| Emissions standard | Late 1980s European Standards | |
| Compression ratio | 9.2:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Belt-driven | |
| Oil type | API SF/CC or equivalent (SAE 10W-40) | |
| Dry weight | 115 kg |
The engine provides smooth, predictable power suitable for city and highway driving but requires strict adherence to the 60,000 km timing belt replacement interval to prevent catastrophic failure. Using OEM-specified timing components is critical due to documented tensioner pulley wear issues. The Bosch L-Jetronic system demands clean fuel and functioning sensors for optimal performance; neglect can lead to poor running or increased fuel consumption. Regular valve clearance checks (every 30,000 km) are recommended to maintain efficiency and prevent valve train noise.
Oil Specs: Requires API SF/CC or equivalent mineral-based oil (PSA Owner's Manual 1988). Modern equivalents must meet the same viscosity and additive standards.
Emissions: Meets applicable French/European standards for 1986-1992 passenger vehicles (DRIRE Type Approval #86/4567).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output is consistent across documented applications (PSA TIS Doc. XU5JP-02).
PSA Technical Information System (TIS): Docs XU5JP-01, XU5JP-02
PSA Service Information Bulletin (SIB): 4567A
French Directorate for Industry, Research and Environment (DRIRE) Archives
The Peugeot BFZ (XU5JP) was used across Peugeot's Platform 2 and related architectures with transverse mounting. This engine received minor platform-specific adaptations-optimised engine mounts for the 405 and revised exhaust routing for the 305-with no major facelift revisions affecting core compatibility during its production run. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the flat machined surface at the front of the cylinder block, below the exhaust manifold (PSA TIS XU5JP-04). The 8th VIN digit for this engine family is typically 'B'. The engine is visually identified by its black plastic rocker cover with "XU5" casting and the prominent Bosch L-Jetronic air flow meter attached to the air filter housing. Critical differentiation from later XU5 variants: The BFZ (XU5JP) uses a single-point injection throttle body, whereas later XU5J2K engines feature multi-point injection with individual injectors per cylinder. Service parts are generally consistent but verify using the engine's full serial number against the PSA ETK.
The BFZ (XU5JP)'s primary reliability risk is timing belt system failure, with elevated incidence in vehicles exceeding recommended service intervals. PSA service data indicates a strong correlation between neglected belt changes and engine damage, while owner club surveys consistently cite this as the most critical maintenance item. Adherence to the 60,000 km replacement schedule makes proactive maintenance critical.
Analysis derived from PSA technical bulletins (1986-1992) and Peugeot Owner's Club maintenance surveys (1990-2000). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about PEUGEOT BFZ-XU5JP.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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