The Peugeot D6C (XU9J4) is a 1,905 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1986 and 1992. It features a cast-iron block, an aluminium cylinder head with a single overhead camshaft (SOHC), and a Bosch L-Jetronic fuel injection system. This engine was designed for spirited performance in Peugeot's compact models, producing 95 kW (129 PS) and 160 Nm of torque.
Fitted primarily to the 405 Mi16 and 309 GTI 16V, the D6C (XU9J4) was engineered to deliver a high-revving, engaging character for its era. It offered a balance of power and handling dynamics for sporty road use. Emissions compliance for its production period was met through precise fuel metering and exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), aligning with prevailing Euro 1 standards.
One documented area of focus is the potential for premature wear of the camshaft and rocker arms under high-RPM conditions. PSA service documentation recommends adherence to strict oil change intervals and the use of high-quality oil to mitigate wear. No major mid-cycle revisions were issued for this specific variant before its phase-out.
All production years (1986–1992) meet the emissions standards applicable at time of manufacture (Pre-Euro or Euro 1, VCA UK Type Approval historical records).
The Peugeot D6C (XU9J4) is a 1,905 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for performance-oriented compact models (1986-1992). It combines a robust cast-iron block with Bosch L-Jetronic fuel injection to deliver a high-revving, linear power band. Designed for the emissions regulations of its era, it prioritizes mechanical feedback and driver engagement.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,905 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, SOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 83.0 mm × 88.0 mm | |
| Power output | 95 kW (129 PS) | |
| Torque | 160 Nm @ 4,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch L-Jetronic electronic fuel injection | |
| Emissions standard | Pre-Euro / Euro 1 (market dependent) | |
| Compression ratio | 10.4:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Belt-driven | |
| Oil type | PSA B71 2030 (SAE 10W‑40) | |
| Dry weight | 125 kg |
The 16-valve SOHC design offers a high-revving, engaging character but demands strict adherence to the 60,000 km or 4-year timing belt replacement interval to prevent catastrophic failure. Using PSA B71 2030 (10W-40) oil is critical for protecting the camshaft and rocker arms from premature wear under spirited driving. The Bosch L-Jetronic system requires clean fuel and functioning sensors; vacuum leaks or a failing airflow meter are common causes of drivability issues. Regular inspection of the ignition system is advised.
Oil Specs: Requires PSA B71 2030 (10W-40) specification or equivalent quality mineral/synthetic blend (PSA Owner's Manual 1989).
Emissions: Certified to prevailing national standards (Pre-Euro/Euro 1) at time of manufacture (VCA Historical Records).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output consistent across 95 RON fuel grades (PSA TIS Doc. CALIB-XU9).
PSA Technical Information System (TIS): Docs MOTEUR-XU9, CALIB-XU9
PSA Service Information Bulletin (SIB): 0502 A 87
UK Vehicle Certification Agency Historical Records
PSA Owner's Manual (1989)
The Peugeot D6C (XU9J4) was used across PSA Group's compact platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-optimized intake manifolds for the 405 Mi16 and revised engine mounts for the 309 GTI 16V. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the flat machined surface at the rear of the cylinder block, near the gearbox bellhousing (PSA TIS Doc. IDENT-XU9). The 8th VIN digit typically corresponds to the engine type ('C' for D6C/XU9J4 in many applications). Visually, it features a black plastic airbox and a distinctive ribbed rocker cover with '16V' branding. Critical differentiation from other XU9 variants: D6C (XU9J4) has a specific high-lift camshaft and 16-valve cylinder head. Service parts, particularly the head and cam, are specific to this performance variant; always verify using the vehicle's VIN in the PSA EPC.
The D6C (XU9J4)'s primary reliability risk is timing belt failure if neglected, with near-total incidence of severe engine damage in documented cases. PSA internal service data indicates the majority of failures occur well beyond the recommended 60,000 km interval. High-RPM use accelerates wear on the camshaft and rocker arms, making preventative maintenance and oil quality critical.
Analysis derived from PSA technical bulletins (1986-1992) and historical workshop data. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about PEUGEOT D6C-XU9J4.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
Independent Technical Reference
EngineCode.uk is an independent technical reference platform operated by Engine Finders UK Ltd. We are not affiliated with PEUGEOT or any other manufacturer. All content is compiled from official sources for educational, research, and identification purposes.
Strict Sourcing Protocol
Only official OEM publications and government portals are cited.
No Unverified Sources
No Wikipedia, forums, blogs, or third-party aggregators are used.
Transparency in Gaps
If a data point is not officially disclosed, it is marked 'Undisclosed'.
Regulatory Stability
EU regulations are referenced using CELEX identifiers for long-term stability.
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.
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.
Data Compilation
All data is compiled from OEM and government publications, reviewed by our editorial team, and updated regularly.
Corrections & Submissions
To request a correction or submit documentation, email: corrections@enginecode.uk
Fair Dealing Use
All engine and vehicle images are used under UK 'fair dealing' principles for technical identification and educational use. Rights remain with their respective owners.
Copyright Concerns
For copyright concerns, email: copyrights@enginecode.uk
GDPR Compliance
EngineCode.uk complies with UK GDPR. We do not collect personal data unless explicitly provided.
Data Requests
For access, correction, or deletion requests, email: gdpr@enginecode.uk
Trademark Notice
All trademarks, logos, and engine codes are the property of their respective owners. Use on this site is strictly for reference and identification.
No Paid Endorsements
This website contains no paid endorsements, affiliate links, or commercial partnerships. We do not sell parts or services.
Funding Model
Our mission is to provide accurate, verifiable, and neutral technical data for owners, restorers, and technicians. This site is self-funded.
All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialPEUGEOT documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed“ .
All external links open in new tabs. Please verify current availability of resources.
