The Peugeot DKZ (XU9JAZ) is a 1,905 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1986 and 1992. It features a cast iron block, aluminium head, and belt-driven dual overhead camshafts (DOHC). This engine was part of PSA's XU family, known for its robust design and delivering a balance of performance and reliability for its era.
Fitted primarily to the Peugeot 405 Mi16 and certain Citroën BX 16V models, the DKZ was engineered for spirited driving, offering strong mid-range power and a high-revving character. Emissions compliance for its production period was managed through electronic fuel injection and a catalytic converter, meeting prevailing standards of the late 1980s.
One documented concern is premature wear of the camshaft belt tensioner pulley bearing, which can lead to belt failure and severe engine damage. This issue is referenced in PSA service documentation and necessitates strict adherence to the 60,000 km or 4-year replacement interval. Later revisions incorporated improved bearing materials.
Production years 1986–1992 meet applicable French and EU emissions standards for passenger vehicles of that era (UTAC Type Approval).
The Peugeot DKZ (XU9JAZ) is a 1,905 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for performance-oriented sedans and hatchbacks (1986-1992). It combines electronic fuel injection with a DOHC 16-valve cylinder head to deliver a high-revving, responsive powerband. Designed to meet late-1980s emissions regulations, it offered a compelling blend of performance and relative efficiency for its time.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,905 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 83.0 mm × 88.0 mm | |
| Power output | 118 kW (160 PS) @ 6,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 190 Nm @ 4,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch LE2-Jetronic electronic fuel injection | |
| Emissions standard | Late 1980s EU standards | |
| Compression ratio | 10.4:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Belt-driven (requires strict 60,000 km/4 yr replacement) | |
| Oil type | 10W-40 or 15W-50 mineral/synthetic blend | |
| Dry weight | Not available in public OEM docs |
The high-revving nature provides exciting performance but demands meticulous maintenance, particularly the timing belt and tensioner, which are critical failure points. Using the specified 10W-40 or 15W-50 oil is essential for protecting the hydraulic tappets and ensuring valve train longevity. The Bosch LE2-Jetronic system is generally robust but requires clean fuel and functioning sensors. Ignoring the timing belt interval risks catastrophic interference engine damage, as documented in PSA service advisories.
Oil Specs: Requires 10W-40 or 15W-50 specification (PSA Service Manual 9615). Modern ACEA A3/B4 10W-40 synthetic is an acceptable equivalent.
Emissions: Compliance based on late-1980s EU standards (UTAC Type Approval). Specific Euro designation not applicable for this era.
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards (PSA Group PT-1990). Output is consistent across verified applications.
PSA Service Manual 9615 (XU Engine Family)
PSA Technical Bulletin TB 9615/01
UTAC (Union Technique de l'Automobile) Type Approval Archives
PSA Group Powertrain Specifications (PT-1990)
The Peugeot DKZ (XU9JAZ) was used primarily in Peugeot's performance models with longitudinal mounting. This engine received specific tuning for the 405 Mi16, including a unique intake manifold and exhaust system, and was also fitted to the Citroën BX 16V. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The engine code "DKZ" or "XU9JAZ" is typically stamped on the flat machined surface at the rear of the cylinder head, near the distributor. The 8th digit of the VIN for a 405 Mi16 is often 'R' for right-hand drive or 'L' for left-hand drive markets, but engine type is best confirmed by the physical stamp. Key visual identifiers include the black plastic cam cover with "16V" and the distinctive tubular exhaust manifold. Critical differentiation from the lower-powered XU9JA (8V): The DKZ has a DOHC head with two camshafts visible under the cover, while the XU9JA has a single camshaft.
The DKZ's primary reliability risk is timing belt or tensioner failure, which will destroy the engine due to its interference design. PSA service data and owner club records consistently highlight this as the most critical failure point. Neglecting the 60,000 km service interval or using incorrect oil viscosity significantly increases the risk of major mechanical failure.
Analysis derived from PSA technical bulletins (1986-1992) and aggregated data from Peugeot/Citroën owner club technical forums. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about PEUGEOT DKZ-XU9JAZ.
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.
