Engine Code

PEUGEOT KF6 engine (1997–2001) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

The Peugeot KF6 is a 2,946 cc, V6 naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1997 and 2001. It features an aluminium alloy block and heads with double overhead camshafts (DOHC) and four valves per cylinder. This engine, part of PSA's ES/L engine family co-developed with Renault, was designed for smooth, refined power delivery in executive vehicles.

Fitted primarily to the Peugeot 607 and Citroën C5, the KF6 was engineered for quiet, effortless cruising and strong mid-range torque. Emissions compliance for its production period was managed through sequential multi-point fuel injection and a dual catalytic converter system, meeting Euro 3 standards.

One documented concern is potential failure of the plastic coolant elbows and thermostat housing, which can lead to coolant leaks and overheating. This issue, referenced in PSA service documentation, is attributed to material degradation under prolonged thermal stress. Revised components using more heat-resistant materials were introduced during the production run.

Peugeot Engine
Compliance Note:

Production years 1997–2001 meet Euro 3 standards for passenger vehicles (UTAC Type Approval).

KF6 Technical Specifications

The Peugeot KF6 is a 2,946 cc V6 naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for executive sedans and estates (1997-2001). It combines sequential multi-point fuel injection with a DOHC 24-valve cylinder head to deliver smooth, linear power and refined operation. Designed to meet Euro 3 emissions standards, it prioritized NVH (Noise, Vibration, Harshness) refinement for luxury applications.

ParameterValueSource
Displacement2,946 cc
Fuel typePetrol
ConfigurationV6, DOHC, 24-valve
AspirationNaturally aspirated
Bore × stroke87.0 mm × 82.6 mm
Power output147 kW (200 PS) @ 6,000 rpm
Torque285 Nm @ 4,000 rpm
Fuel systemSequential multi-point fuel injection (SAGEM)
Emissions standardEuro 3
Compression ratio10.0:1
Cooling systemWater‑cooled
TurbochargerNone
Timing systemChain-driven (maintenance-free design)
Oil type10W-40 mineral or semi-synthetic
Dry weightNot available in public OEM docs
Practical Implications

The V6 configuration provides a smooth, refined driving experience but requires vigilance for coolant system integrity. The original plastic coolant elbows and thermostat housing are known failure points; replacing them with revised OEM metal or reinforced plastic parts is a critical preventative measure. Using the specified 10W-40 oil ensures proper lubrication for the hydraulic tappets and timing chain. The SAGEM injection system is generally robust but requires clean fuel and functioning sensors for optimal performance.

Data Verification Notes

Oil Specs: Requires 10W-40 mineral or semi-synthetic specification (PSA Service Manual 9615). Modern ACEA A3/B3 10W-40 synthetic is an acceptable equivalent.

Emissions: Certified to Euro 3 standards for all production years (UTAC Type Approval).

Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards (PSA Group PT-2000). Output is consistent across verified applications.

Primary Sources

PSA Service Manual 9615 (ES/L Engine Family)

PSA Technical Bulletin TB 9615/01

UTAC (Union Technique de l'Automobile) Type Approval Archives

PSA Group Powertrain Specifications (PT-2000)

KF6 Compatible Models

The Peugeot KF6 was used primarily in Peugeot's flagship executive sedan with longitudinal mounting. This engine was the top petrol unit for the first-generation 607 and was also fitted to the equivalent Citroën C5 V6 models. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.

Make:
Peugeot
Years:
1999–2001
Models:
607
Variants:
All
View Source
PSA EPC Ref. 9615.XX
Make:
Citroën
Years:
2001–2001
Models:
C5
Variants:
V6 Exclusive
View Source
PSA EPC Ref. 9615.XX
Identification Guidance

The engine code "KF6" is typically stamped on a flat machined surface on the front face of the left cylinder bank, near the alternator. The 8th digit of the VIN for a Peugeot 607 V6 is 'V'. Key visual identifiers include the large, wide V6 engine layout, twin cam covers, and the air intake plenum spanning both cylinder banks. Critical differentiation from the smaller 2.2L V6 (ES9): The KF6 has a larger displacement (2.9L vs 2.2L) and a visibly longer engine block.

Coolant System Integrity

Issue:

The plastic coolant elbows and thermostat housing are prone to cracking and leaking due to thermal cycling and material fatigue.

Evidence:

PSA Service Bulletin SB 9615/08

Recommendation:

Proactively replace the original plastic coolant components with the latest revised OEM parts (often metal or glass-reinforced plastic) to prevent unexpected coolant loss and potential engine overheating.
Timing Chain

Reason:

A failed tensioner can cause chain slack, leading to noise, timing inaccuracies, and potentially catastrophic engine damage in this interference design.

Evidence:

PSA Service Manual 9615

Requirement:

While designed as maintenance-free, the timing chain should be inspected for wear and tensioner function during major services (e.g., 150,000 km).

Common Reliability Issues - PEUGEOT KF6

The KF6's primary reliability risk is coolant system failure due to degraded plastic components, which can lead to rapid engine overheating. PSA internal service data and owner club records consistently highlight this as a common cause of breakdowns in higher-mileage vehicles. Neglecting this preventative maintenance or using incorrect oil can significantly increase the risk of major mechanical failure, making proactive component replacement critical.

Coolant elbow and thermostat housing leaks
Symptoms: Visible coolant leaks (often green or orange fluid) from the front or sides of the engine, low coolant level warning, engine overheating, sweet smell.
Cause: Ageing and thermal stress causing the original plastic coolant pipes and thermostat housing to become brittle and crack, particularly at connection points.
Fix: Replace all plastic coolant elbows and the thermostat housing with the latest revised OEM parts. Flush and refill the cooling system with the correct coolant type.
Intake manifold runner control failure
Symptoms: Loss of power, especially at low RPM, rough idle, illuminated MIL (Malfunction Indicator Lamp), poor fuel economy.
Cause: Failure of the vacuum actuators or electronic solenoids controlling the variable-length intake manifold runners, preventing optimal air flow for different engine speeds.
Fix: Diagnose using a scan tool to check actuator operation. Replace faulty vacuum actuators, solenoids, or the entire intake manifold assembly if necessary.
Hydraulic tappet noise
Symptoms: Ticking or tapping noise from the top of the engine, most noticeable at idle or on cold start.
Cause: Wear, internal leakage, or sludge buildup preventing tappets from maintaining zero lash. Often accelerated by infrequent oil changes or wrong oil viscosity.
Fix: Replace noisy tappets. Ensure correct oil type and change intervals are followed. Clean oil passages if heavily sludged.
Ignition coil failure
Symptoms: Engine misfires, rough idle, lack of power, illuminated MIL, difficulty starting.
Cause: Ageing and heat cycling causing the internal windings of the coil-on-plug units to fail, a common issue in PSA vehicles of this era.
Fix: Replace the faulty ignition coil(s). It is often recommended to replace all coils preventatively if one has failed due to similar age and operating conditions.
Research Basis

Analysis derived from PSA technical bulletins (1997-2001) and aggregated data from Peugeot/Citroën owner club technical forums. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.

Frequently Asked Questions about PEUGEOT KF6

Find answers to most commonly asked questions about PEUGEOT KF6.

Research Resources

Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references

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Primary Sources

PEUGEOT Official Site

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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.

Official Documentation

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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: 16 August 2025

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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