The Peugeot KFU (ET3J4) is a 1,360 cc, inline‑four, naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2000 and 2010. It features an aluminum block and head, with a dual overhead camshaft design driven by a timing belt. Peak output is 55 kW (75 PS) and 116 Nm of torque, providing adequate performance for compact city cars of its era.
Fitted primarily to the Peugeot 206 and Citroën C3, the KFU was engineered for economical, reliable urban motoring with low emissions. Emission…
Production years 2000–2010 meet Euro 3 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7890).
The Peugeot KFU (ET3J4) is a 1,360 cc inline‑four petrol engine engineered for superminis (2000-2010). It combines multi-point fuel injection with a DOHC 16-valve head to deliver responsive low-end torque and improved emissions control. Designed to meet Euro 3 standards, it balances urban efficiency with everyday drivability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 1,360 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol | |
Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
Bore × stroke | 75.0 mm × 77.0 mm | |
Power output | 55 kW (75 PS) @ 5,500 rpm | |
Torque | 116 Nm @ 3,000 rpm | |
Fuel system | Multi-point fuel injection (Siemens) | |
Emissions standard | Euro 3 | |
Compression ratio | 10.2:1 | |
Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
Turbocharger | None | |
Timing system | Belt‑driven | |
Oil type | ACEA A3/B3 (SAE 5W‑40) | |
Dry weight | 98 kg |
The Peugeot KFU (ET3J4) was used across Peugeot's 206 platform and Citroën's C3 with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-minor ECU mapping for dashboard integration-and no significant facelift revisions affecting core components during its production run, ensuring broad interchangeability. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The KFU's primary reliability risk is timing belt failure due to tensioner pulley wear, with elevated incidence in high-mileage vehicles. Peugeot service data indicates the plastic tensioner is a common failure point by 100,000 km, while UK DVSA records show ignition coil faults as a frequent cause of MOT failures. Infrequent oil changes can accelerate camshaft wear, making adherence to the maintenance schedule critical.
Analysis derived from Peugeot technical bulletins (2000-2010) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2005-2015). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
The most common questions about engine codes, what they mean, how to find them and how this database works
The KFU is generally very reliable if basic maintenance is performed. Its main vulnerability is the plastic timing belt tensioner, which must be replaced with the metal upgrade. With strict adherence to the 80,000 km belt change interval and regular oil changes, these engines can easily reach 200,000 km or more without major issues.
The most frequent issues are timing belt/tensioner failure (due to the plastic pulley), ignition coil pack failure causing misfires, and throttle body carbon buildup leading to rough idle. Oil leaks from the valve cover gasket are also common. These are well-documented in Peugeot service bulletins.
This engine was fitted to the Peugeot 206 (2000-2008) in 1.4i, XR, and XS trims. Due to PSA Group sharing, it's also found in the Citroën C3 (2002-2010) in 1.4i and VTR trims. It's a very common engine in early 2000s superminis.
Modest gains are possible. A simple ECU remap can yield 5-10 extra PS. More significant power requires intake and exhaust modifications, and potentially a higher-lift camshaft. Most owners find the engine adequate for city driving and prioritize reliability over power gains.
Very good for its time. Expect 6.0-7.0 L/100km (40-47 mpg UK) on the highway and 8.0-9.0 L/100km (31-35 mpg UK) in the city. Combined, a figure of 7.0-7.5 L/100km (38-40 mpg UK) is typical for a well-driven 206 or C3.
Yes. Like virtually all modern engines, the KFU is an interference design. If the timing belt snaps or jumps, the pistons will collide with the valves, causing severe and expensive internal damage. This makes the 80,000 km belt change interval non-negotiable.
Peugeot recommends a 5W-40 synthetic or semi-synthetic oil meeting ACEA A3/B3 specifications. High-quality oil is crucial for protecting the DOHC valvetrain. Change intervals should not exceed 15,000 km or 12 months.
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.