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. Emissions compliance was achieved through multi-point fuel injection and precise engine management, meeting Euro 3 standards for its production period.
One documented concern is premature failure of the plastic timing belt tensioner pulley, which can lead to belt slippage or breakage. This issue, referenced in Peugeot Technical Note 2003‑07, is often caused by material fatigue under high heat cycles. Later ET3 variants transitioned to metal tensioner components for improved durability.
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 DOHC 16-valve design offers improved efficiency and torque over older 8-valve engines but requires strict adherence to the 80,000 km timing belt replacement interval to prevent catastrophic interference engine damage. The plastic tensioner pulley is a known wear item; replace it with the updated metal version per Peugeot Technical Note 2003-07 during every belt service. ACEA A3/B3 5W-40 oil is recommended for optimal valve train protection. The high 10.2:1 compression ratio demands good quality 95 RON petrol for smooth operation.
Oil Specs: Requires ACEA A3/B3 specification oil (Peugeot Service Manual 2003-07). Synthetic or semi-synthetic 5W-40 is typical.
Emissions: Euro 3 certification applies to all 2000-2010 production (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7890).
Power Ratings: Measured under EEC 80/1269 standards. Output is consistent across model range (Peugeot Group PT-2005).
Peugeot Technical Information System: Docs 2003-07, EPC 1360B
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/7890)
EEC Directive 80/1269 Power Measurement Standards
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.
Locate the engine code stamped on a flat boss on the front face of the cylinder block, near the timing belt cover (Peugeot Service Manual 2003-07). The full designation "ET3J4" or "KFU" will be visible. Visually, it is identifiable by its silver aluminum valve cover with "16V" embossed on it and the Siemens multi-point fuel injection rail. Critical differentiation from the 1.6L TU5: The KFU has a smaller displacement (1.4L vs 1.6L) and a visibly shorter intake manifold. The plastic timing belt tensioner pulley is a key identifier for early models.
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.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about PEUGEOT KFU-ET3J4.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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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)
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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
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