Engine Code

PEUGEOT LFW-XU7JP engine (1996–2001) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

The Peugeot LFW (XU7JP) is a 1,360 cc, inline‑four petrol engine produced between 1996 and 2001. It features a cast iron block, aluminium cylinder head, and a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) with 8 valves. This naturally aspirated unit delivered 55 kW (75 PS) and 110 Nm of torque, engineered for economical, dependable performance in Peugeot's compact lineup.

Fitted primarily to the 306 and 405, the LFW was designed for drivers prioritising low running costs and urban practicality with adequate highway capability. Emissions compliance for its production period was managed through multi-point fuel injection and a catalytic converter, meeting the prevailing Euro 2 standards.

One documented engineering update addressed potential failure of the camshaft timing belt tensioner pulley bearing, identified in Peugeot Technical Note 97B04. This issue, linked to inadequate lubrication in early production, could lead to bearing seizure and belt noise or slippage. Peugeot implemented a revised tensioner assembly with improved bearing lubrication from late 1998 to enhance long-term reliability.

Peugeot Engine
Compliance Note:

Production years 1996–2001 meet Euro 2 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7890).

LFW-XU7JP Technical Specifications

The Peugeot LFW (XU7JP) is a 1,360 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for compact sedans and hatchbacks (1996-2001). It combines SOHC 8-valve architecture with multi-point fuel injection to deliver simple, economical performance. Designed to meet Euro 2 emissions standards, it prioritises cost-effective ownership within the regulatory framework of its era.

ParameterValueSource
Displacement1,360 cc
Fuel typePetrol
ConfigurationInline‑4, SOHC, 8‑valve
AspirationNaturally aspirated
Bore × stroke75.0 mm × 77.0 mm
Power output55 kW (75 PS) @ 5,800 rpm
Torque110 Nm @ 3,400 rpm
Fuel systemSAGEM MPFI
Emissions standardEuro 2
Compression ratio9.7:1
Cooling systemWater‑cooled
TurbochargerNone
Timing systemBelt-driven (requires periodic replacement)
Oil typeMineral or semi-synthetic 10W-40 (API SG/CD)
Dry weight105 kg
Practical Implications

The SOHC design provides economical, low-stress performance but necessitates strict adherence to the 80,000 km camshaft belt replacement interval to prevent engine damage. Using the specified 10W-40 oil is adequate for its design. The SAGEM injection system is robust but benefits from periodic injector cleaning. Vehicles produced before late 1998 should have the tensioner pulley upgraded to the revised specification per Peugeot Technical Note 97B04 to mitigate bearing seizure risks.

Data Verification Notes

Oil Specs: Requires API SG/CD 10W-40 specification (Peugeot Service Manual 97B). Semi-synthetic is acceptable.

Emissions: Euro 2 certification applies to all 1996–2001 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7890).

Power Ratings: Measured under EEC 80/1269 standards. Output is consistent across model applications (Peugeot Group PT-1999).

Primary Sources

Peugeot Technical Information System: Docs 97B, 97B04

VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/7890)

EEC Directive 80/1269 Power Measurement Standards

LFW-XU7JP Compatible Models

The Peugeot LFW (XU7JP) was used across Peugeot's 306 and 405 platforms with transverse and longitudinal mounting respectively. This engine received minimal platform-specific adaptations, ensuring high parts commonality. All technical specifications are consistent across applications as documented in OEM technical bulletins.

Make:
Peugeot
Years:
1996–2001
Models:
306
Variants:
1.4, 1.4i
View Source
Peugeot EPC Ref. 1360XU
Make:
Peugeot
Years:
1996–1997
Models:
405
Variants:
1.4, 1.4i
View Source
Peugeot EPC Ref. 1360XU
Identification Guidance

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 97B). The code "LFW" or "XU7JP" will be clearly visible. Critical differentiation from the similar XU5 engine: The LFW/XU7JP has a 1,360 cc displacement (75mm bore) versus the XU5's 1,580 cc (80mm bore). Engine management ECUs are specific to the LFW and are not interchangeable with other XU-family engines.

Timing Belt Tensioner Upgrade

Issue:

Early production LFW engines (pre-late 1998) used a timing belt tensioner pulley with a bearing prone to seizure due to inadequate lubrication, potentially leading to noise or belt slippage.

Evidence:

Peugeot Technical Note 97B04

Recommendation:

Replace with the revised tensioner assembly featuring improved bearing lubrication (Part No. 1567.C9) as per Peugeot Technical Note 97B04 during any belt service.
Timing Belt Criticality

Warning:

The LFW is an interference engine. Failure to replace the timing belt at the recommended interval (80,000 km) can result in bent valves and piston damage.

Evidence:

Peugeot Service Manual 97B

Common Reliability Issues - PEUGEOT LFW-XU7JP

The LFW's primary reliability risk is timing belt failure if neglected, with potential for internal damage. Peugeot service documentation mandates an 80,000 km replacement, while owner club data suggests many failures occur beyond 100,000 km. Infrequent oil changes can lead to sludge buildup, making adherence to the maintenance schedule critical.

Timing belt failure
Symptoms: Sudden engine stoppage, inability to restart, potential for severe internal damage (bent valves).
Cause: Rubber belt degradation over time and mileage; failure to replace at recommended intervals; tensioner pulley bearing seizure (early units).
Fix: Replace the timing belt and tensioner as a complete kit at or before 80,000 km using OEM-specified parts per service manual.
Ignition distributor failure
Symptoms: Engine misfires, especially in damp conditions; difficulty starting; loss of power; illuminated engine management light.
Cause: Ageing and wear of the mechanical ignition distributor, including the rotor arm, cap, and Hall effect sensor, leading to inconsistent spark timing.
Fix: Replace the faulty distributor cap, rotor arm, and/or the entire distributor assembly with new OEM parts. Ensure high-tension leads are in good condition.
Thermostat failure
Symptoms: Engine overheating, or conversely, taking excessively long to reach operating temperature; fluctuating temperature gauge.
Cause: Mechanical failure of the wax-element thermostat, causing it to stick closed (leading to overheating) or open (leading to slow warm-up and poor heater performance).
Fix: Replace the thermostat with a new OEM unit. Ensure the cooling system is properly bled of air after replacement.
Oil leaks from valve cover gasket
Symptoms: Oil smell, oil residue on the engine block and spark plug tubes, potential for oil dripping onto the exhaust manifold.
Cause: Ageing and hardening of the rubber valve cover gasket, leading to seepage, particularly at the corners and around the spark plug tubes.
Fix: Replace the valve cover gasket with a new OEM part. Clean mating surfaces thoroughly before reassembly and torque bolts to specification.
Research Basis

Analysis derived from Peugeot technical bulletins (1996-2001) and Peugeot Owner's Club failure statistics (2005-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.

Frequently Asked Questions about PEUGEOT LFW-XU7JP

Find answers to most commonly asked questions about PEUGEOT LFW-XU7JP.

Research Resources

Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references

About EngineCode.uk
Independent technical reference for engine identification and verification

Platform Overview

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.

Sourcing Policy

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.

Primary Sources & Documentation
Official OEM and government publications used for data verification

Primary Sources

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.

Official Documentation

Regulatory Compliance

Regulatory Context & Methodology
Framework and processes ensuring data accuracy and compliance

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.

Methodology

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

Legal, Privacy & Commercial Disclosure
Copyright, data privacy, and funding transparency

Copyright & Legal

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

Data Privacy

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

Trademarks

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.

Commercial Disclosure

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.

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“ .

All external links open in new tabs. Please verify current availability of resources.