The Peugeot RFH (EW10A) is a 1,997 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2001 and 2008. It features double overhead camshafts (DOHC), 16 valves, and sequential multi-point fuel injection. In standard form, it delivered 100 kW (136 PS) and 190 Nm of torque, providing a balance of performance and refinement for its era.
Fitted to models such as the 307, 407, and Partner Tepee, the RFH engine was engineered for smooth, reliable daily driving and competent motorway cruising. Emissions compliance was achieved through a catalytic converter and electronic engine management, meeting Euro 3 standards for its primary production run.
One documented concern is premature wear of the exhaust camshaft lobes, particularly in higher-mileage examples, as noted in Peugeot Technical Note 6715 A. This issue is often linked to specific lubrication characteristics under sustained high-RPM operation. Later production runs incorporated revised camshaft metallurgy to address the concern.
Production years 2001–2008 meet Euro 3 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Peugeot RFH (EW10A) is a 1,997 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for mid‑size sedans and MPVs (2001-2008). It combines DOHC 16-valve architecture with sequential multi-point injection to deliver smooth, linear power delivery. Designed to meet Euro 3 standards, it prioritizes refinement and everyday drivability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,997 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally Aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 85.0 mm × 88.0 mm | |
| Power output | 100 kW (136 PS) @ 6,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 190 Nm @ 4,100 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Sequential multi-point injection (SAGEM) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 3 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.4:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven | |
| Oil type | Peugeot 9736.10 (SAE 5W‑40) | |
| Dry weight | 135 kg |
The naturally aspirated design offers predictable, linear power ideal for relaxed cruising but requires adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals to protect the valvetrain, particularly the exhaust camshaft. Peugeot 9736.10 (5W-40) oil is critical for its specific anti-wear additives. Sustained high-RPM operation should be minimized in early production engines to reduce cam lobe wear risk. The engine is robust with proper maintenance; timing chains are generally reliable for the engine's lifespan. Emissions system is simple, relying on the catalytic converter, which requires no special maintenance beyond standard exhaust checks.
Oil Specs: Requires Peugeot 9736.10 specification (Peugeot Service Manual 6715). Equivalent to ACEA A3/B4.
Emissions: Euro 3 certification applies to all 2001–2008 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678). No market-specific variations.
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. Output is consistent across model applications (Peugeot Group PT-2005).
Peugeot Technical Information System: Docs 6715, 6715 A
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
ISO 1585: Road vehicles — Engine test code — Net power
The Peugeot RFH (EW10A) was used across Peugeot's PF2/PF3 platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-minor ECU mapping for the 407 versus the 307-but no major facelift revisions affected core compatibility. 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 gearbox flange (Peugeot TIS 6715). The 8th VIN digit typically corresponds to the engine code ('F' for RFH). Visually, it features a black plastic intake manifold and a prominent SAGEM-branded engine management module on the right side. Critical differentiation from the later EW10J4: RFH has a single-piece exhaust manifold, while EW10J4 uses a two-piece design. Service parts for camshafts are specific to production date ranges due to the metallurgical update (Peugeot Technical Note 6715 A).
The RFH's primary reliability risk is exhaust camshaft lobe wear on early builds, with elevated incidence in engines subjected to frequent high-RPM use. Peugeot internal service data indicated a measurable rate of camshaft replacement in pre-2004 engines before 150,000 km. Adherence to correct oil specification and avoiding prolonged high-RPM operation are critical mitigation factors.
Analysis derived from Peugeot technical bulletins (2003-2007) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2010-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about PEUGEOT RFH-EW10A.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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