The Peugeot RFN (EW10J4) is a 1,997 cc, inline‑four petrol engine produced between 2001 and 2010. It features a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) design with 16 valves and multi‑point fuel injection, delivering 100 kW (136 PS) and 190 Nm of torque. Its cast‑iron block and aluminium cylinder head construction provide a balance of durability and thermal efficiency for spirited driving.
Fitted to performance-oriented models like the 307 GTI and 406 Coupe, the RFN engine was engineered for responsive mid-range power and refined highway cruising. Emissions compliance was achieved through electronic throttle control and a three‑way catalytic converter, allowing it to meet Euro 3 standards, with some later variants achieving Euro 4 depending on the specific model and market.
One documented concern is premature failure of the dephaser pulley (variable valve timing actuator), which can cause timing rattles and loss of performance. This issue, highlighted in Peugeot Service Bulletin 6015 A 02, is often linked to oil quality and extended service intervals. Peugeot addressed this by revising the pulley design and updating oil specifications in later production runs.
Production years 2001–2005 meet Euro 3 standards; 2006–2010 models may have Euro 4 compliance depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5679).
The Peugeot RFN (EW10J4) is a 1,997 cc inline‑four petrol engine engineered for sporty compact and mid-size sedans (2001-2010). It combines DOHC 16-valve architecture with a variable intake system to deliver strong mid-range torque and linear power delivery. Designed to meet Euro 3 (and some market-specific Euro 4) standards, it balances performance with 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 | Multi-point fuel injection (Bosch ME7.4.4) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 3 (pre‑2006); Euro 4 depending on market | |
| Compression ratio | 10.4:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Belt-driven with dephaser pulley (requires replacement at 120,000 km) | |
| Oil type | PSA B71 2290 (SAE 5W‑40) | |
| Dry weight | 125 kg |
The variable intake system provides a broad, flat torque curve ideal for overtaking but requires strict adherence to 120,000 km timing belt and dephaser pulley replacement intervals to prevent catastrophic failure. PSA B71 2290 (5W-40) oil is critical for protecting the dephaser mechanism, as noted in SIB 6015 A 02. Engines built before 2005 are most susceptible to pulley failure; post-2005 units feature a revised, more robust design. The Bosch ME7.4.4 ECU is sensitive to ignition coil quality, and using non-OEM coils can lead to misfires and rough running.
Oil Specs: Requires PSA B71 2290 specification (Peugeot Owner's Manual). Equivalent to ACEA A3/B4.
Emissions: Euro 3 certification applies to pre-2006 models only (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5679). Some 2006-2010 models meet Euro 4 depending on market.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output consistent across applications with correct fuel (RON 95) (Peugeot TIS Doc. M23456).
Peugeot Technical Information System (TIS): Docs M23456, SIB 6015 A 02
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5679)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Peugeot RFN (EW10J4) was used across Peugeot's performance platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-different exhaust manifolds for the 307 GTI and 406 Coupe-and from 2006 the facelifted 407 received minor ECU updates for emissions, creating minor software interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front face of the cylinder block, near the gearbox flange (Peugeot TIS M23456). The 8th VIN digit often corresponds to the engine type ('R' for RFN in many 307/407 models). Pre-2005 engines have a silver dephaser pulley; post-2005 units have a black or dark grey pulley indicating the revised design. Critical differentiation from the non-variable timing EW10J2: RFN (EW10J4) has a visible dephaser unit on the intake camshaft sprocket. Service parts, particularly timing kits and dephaser pulleys, require production date verification for compatibility (Peugeot SIB 6015 A 02).
The RFN's primary reliability risk is dephaser pulley failure on early builds, with elevated incidence in high-mileage, oil-starved conditions. Internal PSA quality reports indicated a notable failure rate for engines produced before 2005, while UK DVSA data shows timing system neglect as a leading cause of major engine failure. Infrequent oil changes and low-quality oil exacerbate wear, making adherence to service schedules critical.
Analysis derived from Peugeot technical bulletins (2003-2008) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2010-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about PEUGEOT RFN-EW10J4.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.
DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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