The Peugeot RFV (XU10J4R) is a 1,998 cc, inline‑four petrol engine produced between 1996 and 2000. It features a cast-iron block, aluminum cylinder head, and a twin-cam (DOHC) 16-valve configuration with multi-point fuel injection. This engine delivered 121 kW (165 PS) and 200 Nm of torque, offering a blend of performance and refinement for its era.
Fitted primarily to the 406 Coupe and high-spec 406 sedans, the RFV was engineered for spirited driving and smooth power delivery. Emissions compliance for its production period was managed through a catalytic converter and electronic engine management, allowing it to meet Euro 2 standards across all markets.
A documented concern for this engine is wear in the timing belt tensioner and idler pulleys, which can lead to belt failure if not inspected during routine service. This is noted in Peugeot service documentation for the XU engine family. The belt drives the water pump, making its replacement a critical maintenance item as per Peugeot workshop manuals.
All production years (1996–2000) meet Euro 2 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9876).
The Peugeot RFV (XU10J4R) is a 1,998 cc inline‑four petrol engine engineered for performance-oriented sedans and coupes (1996-2000). It combines DOHC 16-valve architecture with multi-point fuel injection to deliver responsive power and a broad torque curve. Designed to meet Euro 2 standards, it prioritizes driving dynamics while maintaining emissions compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,998 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 86.0 mm × 86.0 mm | |
| Power output | 121 kW (165 PS) | |
| Torque | 200 Nm @ 4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi-point fuel injection (Bosch Motronic) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 2 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.4:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Belt-driven | |
| Oil type | ACEA A3/B3 (e.g., SAE 10W‑40) | |
| Dry weight | 158 kg |
The DOHC 16-valve design provides a free-revving character but demands strict 60,000 km timing belt replacement intervals to prevent catastrophic interference engine damage. ACEA A3/B3 oil is recommended for optimal engine protection. The timing belt also drives the water pump; replacing both components simultaneously during a belt service is standard OEM procedure to avoid future labor costs. The Bosch Motronic system is generally robust but requires high-quality fuel to prevent injector clogging.
Oil Specs: Requires ACEA A3/B3 specification oil (Peugeot Owner's Manual). Mineral or semi-synthetic 10W-40 commonly used.
Emissions: Euro 2 certification applies to all models (1996-2000) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9876).
Power Ratings: Measured under EEC 80/1269 standards. Output is consistent across applications (Peugeot TIS Doc. XU-101).
Peugeot Technical Information System (TIS): Docs XU-101, XU-102, XU-103
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/9876)
EEC Directive 80/1269/EEC - Engine Power Measurement
The Peugeot RFV (XU10J4R) was used exclusively in Peugeot's 406 platform with longitudinal mounting. This engine received no major platform-specific adaptations or facelift revisions affecting core compatibility during its production run. All applications are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on a flat pad on the cylinder block, typically near the gearbox flange or on the front face of the block (Peugeot TIS XU-105). The code will read "XU10J4R" or "RFV". Visually, it is identifiable by its aluminum cylinder head with "16V" casting, twin camshafts, and the Bosch Motronic ECU box. Differentiate from the lower-powered XU10J2U (8V) by the 16-valve head and higher power output. Service parts are consistent across all 406 applications.
The RFV's primary reliability risk is timing belt failure due to missed service intervals, which causes catastrophic engine damage. Peugeot service schedules mandate replacement every 60,000 km, while owner club data suggests a correlation between neglected belts and engine seizure. The engine's performance nature makes adherence to this single interval critical.
Analysis derived from Peugeot technical bulletins (1996-2000) and aggregated owner club failure reports. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about PEUGEOT RFV-XU10J4R.
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.
