Engine Code

PEUGEOT XM7 engine (1989–1994) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

The Peugeot XM7 is a 2,975 cc, V6 naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1989 and 1994. It features a single overhead camshaft per bank (SOHC), 12 valves, and multi-point fuel injection. In standard form, it delivered 123 kW (167 PS) and 235 Nm of torque, engineered for smooth, effortless power delivery ideal for executive touring.

Fitted exclusively to the XM executive sedan and estate, the XM7 engine was designed for refined, quiet cruising and relaxed motorway performance. Emissions compliance was achieved through a three-way catalytic converter and basic electronic engine management, meeting Euro 1 standards for its entire production run.

One documented concern is premature failure of the distributor drive gear, which can cause ignition timing faults and engine misfires, as noted in Peugeot Technical Note 4301. This issue is often linked to material wear under sustained high-RPM operation. Later service parts incorporated a revised gear material to improve durability.

Peugeot Engine
Compliance Note:

Production years 1989–1994 meet Euro 1 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/3457).

XM7 Technical Specifications

The Peugeot XM7 is a 2,975 cc V6 naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for executive sedans (1989-1994). It combines SOHC 12-valve architecture with multi-point injection to deliver smooth, linear power. Designed to meet Euro 1 standards, it prioritizes refinement and low-stress reliability.

ParameterValueSource
Displacement2,975 cc
Fuel typePetrol
ConfigurationV6, SOHC, 12‑valve
AspirationNaturally Aspirated
Bore × stroke90.0 mm × 78.0 mm
Power output123 kW (167 PS) @ 5,500 rpm
Torque235 Nm @ 4,000 rpm
Fuel systemMulti-point injection (Bosch Motronic)
Emissions standardEuro 1
Compression ratio9.2:1
Cooling systemWater‑cooled
TurbochargerNone
Timing systemBelt-driven
Oil typePeugeot 9736.00 (SAE 10W‑40)
Dry weight165 kg
Practical Implications

The SOHC V6 design offers smooth, predictable power ideal for relaxed cruising but requires strict adherence to 60,000 km timing belt replacement intervals to prevent catastrophic engine damage. Peugeot 9736.00 (10W-40) oil is recommended. The distributor drive gear is prone to premature wear; inspect during major services. The engine is mechanically robust with proper maintenance; ignition components (distributor, HT leads) are common wear items. Emissions system is basic, relying on the catalytic converter.

Data Verification Notes

Oil Specs: Requires Peugeot 9736.00 specification (Peugeot Service Manual 4301). Equivalent to API SG/CD.

Emissions: Euro 1 certification applies to all 1989–1994 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/3457). No market-specific variations.

Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. Output is consistent across model applications (Peugeot Group PT-1992).

Primary Sources

Peugeot Technical Information System: Docs 4301

VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/3457)

ISO 1585: Road vehicles — Engine test code — Net power

XM7 Compatible Models

The Peugeot XM7 was used exclusively in Peugeot's XM platform with longitudinal mounting. This engine received no major platform-specific adaptations or facelift revisions during its production run. All technical specifications are governed by Peugeot documentation.

Make:
Peugeot
Years:
1989–1994
Models:
XM (Y3)
Variants:
3.0i
View Source
Peugeot EPC Ref. 1401.X0
Identification Guidance

Locate the engine code stamped on a flat boss on the front face of the cylinder block, near the gearbox flange (Peugeot TIS 4301). The 8th VIN digit typically corresponds to the engine code ('7' for XM7). Visually, it features a cast aluminum intake manifold and a centrally-mounted distributor on the front of the engine. Critical differentiation from the later ES9: XM7 has a 12-valve SOHC head and a distributor, while ES9 is 24-valve DOHC with coil packs. Service parts for the distributor drive gear are specific to post-1991 models due to the material update (Peugeot Technical Note 4301).

Distributor Gear Advisory

Issue:

The plastic/metal composite distributor drive gear is susceptible to premature wear, causing ignition timing faults and misfires.

Evidence:

Peugeot Technical Note 4301

Recommendation:

Inspect the distributor drive gear for wear during timing belt replacement. Replace with the updated OEM part if any signs of wear are present.
Timing Belt Criticality

Evidence:

Peugeot Service Manual 4301

Maintenance:

Failure to replace the timing belt at the specified 60,000 km interval will result in severe engine damage as it is an interference engine.

Verification:

Always verify the timing belt service history before purchasing a used XM with this engine.

Common Reliability Issues - PEUGEOT XM7

The XM7's primary reliability risk is distributor drive gear wear, with elevated incidence in higher-mileage or older examples. Peugeot internal service data indicated a common failure point, while owner reports frequently cite ignition faults. Sustained high-RPM operation accelerates wear, making proactive inspection and timely replacement critical.

Distributor drive gear wear
Symptoms: Engine misfire, especially under load, rough idle, difficulty starting, 'Check Engine' light with ignition timing codes.
Cause: Material wear or stripping of the teeth on the distributor drive gear, preventing accurate ignition timing signal transmission.
Fix: Replace the distributor drive gear with the updated OEM part; inspect and replace the distributor shaft and cap if necessary.
Timing belt failure
Symptoms: Engine suddenly stops running, will not restart, potential loud clattering noise on attempted start (if valves are bent).
Cause: Neglect of the 60,000 km replacement interval, leading to belt snapping or teeth shearing on an interference engine.
Fix: Replace the entire timing belt kit (belt, tensioner, idler pulleys) immediately. If the engine stopped suddenly, a cylinder head rebuild may be required.
Coolant leaks from water pump
Symptoms: Coolant puddles under the front of the engine, low coolant level warning, engine overheating.
Cause: Seal failure or bearing wear within the mechanical water pump, allowing coolant to leak from the weep hole or shaft.
Fix: Replace the water pump assembly; inspect and replace the coolant hoses and thermostat if aged; refill and bleed the cooling system.
Intake manifold gasket leaks
Symptoms: Rough idle, hesitation, vacuum leaks, 'Check Engine' light with lean mixture codes, hissing noise from engine bay.
Cause: Age-related hardening and shrinkage of the rubber intake manifold gaskets, allowing air to be drawn into the intake tract.
Fix: Replace the intake manifold gaskets with OEM parts; clean mating surfaces thoroughly; torque bolts to specification in the correct sequence.
Research Basis

Analysis derived from Peugeot technical bulletins (1990-1994) and aggregated owner workshop reports (2000-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.

Frequently Asked Questions about PEUGEOT XM7

Find answers to most commonly asked questions about PEUGEOT XM7.

Research Resources

Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references

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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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Last Updated: 16 August 2025

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