Two cars of the same model may have different engines. That’s why looking only at the license plate or the model year can lead you to the wrong conclusion.
If you want to find out whether your car has a PureTech engine, you need to check three pieces of information: the engine, the date of manufacture, and the VIN. The last step is the one that can confirm whether there are any recalls that apply to your vehicle.
Step 1: Check whether your car is equipped with a 1.2 PureTech engine
PureTech refers to a family of gasoline engines. Diesel engines in the same group use designations such as BlueHDi. The official technical specifications clearly distinguish between the two engine types.
Brands and models that use it
The previous-generation 1.0 and 1.2 PureTech engines are found in Peugeot, Citroën, DS, and Opel/Vauxhall vehicles covered by Stellantis’ support policies.
It is not advisable to identify a problematic engine based solely on the model. The same model line may have been sold with different engine configurations.
How to Find This Information on the Vehicle Specifications Sheet and the Vehicle Registration Certificate
Look for these fields:
- Q1: Displacement.
- Q2: Power.
- Q.3: Fuel.
- E: chassis number or VIN.
The Spanish vehicle registration certificate uses these official codes.
A 1.2 PureTech typically has a displacement of approximately 1,199 cm³ and runs on gasoline. The name “PureTech” does not necessarily have to appear explicitly in all documents.
Gas or Diesel? The Difference Between PureTech and BlueHDi
If you’re wondering whether PureTech engines are diesel or gasoline, the answer is clear: PureTech refers to gasoline.
BlueHDi refers to diesel engines. For example, the official specifications distinguish between a 1,199 cm³ PureTech 1.2 and BlueHDi diesel engines.
Step 2: Check if your version and year are affected
Not all PureTech models pose the same risk.
Stellantis maintains a special warranty for earlier generations of the PureTech 1.0 and 1.2 engines regarding excessive oil consumption and premature timing belt failure under certain conditions.
Model years and engine options affected by the defect
The published terms and conditions for compensation have included:
- 1.2 Naturally aspirated PureTech engines manufactured between June 2012 and June 2022 due to belt-related issues.
- 1.0 and 1.2 PureTech turbo models manufactured between April 2014 and June 2022 due to that same issue.
- Certain 1.2 models are affected by abnormal oil consumption.
That’s why, when discussing affected 1.2 PureTech engines, it’s important to check the specific model, not just the model year.
Identification by Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
The most reliable way to identify a PureTech engine by chassis number is to use the manufacturer’s official diagnostic tool.
The VIN consists of 17 characters and appears in the vehicle’s documentation. You can enter it on official websites to check for active recalls.
Step 3: Recognize the symptoms of the 1.2 PureTech engine
The main officially recognized problems are abnormal oil consumption and premature belt wear.
Noises and Witnesses in the Painting
An oil pressure warning light or an engine warning requires immediate attention.
A new noise alone doesn’t identify the problem either. You need a professional diagnosis.
Abnormal oil consumption
One of the most notable issues with the 1.2 PureTech engine is having to top off the oil more frequently than normal.
Keep invoices and records of each replacement or repair.
Loss of power and jerking
Jerking or a loss of power can have many causes. These symptoms alone are not enough to confirm a PureTech malfunction.
What to Do If You Notice Symptoms
If a serious oil pressure warning appears, pull over to a safe location.
Don’t keep driving just to see if it goes away.
Request a diagnostic check and keep all the repair shop documentation.
Your car is affected: repair and claim options
Stellantis offers an extended warranty for certain generations of the PureTech 1.0 and 1.2 engines for up to 10 years or 180,000 kilometers, subject to maintenance and diagnostic conditions.
There is also a platform for certain claims for compensation related to oil or belt repairs.
Check your case
To find out if you can file a claim for a PureTech engine, gather your VIN, maintenance invoices, diagnostic reports, and repair records.
Combining these documents allows us to verify your case much more accurately than a simple list of models.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know exactly what kind of engine my car has?
Check the engine displacement, fuel type, and VIN. If you have any doubts, verify the chassis number with the manufacturer or a repair shop.
Is the PureTech a gas or diesel engine?
PureTech is gasoline. Diesel engines use other names, such as BlueHDi.
Can I still drive if I have symptoms?
It depends on the symptom. If you see a serious oil warning or notice abnormal operation, pull over and seek professional assistance.