Problem with Stellantis' PureTech Engines: Everything You Need to Know
700,000 Spanish cars with 1.2 PureTech engines have a problem
This engine, found in numerous models from Peugeot, Citroën, Opel, and DS, has raised significant concerns due to serious mechanical failures.
If you own a vehicle equipped with this technology, it is crucial that you understand the risks, the possible solutions, and how you can assert your rights.
Table of Contents
What is the 1.2 PureTech engine?
The 1.2 PureTech engine is an innovative gasoline engine developed by the Stellantis Group, known for its efficiency and low emissions.
However, it has gained notoriety for recurring problems, particularly with the oil-bathed timing belt. This component, designed to minimize wear and improve performance, has proven to be susceptible to premature deterioration, which can lead to failures and breakdowns costing more than €9,000.
Which vehicles are affected?
Affected models from Peugeot, Citroën, Opel, Toyota, Jeep, Fiat, and DS
Engine Problems PureTech 1.2 affect models manufactured between 2012 and 2023. Some of the affected brands include:
- Citroën: C1, C3, C3 Aircross, C3 Picasso, C3 Cactus, C4, C4 X, C4 Cactus, C4 Picasso, Grand C4 Picasso, C4 Spacetourer, Grand C4 Spacetourer, C5 X, C5 Aircross, C Elysee, Berlingo
- Peugeot: 108, 208, 308, 408, 508, 2008, 3008, 5008, Partner, Rifter, 301
- Opel: Corsa, Astra, Crossland, Crossland X, Grandland, Mokka, Combo
- Toyota: Proace, Proace City, Proace City Verso
- DS: DS 3, DS 3 Crossback, DS 4, DS 4 Crossback, DS 7, DS 7 Crossback
- Jeep: Avenger
- Fiat: Doblo
Why is the PureTech engine having problems?
The manufacturing defect in STELLANTIS’s 1.2 PureTech engine is primarily due to the choice and design of the “wet” timing belt as the drive system (belt-in-oil). The technical and design factors contributing to this problem are detailed below:
1. Design of the Wet Timing Belt
The timing belt on the 1.2 PureTech engine is submerged in engine oil. This design is intended to reduce noise and friction, thereby improving engine efficiency. However, it presents several critical problems:
- Premature Wear: Constant exposure to oil and high engine temperatures accelerates wear on the rubber belt. As the belt deteriorates, it releases small rubber particles into the oil.
- Material Incompatibility: Chemical interactions between the belt’s rubber and additives in the oil or gasoline—which sometimes leaks into the oil pan—accelerate the belt’s wear and degradation, affecting its integrity and functionality.
2. Oil Contamination
Rubber particles shed by the belt contaminate the engine oil, which negatively affects its lubricating and cooling capabilities. Oil contamination causes several problems:
- Loss of Lubricating Effectiveness: Contaminated oil loses its ability to effectively lubricate the engine’s moving parts, increasing friction and wear.
- Component Clogging: Particles can clog the oil pump strainer and other lubrication passages, reducing oil flow and causing insufficient lubrication.
3. Impact on Performance and Safety
Oil contamination and premature belt wear affect vehicle safety and various aspects of performance:
- Engine Overheating: Additional friction and a lack of adequate lubrication can cause the engine to overheat, increasing the risk of catastrophic failure.
- Brake System Malfunctions: Contaminated brake fluid can affect the brake system, causing the brake pedal to feel stiff and compromising the vehicle’s safety.
- Wear on Internal Components: Contaminated oil acts as an abrasive, accelerating wear on critical components such as valves, piston rings, and the crankshaft.
4. Compliance with Emissions Regulations
The 1.2 PureTech engine was designed to meet strict European emissions standards (EURO 6), which drove the adoption of technologies such as the wet timing belt to improve efficiency. However, these technical decisions—aimed at complying with emissions regulations and reducing costs—resulted in compromises in the engine’s durability and reliability.
Consequences of PureTech Engine Failures
Below is a list of the most common problems associated with this engine, based on reports from AFESTEL members, experts, and the trade press.
1. Excessive Oil Consumption and Low Oil Pressure
ExcessiveOil Consumption: The 1.2 PureTech engine tends to consume excessive amounts of oil, forcing owners to top it off more frequently than usual.
Low Oil Pressure: Contamination of the oil with rubber particles from the timing belt can cause a drop in oil pressure, which affects engine lubrication and may trigger a warning on the dashboard due to low pressure.
MONTHLY COST: 150 €
2. Deterioration of the Timing Belt
The “wet” timing belt wears out prematurely due to its constant exposure to gasoline leaks and high engine temperatures. This can result in premature belt wear, the release of rubber particles into the engine oil and subsequent engine clogging, or belt breakage, which could lead to complete engine failure.
REPAIR COST: €1,500 – €7,500
3. Problems with the oil pump and the vacuum pump
Rubber particles shed by the belt can clog the oil pump and the vacuum pump, causing, on the one hand , blockages that lead to reduced oil flow and decreased vacuum pump efficiency, and, on the other hand , lubrication failures that can cause engine damage.
The vacuum pump may be damaged due to abrasion of the belt material; as a result, braking assistance could be reduced or lost, increasing the risk of an accident.
This risk has been documented in various European Union countries, as noted in these two EU safety alerts: Safety Gate EU Citroën and DS, Safety Gate EU Peugeot
COST: €1,500 – €4,500
4. Metallic Noise and Spontaneous Ignition
On the one hand, a metallic noise is produced in the engine due to internal wear and increased friction, as well as the uncontrolled ignition of the air-fuel mixture in the combustion chamber, which can cause vibrations, abnormal noises, and possible damage to the pistons and cylinders.
REPAIR COST: €2,000 – €4,500
5. Valve Leakage and Segmental Defect
Defective valves cause air and oil leaks, which affect engine performance. Furthermore, piston ring defects cause problems with the piston rings that affect compression and allow oil to enter the combustion chamber, resulting in smoke, pollution, and a fire hazard.
REPAIR COST: €1,500 – €4,000
6. Loss of Power and Jerks While Driving
The reduction in engine performance caused by the problems mentioned above affects the car’s acceleration and overall efficiency.
Some Afestel members have reported jerks while driving, especially at low speeds or when shifting gears.
COST: €700 – €1,400
7. Stiffness in the brake pedal
Contaminated oil can affect the braking system, making the pedal harder to press and compromising the vehicle’s safety.
COST: €1,200 – €3,000
8. Engine failure
A series of problems can lead to a complete engine failure, the repair of which may cost more than the vehicle is worth.
COST: €4,000 – €9,000
9. Premature wear of various engine components
Contaminated oil acts as an abrasive, accelerating wear on critical engine components, such as valves, piston rings, and the crankshaft.
COST: €1,200 – €3,000
Available solutions for affected homeowners
Repair Procedures and Warranties
If your vehicle is affected, your options include repairs that are partially covered by extended warranties or special service programs. It is essential to contact an authorized dealer to verify the solutions available in your case.
Class-Action Lawsuit Over PureTech Engine Issues
How can you join the class-action lawsuit?
More than 6,000 vehicle owners have joined forces to demand compensation. To participate, you must meet certain requirements, such as proving ownership of the vehicle and providing the necessary documentation. The steps are simple, and the process can be completed entirely online.
Benefits of Joining the Class Action Lawsuit
Joining a class-action lawsuit gives you access to compensation that can cover up to 50% of the car’s purchase price and the cost of repairs. It also increases pressure on the manufacturer to resolve the issues fairly.
Why should I complain?
Complaining is crucial to protect your rights as the owner of a STELLANTIS vehicle with a 1.2 PureTech engine. Recurring problems with the oil-bath belt can lead to serious mechanical failures and costly repairs. By joining the class action, you seek fair compensation and help pressure the company to take corrective action.
In addition, being part of this initiative allows you to join forces with more than 5,000 owners who have already joined, strengthening the extrajudicial claim and increasing the chances of success. The union of so many affected people not only makes the voice stronger, but also increases the pressure on STELLANTIS to solve the problem.
Don’t miss the opportunity to obtain the necessary repairs without incurring additional expenses. Claiming is not only a right, but also a way to ensure that your vehicle is working properly and to prevent future problems that may affect your safety and economy. Additionally, known problems can lead to a devaluation of your vehicle’s selling price, as the market becomes aware of the problem, affecting its value.
Finally, by participating in this collective action, you help set a precedent that can benefit other homeowners in the future. Joint action demonstrates that consumers have power when they organize and act together to protect their interests and demand justice.
About Puretech Legal
At PureTech Legal we are dedicated advocates for consumer rights in Spain. Inspired by successful class actions in France, we have set out to provide a voice and legal remedies to those affected by defects in 1.2 PureTech engines.
We collaborate exclusively with AFESTEL to represent the more than 4,000 associates of the platform. Join and claim with no upfront costs of any kind.
We have an expert legal team that combines technical and legal expertise, ensuring that your concerns are not only heard, but effectively addressed. We are committed to transparency, fairness and proactively seeking positive results for our clients. We connect individuals, build strong cases and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Why complain to us?
Free legal advice
Claiming with us guarantees you a simple and efficient process, backed by legal experts with extensive experience in class actions. Our team is dedicated to providing you with personalized advice to ensure you get the compensation you deserve and protect your rights as a consumer.
In addition, we handle all the necessary documentation and paperwork, freeing you from complications. With us, you will be supported in every step of the process, from registration to the resolution of your claim. Join us and together we will enforce your rights effectively and stress-free.
- Feasibility study totally free of charge
- If you don't win, you don't pay us
- We take care of everything and cover all legal expenses.
- Managed by experienced lawyers
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Join the Stellantis PureTech class-action lawsuit and claim what you’re owed!