Which PureTech Engines Have Problems: A Guide by Generation and Model Year

Under the hood of a newly purchased car may lie a manufacturing defect that could destroy the entire engine block within a few years. The internal code known as the PSA EB 800 engine or EB family hides a troubled mechanical history that worries thousands of drivers.

If you need to find out which PureTech engines are prone to problems, it’s a good idea to look at how these issues are distributed based on the engine’s architecture and date of manufacture.

The PSA “EB” Engine Family: From the EB2 to the EB2ADTS

The key to this three-cylinder engine lies in the evolution of its internal specifications within the gasoline lineup.

EB2 / EB2DT: The Problematic First Generation

Launched in 2014, this initial phase included both naturally aspirated and turbocharged variants. It was the first to reveal a critical weakness caused by internal degradation.

EB2ADT and EB2ADTS: What Has Changed

Subsequent model years updated the emissions management system to comply with stricter anti-pollution regulations. Despite adjustments to the electronics and filters, the internal layout design did not prevent the underlying problems.

Which versions of the 1.2 PureTech are problematic?

Knowing which PureTech engines have the highest failure rates helps in understanding the cause of the problem.

82 CV, 100 CV, 110 CV, and 130 CV: Differences

Both the 82 CV model and the 100 CV, 110 CV, and 130 CV turbo versions share the same basic structural flaw. The more powerful models suffer from accelerated wear due to the higher turbo pressure.

The Role of the Oil-Immersed Timing Belt

The real culprit is the belt that is submerged directly in the oil. Gasoline breaks down the rubber, releasing debris that clogs the lubrication system and damages the engine.

Which model years are the PureTech engines that are failing from?

When looking at the model years of the PureTech engines that are causing problems, the critical period spans from 2014 to 2023. During that decade, hundreds of thousands of cars with PureTech engines affected by the same manufacturing defect were sold.

Does the new chain-driven PureTech solve the problem?

The latest hybrid models replace the belt with a metal chain to improve reliability.

What Does Stellantis Promise with the “Gen 3” Engine?

This third generation eliminates the oil-bath belt to prevent the buildup of particles in the circuit.

Why does switching to a chain not resolve the previous problem?

Even though the new units are equipped with a chain, models manufactured between 2014 and 2023 remain susceptible to manufacturing defects and repairs costing more than €7,000.

Which cars are equipped with each PureTech engine (Peugeot, Citroën, Opel, DS…)

To find out which models and brands are affected by the PureTech engine defect, check the complete list of compact cars and SUVs sold between 2014 and 2023. The list of cars equipped with PureTech engines includes brands such as Citroën, Peugeot, Opel, and DS.

Buying a Used PureTech: Which Ones to Avoid

The used car market reflects this design flaw with significant drops in value.

How to Find Out What Engine It Has Before Buying

Check the vehicle’s technical specifications and verify the date of first registration next to the engine code[cite: 1].

Warning Signs at the ITV/Historical Records

Excessive oil consumption or frequent bills for lubrication pump cleaning are signs of an imminent failure.

I already have a PureTech with this issue: what are my options?

If you own a car with this engine, you are entitled to claim reimbursement for repair costs or compensation for the loss in value. Through a Stellantis PureTech class-action lawsuit, you can seek fair compensation for the damages you have suffered.

Frequently Asked Questions