1.6 HDI buying advice

[andy5]

I may be going to look at a car with this engine.

I get the impression it doesn't have such a rock solid reputation as the 2 litre versions, and may be more vulnerable if not being fastidiously looked after.

What are the potential problems, and what degree of scepticism is needed if looking at one which may not have full service history? Are there any reasonably easily spotted tell-tales to say avoid this one?

Thanks.

[GiveMeABreak]

Not all the 1.6 HDi engines are the same - there are different variants, but generally, the DV6TED4 is the engine (shared with Volvo, Ford and others) is the culprit. The 2.0 HDi engines are more reliable and don't suffer with the same problems. It's oil starvation due to sludge and carbon build up that is the killer for the turbo -

I did a post on it ages ago, but can't find it know - but have a read of this for the issues:

https://pmmonline.co.uk/technical/tackl ... di-engine/

Regular oil changes are key and a good quality oil.

[doctle]

Is it single or twin cam?

[andy5]

Don't know

[GiveMeABreak]

It depends on model and year.

The 16 valve DV6 engines were DOHC, but these changed in 2011 to the SOHC 8 valve (hence why I mentioned there are lots of variants) where the engine codes changed to reflect the varying power outputs and the types of turbo fitted (wastegate or variable).

So we would need to have a VIN or the reg number of any prospective vehicle if you want to know what makes it tick.

[Paul-R]

Generally speaking, and somewhat surprisingly, it's the 8-valve engines that are better than the 16-valve engines. A lot of things were re-engineered not least of which were the injector clamp bolts which were substantially beefed up to sort out the problem of the injectors coming loose.

[doctle]

Thats why I asked about the number of valves. I been reading about the single cam engines and what I have read would suggest they are a better engine. I know the 1.4 HDi engine is pretty good injector seals being the only awkward repair I've had to do. I think the single cam 1.6 is 2011 on???

[andy5]

Are all engines after a certain date 8v?

[GiveMeABreak]

All the DV6 (Blue HDi) engines from about 2011 are SOHC to comply with Euro 6 standards. Commonly named DV6FC.

[derbyshire1970]

in short dont unless it has clear evidence of regular oil changes , believe me if you can get the 2 litre version ( i now have)
i learnt from painfull and costly experience of the awful 1.6 hdi

[andy5]

Thanks everyone for the range of replies.

Two developments this morning - my Xantia has been looked at (taken to specialist at ahort notice a few days before Christmas, they were busy to start with), and it started perfectly the first 4 times, so the intermittent fault needs a bit more investigation.

And the C3 Picasso which I might have gone to see, sent a message on Christmas Eve, when's a good time to phone, no reply, phoned a couple of days ago, seemed to be speaking to kids playing, has already been sold during the Christmas period.

63 reg, so presumably the later engine, class N with miscellaneous fairly mild paint scratches, might have turned out a bargain, but also a risk, anyway I saw the ad too late ...

So this thread is just info for me and maybe others to mentally file away in case of future use.

I also just asked the Citroen specialist what he thought of the 1.6. Horrible, not as good as your 2 litre, fuel injection leaks, ends up with turbo damage, etc.

So fingers crossed for them getting some Lexia action on the only quarter million miles Xantia tomorrow, the idle musing on having a second car again may continue ...

[BiT82]

Hi all.
Sorry if I'm reviving an old thread, but I've been trying to do some reaserch on an engine of a C4 I've got my eye on purchasing for my better half.
I believe it to be the 1.6eHDI and the advert says its 16v.

From what I gather this is the 'potentially problematic engine?

I think I read somewhere, if I could provide the reg number, someone might be able to check it out and confirm the engine?

Thanks in advance
Brian

[GiveMeABreak]

We'll need the VIN Brian.

Please post your VIN in full without spaces - it will be automatically masked from public view after submitting your post & will only be visible to staff.

[BiT82]

Hi,
Really appreciate your quick response!
Unfortunately I don't have the VIN, I didnt know if any checks were possible from the VRM.

If I do go to look at the car, I'll be sure to get the VIN and come back to you.

Thanks again, its really appreciated

[BiT82]

Sorry to be a pain. Further to this, I've decided to a vehicle check.
It doesn't give me the VIN, but does give engine No, and engine code.
It also states this particular car is infact the 8v variant.
From your knowledge (and my piece of mind)
Is this generally regarded as a decent engine?
Obviously considering if it has been looked after.
Advert does state it has a full history.
Thanks