Today, our automotive spare parts technical expert, Michel Metral, answers questions about the PureTech engine. This engine was named ‘Engine of the Year’ in 2014, 2015 and 2016 for its design, fuel efficiency and ability to meet environmental requirements without compromising performance, thanks to regular maintenance.     What is the PureTech engine?   Our expert: ‘The PureTech 1.0 and 1.2 (1L / 1L2) engine is a 3-cylinder petrol engine equipped with a timing belt. It was developed to reduce CO₂ emissions while maintaining an excellent balance between fuel consumption and performance.’     There are two versions of the PureTech engine:   Atmospheric version   This is an internal combustion engine with a displacement of 1.0 L or 1.2 L, without any supercharging system. The piston generates a vacuum which, when the intake valves open, draws in air to fill the cylinder. It has a simple and efficient design.     Turbo version   This is a 1.2-litre engine that uses a key component: the turbocharger. Air is no longer sucked into the cylinder, but is compressed by the turbo, which fills the cylinder with air. This model has a power output of 68 to 155 horsepower, depending on the version.     Why has the PureTech engine made such an impact?   Our expert: Faced with the gradual tightening of Euro 5 and Euro 6d standards, manufacturers had to completely rethink the architecture of petrol engines.   It was in this context that the PureTech engine was born, a compact 3-cylinder petrol engine designed to reduce CO₂ emissions, limit internal friction and improve fuel efficiency.

But like any optimised technology, it requires a detailed understanding of its specific features.   What are the technical advantages of the PureTech engine?   Our expert: The PureTech engine offers great driving comfort, even when vehicles are running at low revs. Compared to other equivalent engines, it stands out for its low fuel consumption and reduced emissions of around 25%.   The systematic integration of Start & Stop also contributes to reducing emissions in urban traffic. However, this technical optimisation also involves certain mechanical constraints.   What are the points to watch out for with the PureTech engine?   Our expert: The PureTech engine is sensitive to three key factors:   Start & Stop   Start & Stop technology is featured on all vehicles equipped with the PureTech engine. This technology reduces CO₂ emissions in urban areas, but it places additional constraints on engine oil and lubrication cycles.   Frequent engine stops and restarts promote fuel dilution in the oil. The presence of fuel in the oil alters its composition and therefore causes deterioration of the timing belt, in particular a change in its width. The residues produced in this way can clog the oil pump strainer, which will disrupt its circulation.   To prevent this damage, it is important to follow the recommended oil change intervals, use engine oil that complies with the recommendations, and check the condition of the timing belt. (Additional information below)   There is a specific gauge that can be used to check for any swelling of the belt.     The fuel used   As this is a petrol engine, SP98 petrol is the preferred choice.   Due to its rarity and price, consumers are turning more to SP95E10 or E85 (to be avoided).   However, caution is advised, as the ethanol in SP95E10 is very aggressive and, when diluted in oil, will accelerate its degradation, requiring increased vigilance in terms of maintenance.     Engine oil   It is essential to use an approved oil. Since March 2025, Stellantis has required 5W30 FPW9.5535/03 standard oil for PureTech engines to ensure adequate and long-lasting lubrication. It is more viscous and allows for better adaptation in use. But that's not all: an engine oil change is required every year or every 15,000 km (compared to 30,000 km previously).     When should the timing belt be replaced? Our expert: Recommendations have changed in recent years: Previously, it was recommended that the timing belt be replaced every 175,000 km or every 10 years.   However, to ensure the reliability and performance of the vehicle, Stellantis now requires the timing belt to be replaced every 100,000 kilometres or every 6 years.   This change is intended to prevent premature deterioration due to wear and tear.