The 1.2 PureTech three-cylinder petrol engine is fitted to a lot of Peugeots, Citroëns, DSs and Vauxhalls. Like Ford's EcoBoost, it has a timing belt that runs in the engine oil, and when that belt starts to break up it can starve the engine of oil. Russ replaces PureTech wet belts and cleans out the oil system properly while he's in there.
Which cars have it?
- Peugeot: 208, 2008, 308, 3008, 5008
- Citroën: C3, C4, Berlingo
- DS: DS 3 Crossback
- Vauxhall: Corsa (the 2019-on Corsa F), Mokka, Crossland, Grandland
That's not a complete list, as the engine is used in other models too. Newer versions, mainly the 48V hybrids from around 2023–24, switched to a timing chain, but some non-hybrid cars sold since then still have the belt. The model year alone won't tell you. Give Russ your registration and he'll check.
What is a wet belt?
Instead of running dry outside the engine like a normal cambelt, a wet belt runs inside the engine, bathed in oil. It's quieter and has less friction, but the rubber relies on the oil being clean and correct.
Why they wear out
The belt's rubber can break down, faster with overdue oil changes, the wrong oil, or lots of short trips where the engine never fully warms up and fuel gets into the oil. It sheds pieces into the oil. Those gather in the sump and block the oil pump's pickup strainer, so oil pressure drops. On these engines, debris can also block the oil feed to the brake vacuum pump, so you lose brake servo assistance and the pedal goes hard.
Warning signs
- Oil pressure or "engine oil pressure fault – stop the vehicle" warning
- Engine management light
- Hard brake pedal or less braking assistance than usual
- Rattling or ticking, especially from cold
- Loss of power
- Higher oil use than usual, or very dark, dirty oil between changes
Use the right oil
Use oil that meets the manufacturer's specification for your engine. It's printed in the handbook and service schedule. The wrong oil, or oil left in too long, speeds up belt wear. We check the spec for your car at every service.
When should it be changed?
The manufacturer has shortened its original recommended interval for many of these engines, and it varies by engine and build date. Check your service schedule, or ask Russ. He can look up your engine and look at the history. The belt can also be checked for wear during a service, so if you're unsure, book a service and ask us to look.
What the job involves
- New wet belt, tensioner and idler, fitted with the correct locking tools
- Sump off: oil pump pickup strainer inspected and cleaned, and belt debris cleared out
- Checking the oilways that debris tends to block, such as the brake vacuum pump feed
- Fresh oil to the correct spec and a new oil filter
- Fault codes checked and a test drive before it goes back
If we find damage beyond the belt once it's apart, we'll stop and call you before doing anything else. You'll get a quote before we start.
All work carried out with warranty on parts and labour.
Warranty extension
Stellantis (the group behind Peugeot, Citroën, DS and Vauxhall) has extended warranty cover for earlier PureTech 1.0 and 1.2 engines, from March 2024, for up to 10 years under certain conditions, such as service history. If your car might qualify, check with a franchised dealer before paying for a repair. We're happy to tell you what we find either way.
Got a Ford with the 1.0 EcoBoost? See Ford EcoBoost wet belt replacement.
RPM Autocare is an independent garage and is not affiliated with or approved by Stellantis, Peugeot, Citroën, DS or Vauxhall.
Questions we get asked
Does my car have a PureTech wet belt?
If it's a 1.2 petrol Peugeot, Citroën, DS or Vauxhall from roughly 2014 onwards, it may well do. Call Russ with your registration to be sure.
My brake pedal has gone hard. Is that related?
It can be. Debris from a failing belt can block the oil feed to the brake vacuum pump. Don't drive it. Call us.
How much does it cost?
It depends on the engine and what we find in the sump. Call Russ for a quote. No VAT to add.
How soon can you do it?
We can normally get you booked in within 2 days. If the oil light has come on, don't drive it. Call Russ and we'll talk through the best way to get it to us.
Book your PureTech belt change
Call Russ for a quote. We can normally get you booked in within 2 days.