1.2 PureTech — Citroën, Peugeot and Vauxhall
1.2 PureTech Wet Belt Replacement
One engine, three badges. The 1.2 PureTech wet belt is the best-known example of this fault in the UK.
The fault
What's actually going wrong
The 1.2 PureTech three-cylinder petrol engine is shared across Citroën, Peugeot and Vauxhall models, so the same wet belt fault appears under three different badges. The belt runs in oil and drives the oil pump. As it ages the coating breaks up and the fragments collect in the sump, where they block the oil pickup. Because this engine was fitted to so many small cars, it is the fault we are asked about most.
Once the pickup blocks on a PureTech, oil pressure drops and the engine can be destroyed within a very short distance of driving. Replacing the belt at the right interval is the cheapest job on this page; replacing the engine is the most expensive outcome on the whole site.
Warning signs
Oil pressure or oil level warning
Frequently the first symptom owners notice, often alongside higher-than-normal oil consumption.
Rattle from the timing end
A dry-sounding rattle at start-up or on the overrun as the belt and tensioner wear.
Rubber debris in the oil
Visible flakes in the oil filler neck are a direct sign the belt is breaking down.
Engine management light
Camshaft or crankshaft correlation codes stored because the belt has stretched.
How we work
The process
Condition check
We look at the oil, the breather and the belt before quoting, and tell you straight if the engine has already suffered.
Belt kit fitted
Belt, tensioner and disturbed seals replaced together. Parts specification: [CONFIRM WITH OWNER: OEM or aftermarket parts policy].
Oil service and test
Sump and pickup cleaned where required, fresh oil and filter, then a run-up and road test.
from £400
Get a fixed price for your 1.2 PureTech — Citroën, Peugeot and Vauxhall
Tell us your registration and symptoms — we'll confirm the price before you book the car in.