If you own a Peugeot, Citroën, DS or Vauxhall fitted with a 1.0 or 1.2 PureTech petrol engine, you may have heard growing concerns about wet timing belts. These engines are widely used, efficient and smooth, but they do have one well-documented weak point — the wet belt system.
In this article, we’ll explain:
Unlike a traditional timing belt, which runs externally and stays dry, PureTech engines use a wet timing belt. This belt runs inside the engine and is lubricated by engine oil.
The theory behind the design is sound:
However, in real-world driving conditions, this system has proven to be far more sensitive to oil quality and servicing history than originally expected.
Over time, the rubber compound of the wet belt can degrade when exposed to engine oil. This degradation is accelerated by:
As the belt deteriorates, small particles of rubber break away and circulate within the engine oil.
When belt debris enters the oil system, it can cause multiple serious issues, including:
1. Blocked oil pickup strainer
Rubber debris can clog the oil pickup in the sump, restricting oil flow to the engine.
2. Oil pressure loss
Restricted oil flow can cause low oil pressure, triggering warning lights or, in some cases, no warning at all.
3. Accelerated engine wear
Lack of proper lubrication can damage:
4. Complete engine failure
In severe cases, the engine can suffer catastrophic failure, often requiring a full engine replacement.
When PureTech engines were first introduced, the manufacturer quoted long service intervals for the wet belt. However, real-world experience has shown that many belts do not last anywhere near these intervals.
We regularly see belts showing significant deterioration at:
In some cases, belts fail even earlier.
This is why many specialists now recommend preventative replacement well before the original schedule.
Unfortunately, there are often very few early warning signs.
Possible symptoms can include:
However, many engines suffer serious damage without any prior symptoms, making proactive replacement crucial.
A PureTech wet belt replacement is a labour-intensive job, but it is far cheaper than dealing with the consequences of failure.
Preventative replacement:
✔ Protects the engine
✔ Restores correct oil flow
✔ Removes belt debris from the sump
✔ Prevents catastrophic failure
✔ Preserves the value of your vehicle
Ignoring the issue can result in repair bills running into the thousands of pounds.
A correct wet belt replacement involves more than just changing the belt.
At St Albans Car Clinic, we always:
This step is critical and is often overlooked by non-specialist garages.
If your vehicle meets any of the following criteria, it’s strongly recommended:
Even if no symptoms are present, inspection or replacement could prevent a major failure.
PureTech wet belts require specialist tools, knowledge and procedures. Choosing a garage without the correct experience can lead to incorrect timing, oil leaks or repeat failures.
At St Albans Car Clinic, we specialise in PureTech wet belt replacements and carry out this repair regularly, using:
If you’re concerned about your PureTech engine, don’t wait for a warning light or breakdown.
📞 Call St Albans Car Clinic on 01727 867747 to discuss your vehicle or book an inspection.
Replacing your PureTech wet belt at the right time isn’t just maintenance — it’s engine protection.
