1.6THP 2012 engine update question before buying

[citron]

Hi all, new member here that will hopefully get my hands on a DS3 soon.

Looking to get a DSport Plus 1.6 THP to bring over to Ireland as there are really only diesel models sold here. Sifting through autotrader, I noticed that in 2012 there seems to be an engine update as the bhp go from 150 to 153 while other figures stay the same.

Is there any difference in reliability or other that would make one much better to get over the other? Looking for something under 50k miles ideally but would love some opinions on what would be the best bet, budget is around 6k GBP but every penny off helps!

[Chris_Blue]

OOOooo. How long have you got. Ive had 2 THPs, a THP 150 June 2011, and a March 2013 THP 155
Predominantly they are mainly cosmetic changes like wheels and paint colour, rear lights, and inside

The THP engine did have a few small changes such as PCV inlet pipework and a few other bits I would have to remind myself of

The few extra horsepower was just a tweaked map on the ECU I believe

Do a bit of a search

£6k should get you a reasonable one - but look for and ask a few questions. IE Timing chain and tensioner replaced, High Pressure fuel Pump changed? Issues with hesitation on the engine

Less miles on the engine the better, and very early (2010) THPs had a few more issues than the later ones

Great, quick, fun little cars, and if you like modifying...……..

Welcome to the DS3 Club

[citron]

OOOooo. How long have you got. Ive had 2 THPs, a THP 150 June 2011, and a March 2013 THP 155
Predominantly they are mainly cosmetic changes like wheels and paint colour, rear lights, and inside

The THP engine did have a few small changes such as PCV inlet pipework and a few other bits I would have to remind myself of

.............

Thank you very much Chris for such a comprehensive answer! I looked into it more and there doesn't seem to be much difference in the reliability of the pre and post revision cars. Definitely looking to get the DSport Plus trim for the extra city package and arm rest, although I would prefer the non leather seats...

Regarding the timing chain and pressure fuel pump change, is that something that should be replaced even if on below 50k miles? As I will be coming over from Ireland, I would love to get an independent mechanic to have a look over the car before purchasing it. Perhaps even have 3 lined up in a close location incase something comes up on inspection.

Definitely would be looking to mod a little, start of with some plastidipping of the chrome grills and see where things go from then!

Overall you seem happy with the 1.6 THP and the car in general, Ive only ever driven the lower powered diesel and liked the car itself (apart from the diesel engine) so think the THP will be a huge step-up and bang on the price limit.

[Chris_Blue]

^ ^ Another change that comes to mind after mid 2011 is that you cant use the OBD port (In the glovebox) to remap the ECU- has to be done on a bench. Anti tamper software was introduced

Yes- loved the THPs, but they can be temperamental sometimes, unless well looked after.
The HPFP (High pressure fuel pump) is the same as used in the Turbo Mini's, and are a bit like a chocolate Teapot. Mine went about 22k miles and had it replaced on warranty. Citroen could quote as high as £800 supply and fit. Then the injectors aren't that great, but not so much cost.
The earlier the car, the more likely the timing chain tensioner will have issues. Mine never went on either THP's but a few did. Listen (From a COLD engine) when you start up, how much ticking you can hear after a few minutes. Might be the tensioner cranking up and taking the slack from the timing chain. Not great place to be

They are fabulous little cars mind, and even better when tuned up, sports Cat and performance air filter.
Buying a THP is as much a hobby, as just pure "owning a car"

Course- you get a good one- you may have no problems at all
My advice- buy from a dealer- minimum 3 month warranty, or do what I did when I bought my diesel DS3 last year- Warrantywise for 12 months

[citron]

The anti tamper on the ECU isn't the worst of things for me as coming from a 95bhp hatch the THP will be more than plenty (for at least a while)!

Definitely will keep an eye out on those things when inspecting and try to get some sort of warranty. Will be going through a dealer regardless for peace of mind and to have some alter actives on hand on the day as I'll be flying over from Ireland.

Thanks a lot for the help hopefully all this brexit stuff won't put a spanner in the works of getting the car exported here

[Chris_Blue]

did you get one in the end Citron?