A scrapyard worker reveals the ‘worst engine in the world’: a famous model that breaks down from the inside
In the automotive world, some surprises are not always pleasant, as demonstrated by a worker from a junkyard who revealed what he considers the ‘worst engine in the world’. It is a widely known model, whose problem lies in an internal failure that causes its deterioration silently. This discovery has raised alarms among many vehicle owners, especially those who have this engine in their cars. With his experience in mechanics and a critical eye, this worker exposed the design issues that affect the reliability and durability of the engine as soon as it can be thought to be in perfect condition.
In the automotive world, not all engines are the same, and some can be real headaches. A junkyard worker has drawn attention by revealing what he considers the “worst engine in the world,” a famous engine that unfortunately breaks down from the inside due to a design flaw. This article will investigate the reasons behind these failures and how new technologies are impacting the field of automotive mechanics.
The phenomenon of mechanics on social media
The rise of social media has not only touched on the personal sphere but has also reached the world of automotive repair. Nowadays, it is common to find mechanics using platforms like TikTok to share their discoveries and advice. One of these mechanics is Bernat Escolano, known as @bernideldesguace, who has become a motor influencer thanks to his revelations.
The case of the Citroën C3 Aircross
Recently, Bernat Escolano surprised his followers by showing the state of a Citroën C3 Aircross in a video that quickly went viral. In this video, it can be seen how the vehicle, despite not having suffered accidents, presents an engine in poor condition with only 76,379 kilometers driven. The situation led the mechanic to assert that the model is equipped with what he calls the “worst engine in the world.”
The problem with the PureTech engine
The Citroën C3 Aircross is equipped with the PureTech engine, a gasoline engine launched to comply with Euro 5 and Euro 6 emissions regulations. However, despite appearing to be a suitable solution for regulations, it has proven to be problematic. The main failure lies in the timing belt, which begins to break down and mix its remnants with the engine oil, causing catastrophic failures.
Impact on reliability and performance
Even though users respect the maintenance intervals recommended by the brands, PureTech engines have shown significant durability issues. The consequences of their use include costly breakdowns associated with timing belt failure, which causes significant damage to the vehicle and, in many cases, leads to its inevitable trip to the junkyard.
Stellantis initiatives to remedy
In the face of criticism and recurring problems, Stellantis, the automotive conglomerate that includes brands like Citroën, Peugeot, Opel, and DS, has begun to take action. In January, the group announced that it would cover interventions performed between 2022 and 2024, provided certain conditions regarding official maintenance are followed. This initiative aims to restore confidence in the reliability of these engines.
New trends in the automotive sector
It is not just the PureTech engine that has proven to be a headache for users. With the continuous evolution of the sector, manufacturers are exploring novel technologies to improve the performance and sustainability of vehicles. From impressive engines like those of the 2026 Volkswagen T-Roc (discover more here), to General Motors’ entry into the F1 World Championship (more information here), the automotive industry is in constant change.
Final Reflections on the Problematic Engine
The account of the junkyard worker regarding the engine of the Citroën C3 Aircross reveals a disturbing scenario in the automotive world. Located in the junkyard, the worker points out that this famous model from the PureTech engine, introduced by the now-defunct Groupe PSA, has been labeled as the “worst engine in the world” due to its tendency to break down internally. The descriptions provided point to inherent design problems that affect the long-term reliability and durability of the engine. This issue is particularly relevant given that many vehicles, including brands like Citroën, DS, Opel, Peugeot, and even Jeep, due to business mergers, are equipped with this type of engine.
The origin of the defect is primarily associated with the timing belt of the engine, which over time begins to disintegrate and mix with the oil, eventually leading to complete engine failure. Despite complying with Euro 5 and Euro 6 emissions regulations, these engines have disappointed due to the high costs associated with fixing such significant failures, exacerbated by their faulty design. This has drawn the attention not only of users but also of industry influencers.
Fortunately, Stellantis, as heirs of these models through mergers, has recognized the problem and plans to take responsibility for the repairs in an attempt to remedy the endemic failure of these engines. This decision covers interventions that will be made within a specific period, provided that owners have followed the official maintenance plan. It is a step that not only reflects the responsibility of the automotive group but also provides some relief to affected owners.
Thus, while mechanics continue to reveal and warn about these issues, it is clear that the industry is in a constant process of learning and adaptation. Examples like that of the user @bernideldesguace allow us to see not only the current challenges but also the possible solutions that are being shaped for the future of the automotive world.
