The Chrysler B156 is a 1,557 cc, inline‑four petrol engine produced between 1985 and 1987. It featured a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) design and two valves per cylinder, delivering modest outputs for its era. Equipped with a carburettor for fuel delivery, it produced approximately 59 kW (80 PS) and 122 Nm of torque, prioritising reliability and cost‑effective manufacturing for entry — level models.
Fitted primarily to the European‑spec Chrysler Horizon and Dodge Om…
Production years 1985–1987 meet Euro 1 standards as per the applicable regulations of the time (EU Directive 70/220/EEC).
The Chrysler B156 is a 1,557 cc inline‑four petrol engine engineered for compact hatchbacks (1985-1987). It combines a simple SOHC valvetrain with carburetted fuel delivery to deliver adequate power for urban driving. Designed to meet Euro 1 emissions standards, it prioritised mechanical simplicity and owner affordability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 1,557 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol | |
Configuration | Inline‑4, SOHC, 8‑valve | |
Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
Bore × stroke | 76.0 mm × 86.0 mm | |
Power output | 59 kW (80 PS) | |
Torque | 122 Nm @ 3,500 rpm | |
Fuel system | Single-barrel carburettor | |
Emissions standard | Euro 1 | |
Compression ratio | 9.0:1 | |
Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
Turbocharger | None | |
Timing system | Belt-driven (requires periodic replacement) | |
Oil type | SAE 10W‑40 (mineral or semi-synthetic) | |
Dry weight | 115 kg |
The Chrysler B156 was used across Chrysler's Horizon platform with transverse mounting. This engine received no major platform-specific adaptations during its short production run. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Engine Finders UK Ltd, which operates EngineCode.uk, can pass your enquiry to engine suppliers in the UK. The service is for vehicles in the United Kingdom, with UK delivery or fitting. This is a commercially connected service, and sending an enquiry does not confirm diagnosis or compatibility.
Diagnostic reminder: If a technician has recommended replacing the engine, you can send an enquiry to engine suppliers in the UK. Confirm the diagnosis first: an engine-code record does not diagnose a fault.
The B156's primary reliability risk is timing belt system failure, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or poorly maintained examples. Chrysler service data indicates a significant number of failures occurring beyond the 80,000 km service interval, while owner reports frequently cite ignition system issues as a secondary concern. Neglecting the distributor drive gear update and extended service intervals make catastrophic engine damage or sudden stalling likely.
Analysis derived from Chrysler technical bulletins (1985-1987) and owner workshop manual data. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
The most common questions about engine codes, what they mean, how to find them and how this database works
The B156 can be reliable if meticulously maintained, particularly regarding the timing belt and distributor drive gear. Its simple, robust design is a strength, but neglect, especially of the timing system and ignition components, leads to major failures. Regular servicing and using quality parts are key to longevity.
The most critical issue is timing belt tensioner failure, followed by distributor drive gear wear causing sudden stalling. Carburettor wear causing running problems and cooling system leaks (hoses, water pump) are also very common on high-mileage examples.
The B156 engine was used in the European-market Chrysler Horizon, as well as its North American counterparts, the Dodge Omni and Plymouth Horizon, from 1985 until 1987. It was typically the base engine option for these models.
Minor power gains are possible through carburettor tuning, a performance exhaust, or an aftermarket air filter. However, its SOHC, 8-valve design is a significant limitation. Major power increases require extensive, costly modifications that are generally not practical.
Fuel economy is good for its era. Expect around 8.0–9.0 L/100km (35–31 mpg UK) in combined driving. Highway cruising can yield closer to 6.5 L/100km (43 mpg UK), while city driving will be higher, around 10.0 L/100km (28 mpg UK).
Yes. The Chrysler B156 is an interference engine. If the timing belt breaks or jumps, the pistons will collide with the open valves, causing severe and expensive internal engine damage. This makes adhering to the timing belt service schedule absolutely critical.
Chrysler recommended a good quality SAE 10W-40 mineral or semi-synthetic oil for the B156. Using an oil that meets API SF/CC specifications or equivalent is important for protecting the older engine design and preventing sludge buildup.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
EngineCode.uk is operated by Engine Finders UK Ltd. It provides engine-reference information and an optional commercial enquiry service. It is not an official manufacturer website. Check the record's sources and confirm vehicle-specific details before relying on it for parts, repairs or replacement.
Our editorial standard prioritises relevant manufacturer documentation and official regulatory sources. The sources and verification status for a record should be checked alongside the data.
A statement is not verified merely because a source is listed. Where supporting evidence is missing or conflicting, the record should identify that limitation. Please report unsupported or inconsistent information.
Transparency in gaps
A missing or unverified value does not mean the manufacturer has withheld it. We distinguish information not yet verified, information not available to us, and information explicitly not disclosed by the source.
Regulatory Stability
EU regulations are referenced using CELEX identifiers for long-term stability.
EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.
DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
UK type-approval authority for automotive products.
Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
WLTP and RDE testing procedures for emissions certification.
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.
VCA Certification Portal
Type-approval guidance and documentation.
Records are subject to review and correction. Source links, dates and verification notes should be read with the technical information. Our Editorial and Sourcing Policy explains our standards and review process.
Found an error or missing source? Report a problem with this page. Include the field or statement concerned and a supporting source if available. You can also email corrections@enginecode.uk.
Copyright and permissions
Images and other material may be protected by copyright. Attribution does not by itself grant permission to reuse material. If you believe material on this site infringes your rights, contact copyrights@enginecode.uk with the page URL and details of your claim. We will review the material and take appropriate action.
Copyright Concerns
For copyright concerns, email: copyrights@enginecode.uk
Our Privacy Policy explains how Engine Finders UK Ltd uses information from visits, vehicle lookups, enquiries and messages. Our Cookie Policy explains cookies and similar technologies and how to change your choices.
For access, correction, or deletion requests, email: gdpr@enginecode.uk
Trademark Notice
All trademarks, logos, and engine codes are the property of their respective owners. Use on this site is strictly for reference and identification.
Ownership and commercial services
EngineCode.uk is owned and operated by Engine Finders UK Ltd. Alongside our reference content, we offer an optional replacement-engine enquiry service through Engine Finders and may identify relevant services provided by businesses connected with us. These commercial connections are disclosed. Using an enquiry service is not required to read our reference content.
Engine Finders UK Ltd operates this website. Our optional enquiry service has a commercial purpose. Our Ownership and Commercial Disclosure explains the relationship between the reference website and that service. Participating suppliers pay a fee or subscription to participate on the network and receive quote requests.
Use this record as a starting point for identification. Specifications and vehicle applications may contain errors or omissions. Confirm the exact engine variant and compatibility using vehicle-specific documentation and a qualified supplier or technician.
All external links open in new tabs. Please verify current availability of resources.