Citroen C5 2001 - 2008 - used, experience, breakdowns

Citroen C5

The French have always been good at making comfortable cars, and the Citroen C5 is no exception. The Citroen C5 is comfortable to drive, but only for drivers without sports aspirations. Citroen can be bought cheaply, but it often breaks down.

Citroen has a huge reputation for comfort, thanks to the HYDROPNEUMATIC suspension, which has been used in its large models for decades.

The Citroen C5 stays true to Citroen’s unique hydraulic suspension, the latest incarnation being the ‘Hydractive 3’. One of the new benefits is the automatic height adjustment - driving depending on the speed of the vehicle and the road surface, so that at speeds over 68 km / h on a good road, the car descends 15 mm on the front and rear 11 mm of the Citroen C5. On the other hand, if you come across a bad road, the Citroen C5 goes at a speed of less than 44 km / h, the height of the vehicle is automatically raised by 13 mm. A further advantage of the Caravan version is the trunk switch that allows the driver to lower the rear of the Citroen C5 for easier loading into the trunk.

Competitive pricing is the basis for the success of the Citroen C5, which is even more the case with used specimens. Technically, the C5 is on average better than many other French cars. Unfortunately, the C5 has many shortcomings, mainly related to quality.

The Citroen C5 was initially criticized for being too expressionless. The front has rounded lights. The rear uses D.-shaped lights. After that, nothing differentiates the first-generation Citroen C5 from a bunch of other cars. Its silhouette is slim but lacking in stylish accessories, it guarantees the owner discretion. 2004. Citroen on C5 does facelifting. The headlights and taillights take on a more modern shape. Modeled in the form similar to the letter L. At this time, there were also changes in equipment and engines.

COMFORT - Citroen C5

Citroen C5

Extremely spacious and well muted passenger space creates a very comfortable atmosphere, even if the finish is not at the highest level. There is plenty of room for five adults in the cab of the Citroen C5. No luggage issues, because the cargo space is a 455/1310 liters compact or 565/1660 liters station wagon. The trunk is the right shape with a great load sill, so you won't get distorted while loading things.

The Citroen C5 is a very comfortable and large car. It is important that if you do not know the car well, before you buy a test drive, not everyone likes the HYDROPNEUMATIC suspension, the Citroen C5 only moves differently than other cars. Due to its size, the Citroen C5 is not ideal in the city (parking), but on the highway, it is stable. Soft and comfortable to sit on and low noise gives a sense of pure luxury.

Another road cruiser from France. The Citroen C5 has comfort and the trick is that it has no classic dampers or classic suspension but a gas suspension system that makes you ride on clouds. You will simply glide along the road, since the isolation of outside sounds is also great. This suspension system has its drawbacks too, so it will scare you, say, when the car is leaning into curves when driving a little harder. This is not to say that it is unstable, it is simply a guild of perfect comfort that a car can provide.

ENGINE - Citroen C5

Citroen C5

The Citroen C5 engine range started at 1,8 16V at 85 kW, two-liter also continued with sixteen valves and 100 kW output, complete with a unit of the same volume, but with the HPI designation, it has direct fuel injection into the cylinders and 3 kW more power. There is also a larger petrol six-cylinder three-cylinder and 152 kW engine. There are also diesels, the weakest two-liter HDi common rail delivers from 80kw to 100kw, a larger 2,2 liter engine with 98kw to 130kw and a particulate filter. After the restailing, the 1.6 HDI with 80 kW was added.

The manual transmission has five gears, the automatic transmission had four, but it also had manual selection. The six-speed gearbox came in combination with the engine 2.2 HDI since 2004.

Citroen C5 with gasoline engines on the market has significantly less than diesel. The basic model four-cylinder 1.8 16V has driving dynamics well below average, but for less demanding drivers it will be sufficient. Engines often suffer from increased engine oil consumption. Urban fuel consumption is over ten liters on the quiet highway, falling below 8 l / 100 km.

The highest performance recommendation for the Citroen C5 in terms of performance is the 2.0 16v 136hp petrol engine, which was replaced after a restyling of 2.0 143hp. The engines are combined with a manual or automatic transmission and provide a good compromise between performance and combustion. 10.8 and 9.1 seconds from 0 to 100 km / h top speed around 200 km / h, city consumption of 11 l, 6-7 liters of fuel on the highway, is a pretty good result.

Horsepower enthusiasts should opt for the 3hp 6-liter V207.

The best-selling units are diesel HDi common rail. Citroen C5 equipped with two-liter 80 kW power, the lower variant is not on offer. The engine offers enough low-power output. Stronger 2.2 The HDI is 98. It pulls very well and has enough power at higher speeds. However, beware of overheating the cylinder head gasket, check the bottom of the valve cover for emulsion. Similarly, look at the expansion vessel, that no oil is present. Both engines often have problems with the crankshaft pulley, floating flywheel and flowmeter.

The smallest 1,6 HDI diesel and 110hp, it fights well with the Citroen C5. The average consumption is about 4,5 liters of Euro diesel.

The recommendation is diesel engineers, a well-known HDI PSA group that has excelled in all their models.

Citroen C5 - Model History:
• Fall 2000 - premiere of the Citroen C5 (5d sedan), 2.0 16V engine (136 hp), 2.0 16V HPI (petrol direct injection, 140 hp), 3.0 V6 (207 hp), 2.0 HDi (turbo common rail, 110 hp) ), 2.2 HDi (turbo common rail 136 hp);
• spring 2001 - station wagon version, new 1.8 16V engine (116 hp);
• Autumn 2002 - new 2.0 HDI engine (turbo common rail, 90 hp), abandonment of the 2.0 16V HPI;
• Fall 2004 - model restyling (new headlamps and taillights, modified grille, optional equipment), new engine 1.6 HDi (turbo, common rail, 110 hp) and 2.0 HDi (turbo, common rail 136 hp);
• 2006 - new 2.2 HDI engine (turbo common rail 170 hp), increased engine power 1.8 16V (125 hp).

FAULTS - Citroen C5

The powertrains in the Citroen C5 aren't particularly fast, but they do have their whims. Gasoline engines must account for the blown cylinder head gasket and leaks from the cooling system. Rubber pipes and around the refrigerator should be carefully inspected. The V6 engine is not for long term heat loads. This can end up even bursting one of the heads. When you buy this version it is important to check the efficiency of the engine while driving.
C5 turbo diezels have a problem with the tire on the pulley, the elements formed by the tire are separated and must be replaced. They require a thorough examination. Operation of an HDI engine can be problematic, it does not tolerate poor quality fuel. DPF versions require the use of special fluid in the combustion system, which increases the cost. Also, after a period, replacement is required DPF filter.

The Citroen C5 did not perform well on the reliability test. As many as 50% of all failures are electronic in nature, and things go awry. Pay most attention to the dashboard, radio and air conditioning. When you look at it well, look at the rest of the electronics on the car. Hydro-pneumatic suspension alone does not require additional maintenance, although it has happened that the hydraulic pump has failed or the system itself decides to adjust the height of the car. The clutch knows faster that it will suffer at 2,0 diesels, repair is not cheap, so check this part properly when purchasing.

A heavy load for the Citroen C5, whose launch was accompanied by a multitude of problems, especially electronic ones, but also finishing. The mechanical part is the most spared. Cars from the first year of production were either called for service or repaired during regular service. But the number of changes and improvements are significant. However, not all electronic problems or clutter in the first stage of production are eliminated. For safe shopping, go to C5 since summer 2003.

Poor engine performance is often caused by stuck EGR valve from dirt.

Engine 1.8 16V defective lambda probe.

A common problem with early 2.0 gasoline engines is that the engine runs erratically and does not respond during moderate driving. The problem was solved by reprogramming the ECU engine.

2.0 16v engine. On the Citroen C5 manufactured until May 2001, engine dormancy was disturbed. Caused by the EGR valve pipe problem, the pipe friction to the surrounding mechanical parts. This item was corrected in a factory campaign from early 2002, a pipe lining replaced and a pipe replaced.

Gasoline engine failure coils especially for the Citroen C5 3.0 V6.

Hydropneumatic Problems with Citroen C5 3.0 V6, High Engine Weight.

With Citroen C5s fitted with diesel engines and manufactured before model rebuilds, there are problems with frequent clogging DPF filters, which require a complete change to about 4 years.

On an HDI diesel engine, there is often a failure of the clutch thrust bearing and the floating flywheel, indicating very unstable engine idle and speed changes. Occurs at high miles (150 + km).

1.6 HDI engine. The Citroen C5 manufactured by spring 2005 had some problems with the injection. Challenged by electronic control. ECU reprogramming solution.

1.6HDI diesel has regular problems with the turbocharger due to insufficient lubrication. For complete elimination of faults it is necessary to change the turbocharger, oil pump and all hydraulic connections with the engine and turbocharger.

Flywheel. On the Citroen C5 1.6 HDI 110, clicking sounds are often mistakenly attributed to the engine mount or front axle.

In 1.6 HDi diesel engines manufactured by early 2005, there were frequent problems with unreliable ignition, to solve the problem, it is necessary to reprogram the ECU of the engine.

Nei Citroen C5 equipped with 1.6 HDi diesel engine have problems with broken plastic rods from the engine oil level gauge, which then end up in the oil tank.

2.0 and 2.2 HDI engines. On the Citroen C5, manufactured until September 2001, engine or car power will not drop. Caused by a malfunction of the fuel pump (copper oxidation of the inner part) contained in the tank. This item was corrected in a factory campaign from early 2002, pump replaced.

Engine 2.0 HPI. On the Citroen C5 manufactured until May 2001, malfunctioning, lower power and poor performance. Caused by a failure of the internal seal of the injection pump. This problem was corrected in the factory campaign from the beginning of 2002, the pump was replaced, if necessary.

2.0 HDI engine. Engine Citroen C5 manufactured until June 2001 disturbed. Caused by the wheel EGR valve. Friction caused between EGR valve pipe and bonnet. This item was corrected in a factory campaign from early 2002, a new bonnet and a new pipe tube.

With the Citroen C5 equipped with 2.2 HDi diesel engines, there is a problem with the timing belt, this may be due to water leakage in the area of ​​the timing belt, the belt breaks and causes engine damage.

With the 2.2 HDI diesel, it often comes on with a warning light indicating an issue with the exhaust system or DPF filter, despite the fact that there were no issues.

The 2,2 HDI diesel engine has common problems with the engine oil sensor and water penetration in the air filter and the consequent MAF sensor problem.

2.2 HDI engine. On the Citroen C5 manufactured until April 2001, there is a risk of chain breaking connecting the two camshafts. May cause engine failure. In the summer of 2002, the systematic replacement of this small chain.

2.2 HDI engine. On the Citroen C5 manufactured until June 2001, possible leakage of diesel on the hose on the fuel return line. Caused by friction with the surrounding mechanical parts. This was corrected in a campaign from early 2002, revised pipe cladding, pipe replaced if necessary.

Common problems with automatic transmissions are rough and difficult to move the lever. The problem is largely due to electronics problems. The factory was subsequently informed that it was necessary to travel 60 kilometers before changing the oil.

Citroen C5 equipped with automatic transmissions, manufactured by mid-2004, problems with gear shifting solved reprogramming.

Due to the wrong choice of material for mounting the rear brake caliper, the latter are often corrosion and brake problems.

Handbrake. On the Citroen C5 manufactured until January 2002, there is a risk of breaking the parking brake handle.

Hydro-pneumatic suspension. The Citroen C5 manufactured until October 2001 was at risk of failure of the electronic control suspension. Caused by the entry of water into a computer that manages the suspension. This item has been corrected in a campaign since the beginning of 2002.

Hydro-pneumatic suspension. On the Citroen C5 produced until April 2001, a slight leak on the hydraulic system is possible, leaking through the "return" hoses from the front suspension cylinder. Caused by improper bowel attachment. This item was corrected in the campaign from the beginning of 2002 by changing the clamp (metal instead of plastic) on the front suspension pipe.

ESP system. Restored Citroen C5 manufactured until December 2004. Risk of disruption of ESP system. Caused by poor signal transmission giving the angle of the steering wheel on the electronics board. Problem solved in March 2005 action.

Citroen C5 intensive rear tire wear and tear.

Citroen C5 produced until mid-2002, possible noise and vibration from under the rear wheels, especially on the right side. To solve this problem, additional metal weights and additional foam were installed under the seat, but they were not efficient enough. Complete elimination of the problem follows the revised models, when a new type of rear shock absorbers are installed.

If your catalytic converter crashes, you will probably have a problem with the transmission cables at some point, because the catalytic converter overheats and becomes more difficult to move through the bucket.

If you notice corrosion on the back of the pot without worry, it is not a replacement, you just need to remove the tin formwork, below is a safe pot.

The entire electric system on the Citroen C5 is a network full of mysteries. Problems with driver's side power windows, seat heating, radiator fan. However, electronics are especially tricky. Problems with trip computer, electronic lock control and central locking.

The first Citroen C5 had a problem with the ignition immobilizer lock.

Central locking. On the Citroen C5 manufactured until October 2001, central locking failure. Caused by electronic problems. This item was corrected in a campaign beginning in 2002, electronics reprogrammed.

Rear lights (Break). Pauses taken until July 2001, risk of light failure. Caused by the supply of water to the beds, which causes oxidation of the electrical panel. This item was corrected in a business refreshment campaign beginning in 2002, to replace electrical installations, if necessary, and to drill holes for rainwater drainage.

Most at some point have a problem with the dual-zone automatic climate, as the teeth on the flap are closed, which closes and opens and one side heats and the other cools. The service engineers change the engine climate and put in a new one with longer gears and if the old one is completely correct. People have solved this problem on their own with ordinary silicone, but the problem is access and you need to know how to get that motorcycle. Some even take down the entire board, but there is no need for that.

Citroen C5 manufactured before the restailing may have problems due to poor metallic paint quality.

Alu wheels due to corrosion are difficult to remove when replacing. For ease of removal, it is recommended that you use grease before each wheel is removed.

The first Citroen C5 has poor front seat fixation, so sometimes it is necessary to retighten the seat rails.

Usually loud mechanisms for lowering and raising windows.

Driver's seat. On the Citroen C5 manufactured until June 2002, the height-adjustable driver's seat cannot maintain its height adjustment; the driver sometimes has to adjust the height while driving. The problem is the foam of the seat that falls under the weight of the body and touches the height adjustment lever. Solve with a smaller handle and facing outwards to prevent accidental contact between the handle and the seat.

Citroen C5 recall:

23.01.2002. Possible failure of the ABS system due to problems with the front wheel bearings.
16.08.2002 Problem with ABS module - overheating.
08.16.2002. Parking brake lever replacement.
03.10.2003. A problem with the quality of the aluminum rims that can crack.
07.06.2004. Engine Computer Program Problems.
25.04.2005/XNUMX/XNUMX Diesel fuel leaks on the return line.
23.02.2006. Possible unforeseen fuel injection into the engine, with diesel models.
05.02.2008/2.0/XNUMX For vehicles with XNUMX diesel engines, the wrong brake pump is installed.
06.05.2008. A hard brake pedal may occur due to a vacuum pump failure.
15.05.2008. A potential problem with stopping the engine during braking.
28.07.2008 Possibility of fuel leakage in return near suction branch.

Mladen

Hi there, I am Mladen and I am an auto enthusiast. I started this blog years ago to help like minded people share information about latest cars, car servicing ideas, used car info, exotic cars, and auto technology. You will find helpful articles and videos on a wide variety of cars - Audi, Mercedes, Toyota, Porsche, Volvo, BMW and much more. Ping us if you have anything cool to share on latest cars or on how to make older cars more efficient, or just want to say hi!