DIY Citroen C5 X7 rear suspension repair

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Front suspension repair (silent blocks) spare parts, installation and operation

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• Group: Beginner
• Posts: 3
• Member since 07 February 11
• City: almost Tula
• Gender: Male
• Auto: Citroen C5 2.7

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• Group: Sitrovod
• Posts: 121
• Registration Date: 12 July 08
• City: Zlatoust, Chelyabinsk region.
• Gender: Male
• Auto: C5 (X7) 2.0i AL4 Confort

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Post has been edited by VIZZOR: 22 April 2011 - 23:33

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• Group: Sitrovod
• Posts: 121
• Registration Date: 12 July 08
• City: Zlatoust, Chelyabinsk region.
• Gender: Male
• Auto: C5 (X7) 2.0i AL4 Confort

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• Group: Beginner
• Posts: 3
• Member since 07 February 11
• City: almost Tula
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• Auto: Citroen C5 2.7

Post has been editedek0209: 23 April 2011 - 10:35

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ps collective farms on 2.7 HDi is somehow strange: rolleyes: />

Post has been editedMayovets: 23 April 2011 - 14:39

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• Group: Beginner
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• Group: Sitrovod
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• Registration Date: 11 July 06
• City: Unweit Moskau
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• Auto: Citroen C5 (X7) 2.2 HDI, Citroen C5 II 1.8 L,

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• Group: Users
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Good day!
I have a Citroen C5X7 2009. Passed 75 thousand. I bought it a year ago from my hands and after the winter I watched a knock in the right front suspension. I went to diagnostics services and there they offered a replacement, then ball and upper and lower (12,14). Replaced. The knock remained. We saw that the hydraulic cylinder was leaking. Replaced. The knock remained. Last time they said for sure that the silent blocks are upper (11,13), which are paired. Replaced. The knock remained. Right now, apparently, we got to the real reason (he himself saw that it was destroyed) the silent block at the end of the lever (6). They could not find it before, since the lever was loaded on the lift, but they did not see it in the pit, since it is under protection.
By the way, many people write that the peculiarity of the C5 suspension is the rumble on the bumps, so on my right this rumble was manifested, however, very strongly. And when starting off and braking, so straight knock. Therefore, we thought at the beginning that they were ball-type.
Only when the third time did not work out, they began to look in other places
Here on the Internet I found only this message that they replaced the silent block with Pezhovsky.

I went to “my world” to see its kind, is it the same? And I think he is. In the attached file, I marked it with a red ring. On the Internet I found that the lever number is 407 for wads (Part of, 3521 J6 *, 3520 N6 *).
?? we have slightly different levers 3521S5 and 3521W2. Now I want to ask, is it this silent block for the lever (Part of, 3521 J6 *, 3520 N6 *) that fits our C5? Were there any difficulties in installation?

And then I just found analogs of our lever for 2300 -3500 rubles 3521S5 & x = 22 & y = 8
And I think is there any point in saving or did this replacement leave for a short time and gemmorno was installed? Is the “game” worth the candle?

Afraid they might miss? And then the suspension will be disassembled for the 4th time, each time they break something, then the lock on the wheel, then the gum of the seal for the liquid and the LDS liquid itself flows out. I don’t want to miss, if it doesn’t fit, for a complete disassembly and collection of the suspension I cry 2.5 thousand rubles each time.
And so, on the one hand, you can save 2-3 thousand rubles on the AF, but the installation and operation itself may go sideways. Of course, replacing this lever is easier than collecting and disassembling the entire suspension when replacing the upper silent and ball, but they can still take 1.5 thousand once more.

Have I found the “correct” silent block or are there nuances?

The hydropneumatic suspension has been a technical highlight of large Citroens since the legendary DS model debuted back in 1955. For more than half a century of history, this system has been repeatedly modernized and improved. On the Citroen C5, which appeared in the fall of 2000, the third generation of the suspension, Hydractive III, was installed, capable of changing the ground clearance in the range from 90 to 230 mm. It became structurally simpler and, accordingly, more durable than its predecessors, and the manufacturer gave it a five-year warranty or 200 thousand kilometers.However, more on that later.

The car was offered in a hatchback body that looks like a sedan and in the form of a practical, but more attractive station wagon. I must say that the Citroen C5 did not differ in its verified design - for its characteristic facial expression, domestic witches even called it a fish. The situation was partially corrected by restyling carried out at the end of 2004, when the front end and stern were seriously changed.

A used Citroen C5 can be found both in the minimum-sufficient level of equipment, and stuffed in full. The basic X version included ABS with brake force distribution along the axles, six airbags, electric front windows and heated mirrors, as well as air conditioning, stabilization system, cruise control and velor interior. The SX version additionally had a hydropneumatic suspension (with engines more powerful than 130 hp), electric rear windows, climate control, an on-board computer and fog lights. An extensive list of options was also offered.

The Citroen C5 was equipped with petrol engines: 4-cylinder 1.8 liters (116 hp) and 2.0 liters (136 and 140 hp), as well as a 3-liter V6 (207 hp). ... Turbodiesels were represented by "fours" with a volume of 2.0 liters (90 and 109 hp) and 2.2 liters (133 hp). The standard transmission is a 5-speed manual. With all units, except for the 90-horsepower turbodiesel, a 4-band "automatic" was offered. After restyling in 2005, the 2-liter engine acquired direct fuel injection and began to produce 143 hp. In the range of turbodiesels, units with a volume of 1.6 liters (110 hp) and 2.0 liters (138 hp) appeared, and the 2.2-liter unit was removed. The top V6 was already equipped with a 6-range automatic transmission, and the 6-speed "mechanics" was intended for a 138-horsepower turbodiesel.

The most popular engine for the Citroen C5 is a 2-liter petrol "four" (136 hp) with multipoint fuel injection. On the first cars, the engine had a cold start problem, but it was quickly resolved by reprogramming the engine control unit. Radiators do not withstand the reagents with which Russian roads are poured in abundance in winter. During operation, every two to three years or 40-60 thousand km, it is recommended to clean (1500-2000 rubles) the throttle valve and idle valve. Of the chronic malfunctions, we note the lower engine mount (3800 rubles) that fails by 70-90 thousand km. Around the same time, the crankshaft rear oil seal begins to leak. And after 100 thousand km you need to be ready to replace the oxygen sensor (4300 rubles). Under our conditions, about 150 thousand km were released to the catalyst. If there is no desire to spend 25,000 rubles. for a new part, you can contact the garage masters who carry out the operation to remove it with the firmware of the control unit. Ignition coils often fail (1680 rubles). To make them live longer, we recommend changing the candles in a preventive manner every 20-30 thousand km.

The 1.8-liter engine is similar in design to the 2-liter one, and they have common problems. Unless the base engine under the hood of used C5s is much less common. So is the V6. However, the flagship power unit is almost devoid of childhood illnesses - only it is inconvenient to change the candles of the right row. But the failure of various electronic sensors and ignition coils is not widespread. Quite often, turbo diesel Citroen C5 comes across on the market. After 150 thousand km, they can be depressed by the injection nozzles (15 860 rubles each) and the high-pressure fuel pump (repair from 35 000 rubles).

On used Citroen C5s with a manual transmission, up to 100 thousand km of run, you have to change the cables (1800 rubles each) of the gear shift drive due to the breakage of their plastic tips. By this time, when the clutch pedal is depressed, the release bearing usually begins to voice. It is better not to delay the replacement - otherwise you will have to face an early upgrade of the clutch. Moreover, the mechanism will need to be changed in assembly with a driven disk and a basket, and this is at least 10,000 rubles. The right wheel drive shaft bearing is also at risk.

The four-band "automatic" produced by the PSA Peugeot Citroen concern with the AL-4 index does not differ in high reliability. By 80-100 thousand km, as a rule, the valve body fails (from 15,000 rubles), the gearbox control unit malfunctions or becomes unusable. But the "iron" itself can last even up to 200 thousand km. Much more attractive in terms of durability are the 6-speed automatic transmissions ZF, which were installed on modifications with gasoline V6s. True, there are noticeably fewer such copies in the secondary market than cars with 2-liter engines, as well as turbodiesel versions that were equipped with Japanese Aisin transmissions. These boxes are also devoid of most of the sores of the French-made unit and are reputed to be quite reliable.

The spring suspension, which is basic for Citroen C5, will "ask to rest" the struts and stabilizer bushings after an average of 50 thousand km. Replacement - from 3000 rubles. Ball joints and silent blocks of the front levers (3500 rubles on both sides) nurture about 100 thousand km and even more - depending on the driving style. The wheel bearings also stand about the same, which, to the delight of the owners, change separately from the hub and cost only 2,500 rubles. In the rear suspension, you should pay attention to the trailing arms, which require attention after 70-90 thousand kilometers.

In the steering, after 60-80 thousand km of run, the steering rods and tips will be noted with knocks. Replacement of parts - 7000 rubles. And the rake itself costs an average of 35,000 rubles. True, she lives up to 200 thousand km.

The Hydractive III's suspension isn't nearly as problematic as it is commonly believed. Instead of springs and shock absorbers, it has hydraulic spheres and struts, respectively. They can withstand, as a rule, up to 150 thousand km. The spheres (there are five or six, depending on the configuration, on average 3000 rubles each) are a ball filled with special LDS synthetics and compressed nitrogen. It gradually evaporates through the membrane separating liquid and gas, and the suspension becomes very rigid. But it is impossible to drive even with one faulty sphere - then the bypass valves and other parts of Hydractive III quickly become unusable. Racks cost only 3500 rubles. The hydraulic pump (20,000 rubles) has its own electric motor and serves up to 200 thousand km.

The body of Citroen C5 with a durable galvanized coating and good paint is resistant to corrosion. True, chrome trim elements quickly give up to rust. On the first cars, the rear windows burst, which were later replaced with reinforced ones. The windshield (8900 rubles) does not differ in hardness, on which scratches appear after three to four years. In winter, it is easy to damage the power window mechanism - when the frozen glass is lowered, the plastic fasteners break. There are also problems with the electrician.

The Citroen C5 station wagon, which was traditionally called Break, appeared a few months later than the hatchback - its premiere took place in March 2001. With the same wheelbase, the rear overhang of the C5 Break is increased by 139 mm and the height by 49 mm. Accordingly, the curb weight also increased - by 49 kg. A notable feature of the station wagon is the huge crescent-shaped taillights that flank the tailgate, which is equipped with a power lock. Moreover, for loading small things, it is enough to raise only the glass - it opens separately from the tailgate. In technical terms, the station wagon completely repeats the hatchback. But the maximum boot volume of the C5 Break (with the rear seats folded down) reaches an impressive 1,660 liters, mainly due to the compact rear suspension.

French cars have always stood out for their extravagant, one might even say futuristic design. But this hardly applies to the Citroen C5. Its boring, washed-up fish appearance attracted few people. Probably, this was due to the fact that the development of the machine was carried out in record time. So we got an average-weighted look of a modern car by the standards of that time.The 2001 models have a sluggish, albeit original, front end with large headlight eyes, a weak-willed radiator grill and a modest emblem with a double chevron. In the back, the C5 also looked gaudy and resembled a Toyota Camry, which was also not a piece of design art. But the interior was initially very good and differs from the post-styling in the main by a different design of the dashboard. And the quality of materials and workmanship are at a quite decent level.

The first generation Citroen C5 debuted in 2001. In 2004, he went through a restyling. The most obvious differences are the shape of the front and rear lighting fixtures. During production, more than 720,000 copies were created.

The pre-styling and restyling versions of the Citroen C5 I participated in the Euro NCAP crash tests. In 2001, the French car earned 4 stars, and in 2004 - already five.

R4 1.8i / 115 hp (EW7 / 2001-2005)

R4 1.8i / 125 hp (EW7 / 2005-2008)

R4 2.0i / 136 hp (EW10 / 2001-2004)

R4 2.0 HPi / 136 hp (EW10 / 2001-2003)

R4 2.0i / 140 hp (EW10 / 2004-2008)

V6 3.0i / 207 hp (ES9 / 2001-2008)

R4 1.6 HDi FAP / 109 hp (DV 6 / 2004-2008)

R4 2.0 HDi / 90 HP (DW10 / 2002-2004)

R4 2.0 HDi / 109 hp (DW10 / 2001-2004)

R4 2.0 HDi FAP / 107 hp (DW10 / 2002-2004)

R4 2.0 HDi FAP / 136 hp (DW10 / 2004-2008)

R4 2.2 HDi FAP / 133 hp (DW12 / 2002-2005)

R4 2.2 HDi / 125 hp (DW12 / 2006-2008)

The smaller engines - the 1.8 petrol and 1.6 HDi diesel - lack traction at high speeds. This Citroen C5 hardly accelerates in 4th gear. Gasoline engines with a working volume of 2.0 liters and 3.0 liters behave much more confidently. But they are more expensive to maintain, especially the latter. A 3-liter unit with an automatic transmission at a quiet pace consumes about 12-13 liters per 100 km.

A common problem with gasoline units is not very durable ignition coils (5-7 thousand rubles apiece). In addition, oil leaks appear with age - more often from under the valve cover. It is worth noting that replacing the timing belt of a 3-liter V6 costs 20-30 thousand rubles (you have to disassemble a lot). The 2.0 HPI (Direct Injection) engine proved to be so unfortunate that it subsequently had to be abandoned.

Among diesel engines, the 2-liter has proven itself the best. It is technically simple, reliable and easy to repair. 2.2 HDi performed slightly worse. More modern 16-valve turbodiesels, which appeared after restyling, turned out to be very economical, but sensitive to fuel quality. After 200,000 km, replacement of the dual-mass flywheel, turbocharger and injectors is inevitable. In addition, diesel engines have malfunctions such as failure of the air flow meter, exhaust gas recirculation system and other components that are inexpensive to fix. However, the total cost of several of these repairs can be significant.

In 1.6 HDi, the oil should be changed more often, as the liners and the turbocharger wear out quickly. Another common malfunction is a stretched timing chain.

The prefix FAP in a diesel engine designation indicates a wet particulate filter that requires service. As a rule, its resource does not exceed 180-200 thousand km.

Transmission

Together with the engines, a 5-speed mechanics or a 4-speed automatic (AL4) was installed. For a 3-liter gasoline aspirated, instead of AL4, a 4-range automatic ZF 4HP20 was offered, and after restyling, the V6 was combined exclusively with a 6-speed automatic transmission from Aisin (AM6).

Restyled diesel versions began to be aggregated with 6-speed mechanics and AM6, except for the 133-horsepower 2.2 HDi FAP (2004-2005), which was offered with the ZF 4HP20. The basic version with 1.6 HDi was equipped with only a 5-speed manual transmission.

Now is the time to mention something that worries many Citroen C5 owners with a manual transmission. We are talking about the inaccurate operation of the gear selection mechanism. Unfortunately, the problem gets worse as mileage increases. It becomes more and more difficult to determine which gear is on. The mechanism will have to be replaced. The clutch serves over 200,000 km. The cost of a new set is about 7,000 rubles.

Among automatic transmissions, the Japanese Aisin and the German ZF enjoy a good reputation. Most of all criticism is caused by the French AL4. She begins to push strongly to 150-200 thousand km.In the best case, it will be possible to get off with the replacement of the solenoids, in the worst case, the valve body will also have to be replaced. Deeper repairs will be needed after 200-250 thousand km, for which you should stock up on the amount of 50-70 thousand rubles.

Even when 4 well-fed gentlemen with suitcases sit in the Citroen C5 (with the engine running), the car will, of course, sag at first, but after a while it will return to its normal position. Constant ground clearance, regardless of the load, is provided by the Hydroactive III hydropneumatic suspension - Citroen's own development. The hydropneumatic elements act as shock absorbers and coil springs.

The amount of ground clearance is regulated by two buttons on the center tunnel. The driver can choose from four levels: normal, low, dirt and high. That's not all. In the normal position, after exceeding the speed of 110 km / h, the front suspension sags by 15 mm and the rear by 11 mm. As soon as the speed drops below 90 km / h, the ground clearance returns to its original position. If the road is in bumps and potholes, then the car will automatically rise by 13 mm in front and behind (additional mode on restyled models).

The upgraded version with "Hydroactive III +" has a "Sport" button between the two mode control buttons. If you press it, the car will roll and sway less. But even in normal mode, body vibrations are small. In addition, the Hydroactive III + can automatically switch to sport mode, depending on the amount of acceleration or body roll.

Technically, Hydroactive III + features six spheres (balls) filled with nitrogen, while the regular version has four spheres. However, in both cases, the Citroen C5 is a comfortable car, without sacrificing stability and handling.

Notably, the hydropneumatic suspension and steering share the same LDS hydraulic fluid supply. However, each of the systems has its own pump.

Unfortunately, hydropneumatic suspension repairs are not cheap. Typical malfunctions: sphere leaks, failure of the main BHI pump and suspension sensors. The cost of a new original sphere is from 2,000 rubles, and the cost of a pump (module) is over 50,000 rubles. Often, the pump can be repaired, or you will have to look for a used module - in the region of 20,000 rubles. The sensors can sometimes be revived after cleaning and lubrication.

If the suspension is serviced regularly, it should easily go 200,000 km. After that, it is necessary to replace the synthetic LDS fluid, despite the fact that Citroen does not recommend this. As a result of diffusion, the nitrogen pressure in the spheres decreases and the suspension becomes less comfortable. This is especially noticeable on the rear axle. But before changing the fluid, you should check the condition of the hydraulic lines. They often rust after 10-12 years of use.

The front suspension is a MacPherson strut, while the rear has pendulum arms (something between a torsion beam and a multi-link design). Rear arm bearings wear out with age. Water penetrates through the aged oil seals and corrosion occurs. When worn, there is a knock, crunch or squeak.

The parking brake also received a non-standard solution. He uses the front wheels. With age, its mechanism often turns sour, which leads to incomplete release of the wheel. In order to avoid problems, the mechanism should be serviced periodically: cleaned, developed and lubricated.

The steering rack may require attention after 170-220 thousand km - a knock or leak appears. The cost of a repair kit is from 4,000 rubles, and a new rail - from 43,000 rubles.

Body and interior

The body of the Citroen C5 is well protected from corrosion. Red spots can sometimes be found on the brake lines.

The French car will pleasantly surprise those who like to receive a lot of information and appreciate functionality. There is a coolant temperature gauge on the dashboard, and in more advanced versions, a voltmeter and an oil temperature gauge. Only the basic version X does not have the Black Panel function, i.e.dimming unnecessary lights in the cockpit at night. Double sun visors. This means the driver does not have to juggle one visor when the sun is low. In good lighting, the illumination of the climate control elements is poorly visible.

The plastic used in the interior is of very good quality. However, it is sensitive to scratches. The front panel looks very aesthetically pleasing, but the ergonomics have suffered. Controlling dual-zone climate control requires a certain skill, especially the procedure for turning off the air conditioner, which cannot be done at the touch of a button. The standard CD-changer in complete copies was installed under the passenger seat. Its disadvantage is the careless handling of discs. He just scratches them.

In a hatchback, the luggage compartment can be folded behind the back of the sofa. This is a very useful feature when you need to transport something large. In other vehicles, drivers do not know what to do with the shelf removed. In station wagons, the tailgate glass opens separately. Please note that the glass lock often breaks. When loading into the trunk with the engine off, the rear suspension crouches slightly, which makes loading and unloading easier.

Electronics

The electronics of the Citroen C5 surprise at times. But after restyling in 2004, the situation has improved significantly.

The BSI comfort module fails due to corrosion of the electrical connections, moisture ingress or improper repair. If it fails, problems arise with the power windows, the central lock and the immobilizer, the “tree” on the dashboard lights up, or the hydropneumatic suspension stops functioning correctly. The block of pre-styling versions is considered more reliable and maintainable. After restyling, they began to install a block with a board filled with a compound, which complicates the repair. In most cases, the BSI can be revitalized by soldering the resistors. In an extreme case, you will have to look for a "used block", and it costs about 40,000 rubles.

Another sore spot is the steering column switch module. For example, the direction indicators stop turning on.

An indispensable attribute of luxury equipment - xenon headlights. Fortunately, there are few problems with them. Experience shows that the plastic glasses of such headlights turn cloudy much more slowly than that of many competitors.

Climate system

There are also frequent problems with the air conditioning system. In restyled copies, the dampers break. Subsequently, the manufacturer modernized them, but the reinforced dampers could only last 2-3 years. In the pre-styling version, the flaps do not break, but cuts off the splines in the flap drive mechanism.

The heater fan may not turn on due to a heater block failure. It is possible to restore operability after replacing the resistor - from 2,000 rubles. It is worth noting that worn out fan brushes contribute to the rapid demise of the resistor.

Citroen C5 is one of those cars that must be checked at the service before buying. This will help avoid additional costs. C5 can be recommended for those who can afford regular maintenance. For this, the owner will be rewarded with excellent comfort.

Anyone interested! Club car frames are made. More information on our forum >>>

Aleksandr777 »25 Oct 2016, 13:49

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Methods for relieving pressure in the hydraulic system (vehicle must be in low headroom position):

• Scan tool control relieves pressure in each suspension circuit by forcing the release solenoid valves
• Opening the pressure relief valves allows each suspension circuit to be set to atmospheric pressure

After replacing the built-in hydroelectronic unit, the following operations must be performed:

• Activate steering angle sensor identification
• Adjust body height
• Telecode functions related to suspension

The following errors can be detected with the diagnostic tool:

The first generation Citroen C5 debuted in 2001. In 2004, he went through a restyling. The most obvious differences are the shape of the front and rear lighting fixtures. During production, more than 720,000 copies were created.

The pre-styling and restyling versions of the Citroen C5 I participated in the Euro NCAP crash tests. In 2001, the French car earned 4 stars, and in 2004 - already five.

R4 1.8i / 115 hp (EW7 / 2001-2005)

R4 1.8i / 125 hp (EW7 / 2005-2008)

R4 2.0i / 136 hp (EW10 / 2001-2004)

R4 2.0 HPi / 136 hp (EW10 / 2001-2003)

R4 2.0i / 140 hp (EW10 / 2004-2008)

V6 3.0i / 207 hp (ES9 / 2001-2008)

R4 1.6 HDi FAP / 109 hp (DV 6 / 2004-2008)

R4 2.0 HDi / 90 HP (DW10 / 2002-2004)

R4 2.0 HDi / 109 hp (DW10 / 2001-2004)

R4 2.0 HDi FAP / 107 hp (DW10 / 2002-2004)

R4 2.0 HDi FAP / 136 hp (DW10 / 2004-2008)

R4 2.2 HDi FAP / 133 hp (DW12 / 2002-2005)

R4 2.2 HDi / 125 hp (DW12 / 2006-2008)

The smaller engines - the 1.8 petrol and 1.6 HDi diesel - lack traction at high speeds. This Citroen C5 hardly accelerates in 4th gear. Gasoline engines with a working volume of 2.0 liters and 3.0 liters behave much more confidently. But they are more expensive to maintain, especially the latter. A 3-liter unit with an automatic transmission at a quiet pace consumes about 12-13 liters per 100 km.

A common problem with gasoline units is not very durable ignition coils (5-7 thousand rubles apiece). In addition, oil leaks appear with age - more often from under the valve cover. It is worth noting that replacing the timing belt of a 3-liter V6 costs 20-30 thousand rubles (you have to disassemble a lot). The 2.0 HPI (Direct Injection) engine proved to be so unfortunate that it subsequently had to be abandoned.

Among diesel engines, the 2-liter has proven itself the best. It is technically simple, reliable and easy to repair. 2.2 HDi performed slightly worse. More modern 16-valve turbodiesels, which appeared after restyling, turned out to be very economical, but sensitive to fuel quality. After 200,000 km, replacement of the dual-mass flywheel, turbocharger and injectors is inevitable. In addition, diesel engines have malfunctions such as failure of the air flow meter, exhaust gas recirculation system and other components that are inexpensive to fix. However, the total cost of several of these repairs can be significant.

In 1.6 HDi, the oil should be changed more often, as the liners and the turbocharger wear out quickly. Another common malfunction is a stretched timing chain.

The prefix FAP in a diesel engine designation indicates a wet particulate filter that requires service. As a rule, its resource does not exceed 180-200 thousand km.

Transmission

Together with the engines, a 5-speed mechanics or a 4-speed automatic (AL4) was installed. For a 3-liter gasoline aspirated, instead of AL4, a 4-range automatic ZF 4HP20 was offered, and after restyling, the V6 was combined exclusively with a 6-speed automatic transmission from Aisin (AM6).

Restyled diesel versions began to be aggregated with 6-speed mechanics and AM6, except for the 133-horsepower 2.2 HDi FAP (2004-2005), which was offered with the ZF 4HP20. The basic version with 1.6 HDi was equipped with only a 5-speed manual transmission.

Now is the time to mention something that worries many Citroen C5 owners with a manual transmission. We are talking about the inaccurate operation of the gear selection mechanism. Unfortunately, the problem gets worse as mileage increases. It becomes more and more difficult to determine which gear is on. The mechanism will have to be replaced. The clutch serves over 200,000 km. The cost of a new set is about 7,000 rubles.

Among automatic transmissions, the Japanese Aisin and the German ZF enjoy a good reputation. Most of all criticism is caused by the French AL4. She begins to push strongly to 150-200 thousand km. In the best case, it will be possible to get off with the replacement of the solenoids, in the worst case, the valve body will also have to be replaced. Deeper repairs will be needed after 200-250 thousand km, for which you should stock up on the amount of 50-70 thousand rubles.

Even when 4 well-fed gentlemen with suitcases sit in the Citroen C5 (with the engine running), the car will, of course, sag at first, but after a while it will return to its normal position. Constant ground clearance, regardless of the load, is provided by the Hydroactive III hydropneumatic suspension - Citroen's own development. The hydropneumatic elements act as shock absorbers and coil springs.

The amount of ground clearance is regulated by two buttons on the center tunnel. The driver can choose from four levels: normal, low, dirt and high. That's not all. In the normal position, after exceeding the speed of 110 km / h, the front suspension sags by 15 mm and the rear by 11 mm. As soon as the speed drops below 90 km / h, the ground clearance returns to its original position. If the road is in bumps and potholes, then the car will automatically rise by 13 mm in front and behind (additional mode on restyled models).

The upgraded version with "Hydroactive III +" has a "Sport" button between the two mode control buttons. If you press it, the car will roll and sway less. But even in normal mode, body vibrations are small. In addition, the Hydroactive III + can automatically switch to sport mode, depending on the amount of acceleration or body roll.

Technically, Hydroactive III + features six spheres (balls) filled with nitrogen, while the regular version has four spheres. However, in both cases, the Citroen C5 is a comfortable car, without sacrificing stability and handling.

Notably, the hydropneumatic suspension and steering share the same LDS hydraulic fluid supply. However, each of the systems has its own pump.

Unfortunately, hydropneumatic suspension repairs are not cheap. Typical malfunctions: sphere leaks, failure of the main BHI pump and suspension sensors. The cost of a new original sphere is from 2,000 rubles, and the cost of a pump (module) is over 50,000 rubles. Often, the pump can be repaired, or you will have to look for a used module - in the region of 20,000 rubles. The sensors can sometimes be revived after cleaning and lubrication.

If the suspension is serviced regularly, it should easily go 200,000 km. After that, it is necessary to replace the synthetic LDS fluid, despite the fact that Citroen does not recommend this. As a result of diffusion, the nitrogen pressure in the spheres decreases and the suspension becomes less comfortable. This is especially noticeable on the rear axle. But before changing the fluid, you should check the condition of the hydraulic lines. They often rust after 10-12 years of use.

The front suspension is a MacPherson strut, while the rear has pendulum arms (something between a torsion beam and a multi-link design). Rear arm bearings wear out with age. Water penetrates through the aged oil seals and corrosion occurs. When worn, there is a knock, crunch or squeak.

The parking brake also received a non-standard solution. He uses the front wheels. With age, its mechanism often turns sour, which leads to incomplete release of the wheel. In order to avoid problems, the mechanism should be serviced periodically: cleaned, developed and lubricated.

The steering rack may require attention after 170-220 thousand km - a knock or leak appears. The cost of a repair kit is from 4,000 rubles, and a new rail - from 43,000 rubles.

Body and interior

The body of the Citroen C5 is well protected from corrosion. Red spots can sometimes be found on the brake lines.

The French car will pleasantly surprise those who like to receive a lot of information and appreciate functionality. There is a coolant temperature gauge on the dashboard, and in more advanced versions, a voltmeter and an oil temperature gauge. Only the basic version X does not have the Black Panel function, i.e. dimming unnecessary lights in the cockpit at night. Double sun visors. This means the driver does not have to juggle one visor when the sun is low.In good lighting, the illumination of the climate control elements is poorly visible.

The plastic used in the interior is of very good quality. However, it is sensitive to scratches. The front panel looks very aesthetically pleasing, but the ergonomics have suffered. Controlling dual-zone climate control requires a certain skill, especially the procedure for turning off the air conditioner, which cannot be done at the touch of a button. The standard CD-changer in complete copies was installed under the passenger seat. Its disadvantage is the careless handling of discs. He just scratches them.

In a hatchback, the luggage compartment can be folded behind the back of the sofa. This is a very useful feature when you need to transport something large. In other vehicles, drivers do not know what to do with the shelf removed. In station wagons, the tailgate glass opens separately. Please note that the glass lock often breaks. When loading into the trunk with the engine off, the rear suspension crouches slightly, which makes loading and unloading easier.

Electronics

The electronics of the Citroen C5 surprise at times. But after restyling in 2004, the situation has improved significantly.

The BSI comfort module fails due to corrosion of the electrical connections, moisture ingress or improper repair. If it fails, problems arise with the power windows, the central lock and the immobilizer, the “tree” on the dashboard lights up, or the hydropneumatic suspension stops functioning correctly. The block of pre-styling versions is considered more reliable and maintainable. After restyling, they began to install a block with a board filled with a compound, which complicates the repair. In most cases, the BSI can be revitalized by soldering the resistors. In an extreme case, you will have to look for a "used block", and it costs about 40,000 rubles.

Another sore spot is the steering column switch module. For example, the direction indicators stop turning on.

An indispensable attribute of luxury equipment - xenon headlights. Fortunately, there are few problems with them. Experience shows that the plastic glasses of such headlights turn cloudy much more slowly than that of many competitors.

Climate system

There are also frequent problems with the air conditioning system. In restyled copies, the dampers break. Subsequently, the manufacturer modernized them, but the reinforced dampers could only last 2-3 years. In the pre-styling version, the flaps do not break, but cuts off the splines in the flap drive mechanism.

The heater fan may not turn on due to a heater block failure. It is possible to restore operability after replacing the resistor - from 2,000 rubles. It is worth noting that worn out fan brushes contribute to the rapid demise of the resistor.

Citroen C5 is one of those cars that must be checked at the service before buying. This will help avoid additional costs. C5 can be recommended for those who can afford regular maintenance. For this, the owner will be rewarded with excellent comfort.