2002 Citroen C5 Estate 2.0 petrol from Australia and New Zealand

Summary:

Flawed

Faults:

Where to start!

Major issue is engine shut down whilst driving, causing loss of power steering / brakes.

Despite a number of service call not yet fixed.

Electric motor in passenger seat has broken.

Rear electric locks have been replaced 2 times and are still o/s.

Recalled with engine management system fault.

Recalled with wheel problem - at least I got some new tyres.

When going, a great car, but NOT SAFE when engine can and does cut out at speed.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? No

Review Date: 6th November, 2005

2002 Citroen C5 LX Hatchback 2.0 Hdi 110 bhp from UK and Ireland

Summary:

High tech nightmare

Faults:

On day of purchase Comms 2000 unit failed leaving no indicators.

After a week realised the Trafficmaster wasn't working correctly, dealer tried parts from service managers car to detect fault eventually waited 4 months for new unit. At least dealer arranged full 12 month licence.

After 3 months Comms 2000 unit failed again.

Interior lights come on in heavy rain, no fault found, but suspect water ingress in electrics.

Wheels replaced on a recall because they crack, apparently they are alloy, but look like black painted steel rims.

Air doser unit leaked oil, replaced twice and still leaking at disposal.

At 63000 most worrying the suspension developed a mind of its own. Setting changed every time engine switched on varying from very soft to very hard. Green indicator never altered and dealer said no fault codes found although after test drives they checked it out 3 times.

Audio controls on steering column stopped working and car went into permanent 'Eco Mode', dealer said no fault codes found (see above), but there obviously was so system remapped. TIP!!, if this happens to you disconnect battery for 30 seconds and reconnect, it worked on mine at leasst a further 10 times.

Doors started to stick unless pushed open from inside.

Radio interference on AM band from engine, rev related.

Nearside front window went up and down on its own after my wife and I both tried to lower it at the same time. Answer, we raised it both at the same time.

Like all C5's, headlamps flickered due to multiplex wiring system.

General Comments:

A spacious car spoilt by too much unproven or should it be unnecessary technology.

The proven parts i.e. engine, gearbox never a problem and in it's earlier days was a joy to drive, that joy went when suspension started to play up.

No problems with trim or bodywork.

Poor dealer support and Citroen parts availability is a problem in general.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? No

Review Date: 31st March, 2005

11th Jul 2009, 20:41

It is shocking, I just want to buy one, oh my...

16th Dec 2009, 10:00

Comms 2000 seems to be a major failure with C5s. Many have gone bust, not only with C5s but with Citroens in general.

Citroen needs to sort itself out and start producing reliable cars.

2002 Citroen C5 Exclusive 2.2 HDi from UK and Ireland

Summary:

Nice car, but I'm not sure whether I'd buy another one

Faults:

Both front door locks failed to open.

Button on Cruise Control Stalk persistently stuck in when selecting higher speed.

Passenger side window opens by itself and will not stay closed when put in closed position.

Found car to be unlocked in the morning, when I'm sure I'd locked it at night.

Sometimes the headlights come on when too dark and their automatic operation has to be by-passed They also stay on when it is bright.

Headlights flicker. This is particularly annoying on the motorway.

Rear suspension bumps nosily.

General Comments:

This car is my seventh Citroen.

The car is very comfortable over long distances and a pleasure to drive. It is a big improvement on the Xantia, however the Electronic faults should have been ironed out before it was put on the market.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Don't Know

Review Date: 30th December, 2004

12th Jul 2008, 12:56

I too have same fault with passenger window driving down. It won't stay closed; anybody know why? Only way to shut it is to do it up millimetre by millimetre.