CITROEN C3: Questions and answers

Citroen C3 2010

Hi I recently bought a Citroen C3 vtr plus 2010, mileage around 9,000 and when revving the exhaust blows/pops intermittently. I`m just curious if this is a cause for concern as the diagnostics are not showing any defect, although the dealer fitted a new exhaust to try to rectify it but the noise was still evident. I`m not sure if I have a case to request an exchange or refund as they state it can’t be fixed but do not explain what the cause is, claiming that it`s just a characteristic on this model. When re-selling this may be a problem to try and explain away to potential buyers so I`m not sure what to do about it. Can anyone advise me please? Many thanks for your help. (VTRs plus)

Citroen C3 2004

My Citroen C3`s blower won`t shut off permanently on full power. If I press the + or - button it does not alter the blower speed. Can anyone help please?

Answers

Problem sorted. It was the electric control module situated in drivers footwell just above left foot, held in with one bolt and has 2 green push on connectors. Cost £75 new, apparently common fault on the C3. May be of help to anyone else having this problem... Barrie from Lincolnshire

Citroen C3 2002

My Citroen C3 has stopped working due to water in the ECU housing. Can this be dried out or will I need a new one, or can it be repaired? Please advise as the garage which has the car just wants to fit a new one at £500.

Answers

My wife’s C3 started up, ticked over perfect but would not drive, would cut out and splutter. Fault codes were faulty cat and crank shaft sensor. I replaced both - still same problem. Had it taken to a Citroen specialist who said it was ECU problem or throttle body. We contacted the garage we bought the car from (7 months ago) as throttle body looked like new fitted and garage confirmed that a new one was fitted prior to us buying the car. Car taken to another Citroen specialist who replaced the throttle body under manufacturers warranty and still didn’t work. Had a call this morning to say there was water in the ECU, this had been dried out and car drove perfectly. They are now taking the new throttle body off and putting the old one back on. So in short, yes, the ECU’s can be dried out. I would suggest you put sealant/ silicon around the windscreen wash pipes where they enter the bonnet as this is a common fault with C3’s water getting through and dripping onto and in fuel injector and other electrical parts. Oddly enough our problem must have started the same time as yours. But with lots of rain lately maybe not so odd! Kevin Kelly from Warwickshire

Citroen C3 2005

My Citroen C3`s warning light comes on telling us that we have a fault with the water, but there is no problem. The light comes on and goes off. We have been told it`s a faulty sensor but it`s not on all of the time. What should we do?

Citroen C3 2004

I would like to know if I change the ignition of my Citroen C3 using the 2011 Citroen C3 model ignition,, on the 2004 Citroen C3 Model, will it work or is it going to give me a problem?

Citroen C3

Hi. Since owning my Citroen C3 for 6 months I have been having a problem with the fan. It was not starting when the car heated up, so I used to seperate one of two connections that are connected to the fan (the black one) and connect it again in order to start it. However, now another thing is happening. When the fan starts cooling the motor suddenly the heat jumps from the mark 3 to the maximum and not progressively. I made car scanner during the last 6 months and the result was the following: 1. P0135 up stream (I fixed this one) 2. P0485 Fan Unit (I think this is related to the fan problem ) 3. P0420 Catalytic. What does anyone think that the problem is?

Citroen C3 2002

My daughter bought a Citroen C3 16v Exclusive 3 months ago and has had problems since the start. It kept cutting out when driving 50mph and then black smoke came out of the exhaust. We took it to a garage and they have supposedly fixed it, but last night the alarm kept going off and she had to leave it unlocked. This morning when she tried to start it it would not start and the battery was completely flat. How do I find out what has drained the battery? (16v Exclusive)

Answers

Try having the alternator checked, it might not be charging the battery properly so the car is effectively draining the battery when running, or failing that could be a bad battery or battery earth lead. This sound like a low voltage issue effecting the running of the car - John Jonston from Lancashire

Citroen C3 2003

The fan on my Citroen C3`s heater has stopped working. The heat still comes out but there’s no air being pushed out. I want to fix this before I sell my car. Can anyone help?

Citroen C3 2007

My Citroen C3`s fault indicator bar comes up with non existant faults on every journey that I make. It says that the fog lights are not working or the side lights and that a service is required and makes lots of beeps. The car was serviced in October. I have had the car annually serviced and it`s mileage is never up to the service mileage. Could this be because the car has not been serviced by a Citroen dealership?

Answers

Hi, your problem will be the earth pin on the rear lamp connectors having a high resistance and when braking and indicating can cause power to leak in to other rear lamps, i.e. fog lights etc, causing spurious faults and warning bleeps on display. The conectors, can be cleaned/tighten as a temp fix, but a permant fix would be to bypass the earth pin. I live in W-S-M and can fix this for you. Cheers - Wayne Willett from Somerset wayneawillett [at] hotmail [dot] co [dot] uk

Citroen C3 2003

Does anyone know what is the cost to replace a front spring on a Citroen C3 2003?

Citroen C3 2007

An engine light has illuminated on the dashboard of my Citroen C3 and an anti-pollution fault is showing on my screen. Any ideas? Is there a way to get the fault codes on a C3? I know that some cars allow you to do this, eg foot on brake, accelerator with key at first stage? (C3 1.4 Desire)

Citroen C3 2002

Please help. My diesel Citroen C3 02 plate won`t start. The engine won`t turn over although the dashboard and radio will come on. I have checked the battery and that`s fine. I disconnected the battery and connected it again but it still won`t start. Any advice please?

Answers

Check the starter motor earth lead connected to it. It may of just come loose or developed a bad contact due to corrosion, undo the earth cable clean with sandpaper, wipe with WD40 and refit. Failing that have the starter motor checked!! Finally! failing that, it could be the ignition barrel but try the other two first? John Jonston from Lancashire

Citroen C3 2002

My Citroen C3 SX has just begun to emit a loud buzz when I press the locking button on the dashboard. The same noise occurs when I press the key to lock it from the outside. I have tried with both keys and the result is the same. Does anyone have the answer please ?

Citroen C3 2002

My Citroen C3`s child lock can`t be turned off. What can I do to fix this or reset the child lock?

Citroen C3 2004

How do I change my Citroen C3`s speedometer from kilometres to miles per hour? (Desire)

Citroen C3 2003

Hi. Is it still possible to purchase a high pressure fuel pump for the Citroen C3, as my car is with Citroen dealers awaiting this part and they are unable to source one? Thank you. (C3 1.4 hdi)

Citroen C3 2010

When the anti polution warning and or low oil pressure warning light in my Citroen C3 are displayed the engine cuts out and the car stops, which is dangerous. Can anyone suggest why? (diesel airdream)

Citroen C3 2004

When my Citroen C3 starts up from cold there is a roaring noise. When I accelerate it seems to come from the back of the car. I have had the exhaust checked and they said it was okay. Iit goes after it`s been running for 5 minutes. Any ideas?

Citroen C3 2002

My Citroen C3 has started making a humming noise when the engine is off. It only stops when I go to open and shut the door. Also there is a burning smell coming from the engine. Can anyone help?

Citroen C3 2003

The rear windscreen wiper on my Citroen C3 seems to have taken on a life of its own. It comes on quite randomly even when switched off, when I unlock the car, open the boot or just when I`m driving. I’ve checked the fuse and it seems okay. Could it be a relay? There is an awful lot of clicking in that department. Does anyone know how to get at them? Any help would be welcome. Thanks.

Answers

Mine started like that, turned out to be engine ECU - Paul Thompson from England

Citroen C3 2010

I have bought a Citroen C3 Exclusive 2010. I was expecting the digital display on the dashboard where the petrol indicator is to show what gear I am in and when to change it, but it doesn`t show this. The space where it`s meant to have this is totally blank. Is there a button I press to get this to show or is it an "extra" that I pay to be added onto the car? I have tried reading my manual but it`s in German. I`ve tried downloading a manual but couldn`t find it online. Please can anyone advise? Thank you. (Exclusive)

Citroen C3 2004

Which fuse serves the indicators in my Citroen C3 please?

Citroen C3 2002

My C3 has started making a humming noise when the engine is off. It only stops when I go open and shut the door. Also there is a burning smell coming from the engine.

Citroen C3 2004

When my Citroen C3 starts up from cold, there is a roaring noise. When I accelerate, it seems to come from the back of the car. I have had the exhaust checked and they said it was okay, it goes after it has been run for 5 minutes. Any ideas?

Answers

Check the heat shield for looseness or vibration when the exhaust begins warming up and flexing, or loose baffles in the rear silencer - John Johnston from Lancashire

Citroen C3 2003

We have a malfunctioning indicator control. Indicators cone on and off at random while driving. Agents and service repairers advise we need a complete new unit. They want $1000!!! Crazy. So I am looking for a (used Part) complete indicator, steering column unit, module for a Citroen, C3 year 2003. Chassis Nr VF7FCHFXB27090051. Any other ideas?

Citroen C3 2011

I had a red STOP sign come up and also Engine Temperature fault come up. It turned out that water was too low. The RAC filled it up but the STOP light was still on, the car however was running fine, so I drove home, no problems. However, this morning when I turned the car on the STOP light came on and stayed on, the Engine Temperature fault sign came up, but did not stay on. Also the fan came on straight away. Any idea what is wrong?

Citroen C3 2003

The electronically-controlled air conditioning has suddenly started blowing at full blast. It doesn’t respond to on/off switch, fan switch or temp. controls. Has anyone seen this before--does anyone have a solution?

Answers

This is a common fault on a lot of cars and is almost always 1 of 2 things: Either a faulty earth point for the controls. If this is the case it normally effects other things in the car, have you noticed any other strange things like other lights coming on/off? If not, it’s almost certainly the heater resistor/transistor that has burnt out. In a C3 it’s in it’s own box under the glove box. It’s held in with 2-3 bolts and has a few wires running to it and has a big silver metal bit for cooling. A new one is about £50, £30 second hand - Mike from Essex

Citroen C3 2003

Why does a Citroen C3 beep three times when you take your foot off the foot brake and apply the acceleration?

Citroen C3 2004

Every now and then I am getting a constant beeping noise in my Citroen C3 which seems to come through the speakers. I have tried locking the car and switching off the engine but that does not stop it. It does stop after the car has ben switched off for 10 minutes or so. Can anyone help? Also I have got a little spanner symbol on the panel next to the mileage counter. What is this telling me?

Answers

The beeping noise is a warning indication, that something’s not right, try looking for things that might not be closed properly like tailgate doors or bonnet, but this would only beep with the engine running or when moving. Is there a fault indication on the display when you hear this sound? Are there any mobile devices in the car that could transmit signal interference through the speakers, but this would not sound like a beep and would only be present a few seconds before recieving a call or txt. Is the inside cabin light switched to ON, instead of being on OFF or DOOR ACTIVATED. The spanner suggests that your service is nearly due or due - John Jonston from Lancashire

Citroen C3 2004

My Citroen C3 has a small oil leak coming from the sump support bracket. The sump is okay and I have just had an oil change. Does anyone know where the oil is coming from?

Answers

Try tightening all the sump pan bolts slightly, sometimes the seal can weep oil around here. Also check the cam rocker box cover seal at the top of the engine for oil seepage - John Jonston from Lancashire

Citroen C3 2005

I have tried to set my Citroen C3 auto lights to come on. I have pressed the button on the stalk but nothing is happening. Can anyone please tell me why? (Desire)

Answers

No stalk pressing involved, just rotate left hand stalk end to auto setting - John Johnston from Lancashire

Citroen C3 2009

My C3 has, on 6 occasions, started perfectly on my driveway, then after travelling between 25 yards and 100 yards, just cuts out. It does restart immediately and continues well for the rest of my journey. My dealer has looked for the fault on 2 occasions and comes up with no answer at all. They have had the car overnight to hopefully re-enact the situation, but of course, it did not happen. I have changed my fuel supplier to check that area, but still happens! Has anyone else had this problem. It is C3, petrol, 1300 engine, warranty out end of March. Any comments appreciated.

Citroen C3 2003

What is the purpose of the large iron weight on top of the gearbox of the Citroen C3 linked to one of the operating levers? It seems to make gear changing more difficult and perhaps cause premature failure. But Citroen must have thought it was a good idea? (1.4)

Answers

I have a note in the service history for my 2003 C3 1.4i Desire from Citroen that says the weight was added because of the car not going into gear properly and the gear changes being ’vague’ - Mike from Essex

Citroen C3 2007

Hello. I had a new exhaust fitted a few days ago on my Citroen C3 and, apart from the popping of the exhaust, my C3 was running beautifully. However, since then my clock is no longer illuminated. I had a new left front headlight bulb changed (by the dealer) on Saturday. Oddly the clock was illuminated on the drive to the garage but has now stopped again! Can someone tell me how to get it working again? Many thanks. (07 plate)

Answers

Try the pressing the DARK button on the radio fascia there, should be about three settings: Bright, Medium and Dark - John Jonston from Lancashire

Citroen C3 2004

My Citroen C3 car alarm keeps going off. It’s not the battery as the car starts perfectly every time. It only seems to happen at night?

Citroen C3 2006

I need to get a new bonnet and front panel (what the bonnet locks on too). My C3 is the 2006 model, but I am wondering if these parts would be the same in a 2004 model?

Citroen C3 2004

My Citroen C3 plays up when trying to start, almost like a dead battery. When it did start the engine auto-diagnosis lights are on. Now would it be that something happened with the dodgy start? Also my coolant levels drops rapidly, would that indicate a radiator leak? It’s under warranty and being looked at on Friday.... wish I had never swapped my Zafira now... oh and it STILL BEEPS 3 TIMES when I start it... I don’t like this car.

Citroen C3 2003

On my Citroen C3’s dashboard it has a picture of a spanner and says A 3. I don’t get it. Few days ago it said A 1 then A 2 and now says A 3. Can someone help please? Thank you.

Answers

Disconnect the battery, it will reset the ecu and if your car is fine then you could do this disconnect bat for around three hours. Good luck - Sajid Kann from Yorkshire

Citroen C3 2004

Something on my Citroen C3 is draining the battery. The AA bloke said there was a problem with the alternator not charging the battery when the car is parked up. If it is the alternator this will be the fourth one that will be fitted. I bought the car from new and had an alternator fitted in 2009 and 2010. Is there an underlying problem here that has not been originally found? (DESIRE)

Answers

I had a similar problem with my Citroen Saxo. Citroen said it needed a new instrument pod (£350). They did this but when I collected my car I noticed it still had the same problem. Made phone call to Citroen and fortunately they hadn’t thrown the pod away and agreed to refit it. They then sent me out in my car with a technician who solved the problem in 30 seconds. It was the earth lead to the body work. Why they didn’t check the simple free obvious things first I will never know - Doris Jones from Kent

When I was thinking of buying a C3 I looked for possible problems. I remember reading that a drained battery could be the fault of the alarm, and that there was a "software fix", whatever that was. Worth investigating, perhaps? Fred Whiting from Cheshire

Had a problem with my C3 draining battery dead, after two new battery’s auto electrician found water in relays which were located inside the bottom of the n/s front wing, thus causing drain on battery. Replaced relays and taped them up to keep water out and it has been okay since. Hope this helps - Ian Richards from England

Citroen C3 2005

My Citroen C3 is making a beeping noise and the interior light keeps flashing on and off. Any help on what the issue could be? Recently had a water hose leak and was overheating but that has been fixed.

Answers

The boot lid is open! - Adam Jefferson from England

Citroen C3 2002

Hi, my Citroen C3’s boot has just recently stopped opening when I press the remote, so I have to climb in the boot to release manually. Can someone please help? (Exclusive)

Answers

Our C3 2002 boot only opens after the rear right door has been opened. It’s like a secret locking mechanism. Haven’t bothered getting it fixed as opening the door is much cheaper - Peny from Australia

Citroen C3 2003

It takes an age to get to temperature, never gets above 3 bars. During cold running changes gear at will. I know it’s winter but the car is being driven in Spain... (auto)

Answers

I’m not sure about the automatic gearbox randomly changing gear, but the car should never go above 3 bars of heat, and if you’re not driving ’spiritedly’ then it will take 10-15 mins to heat up - Mike from England

Citroen C3 2004

While my Citroen C3 starts OK the window wipers run slowly then after 2 minutes of driving the battery light comes and stays on followed by a beep and the ABS warning lamp comes on next but flashes on then off. After another minute the Air Bag light comes on and stays on? Then the engine shudders as if losing power and I can feel the power steering fail also. While this is happening the hand brake light comes on? Also the stereo switches off and on itself, while managing to keep the car running after this sequence of events the car returns to working normally ie. window wipers return to normal speed, all the lights go of except the Air Bag light that stays on? Please, any help or advice welcome.

Answers

It sounds like an esc fault, could be loose connection to the esc or sensor/sensors, or wet getting into esc wire or sensor wires, I would check all connections under the bonnet to esc and all sensors. If okay, close bonnet use watering can on bonnet let stop dripping then lift bonnet inspect all connections that they’re not wet, sometimes the older C3s can leak through the holes where the windscreen washers come through the bonnet. If found wet connection then dry cure where water comes in spray connection with WD40, disconnect battery for a few minutes then reconnect - Martin Anderson from Staffordshire

Citroen C3 2004

Lights on dashboard coming on while driving recently? Starting with battery light coming on then eventually going off itself. Before it goes off the air bag light comes on and also the "skid light". I’m not sure what this light is as its my partner’s car and told that’s what it looks like? We can start the car in the morning no problem but the window wiper moves very slowly then 2 minutes down the road the lights start to come on? Eventually the wipers work normally (speed) but the lights come on with warning sounds as they light up? Battery checks come back fine, alternators have been replaced before and recent check shows it works (charges) coil packs also been replaced before? But think this could be the case again as garage checks come back OK? Any help or advice would be greatly appreciated. (C3 Desire)

Citroen C3 2006

I have just bought a used C3 Desire ’06 plate. The battery has been disconnected at some point and the central information display panel needs resetting to correct date and time etc. The panel itself is working otherwise but I am unable to locate any ’buttons’ to reset it . I do have a C3 manual but the appropriate section of that shows two central display possibilities which have a button on each side, so not much use. I love the car but don’t fancy being stuck in 2004 for ever. The car was bought from a salvage firm and is a stolen/recovered so I don’t have a code card for it. Can anyone help please?

Answers

The control functions are on the CD player fascia, press the MENU button and then the up and down, left and right buttons around the OK button, to navigate to the correct menu Option. Press the OK Button to confirm settings - John Johnston from Lancashire

Citroen C3 2005

I have a Citroen C3 1400 hdi on a Bosch system with starting and running problems: Fault code p 1166 high fuel pressure. I had the fuel pump, injectors, ecu and lots of sensors I have checked. Has anyone any more ideas?

Citroen C3 2004

For the last 2 mornings, when I get into my car and start the engine I have noticed that my clock/date has reset and is flashing (like when you disconnect the battery). The car still runs OK, but I am concerned that this could signify something sinister about to happen and as I drive 46 miles a day to work, I don’t want to be stranded!!! The car also has the following faults that may or may not be linked (but I can’t afford to have them fixed at the moment): Power Steering intermittently stops working - sometimes when I start the car it isn’t working, the next day it will be fine. Rear Heated Screen has stopped working completely. Air-Con has died - it will work for 30 seconds, then go off and come on for 30 seconds after about a minute. Engine light occasionally comes on whilst driving - car jerks, loses power, light comes on but then goes off and the car is fine again. Handbrake light won’t go off when starting car - think its the button sticking... after a fiddle it goes off. What a mess!!! Obviously I would like to get the car completely fixed, but I can’t afford it. I can only take it to the garage to keep it running. P.S - Couldn’t afford a service last year, but my dad did a complete oil change and changed the oil filter himself.

Answers

If your car loses power, it may be your Relay box. Hope it is the right name next to the battery got water in it. I had a similar problem and then found out one of the pins broke off due to water and we had to attach the wire directly too the box from the switch attached to it. The car was running perfectly until now that I need to replace the fuel pump. I did 230 000Km with my Citroen up to date - Colin Taute from South Africa

Citroen C3 2006

Hi. The brake light has gone out on my Citroen C3 and after removing I found it not to be the bulb. Any ideas? I have also had four other bulbs blow over the last 2 years - 3 head light, 1 side light, 1 indicator and now the passenger side brake light. Grrr!

Answers

Take your pick! 1. New bulb (or check bulb in other light cluster). 2. Poor sprung contact in the bulb socket, bend the metal forward slightly to make good contact with the rear of the bulb. 3. Dirty or corroded cluster contacts, sand paper and WD40 to the rescue. 4. Corroded or Loose earth wire contact, to the back cluster, though all the lights would generally not work or flicker on and off over bumps. 5. Water ingress onto the bulb contacts creating a short, but this would blow the bulb and create a fault indication on the dash screen. These can apply to the other bulbs aswell. If all three brake lights fail to work, check your brake light switch. They are generally of rubbish quality. Fixed mine with super glue, say no more! - John Jonston from Lancashire

Citroen C3 2005

On my Citroen C3 fuse board there are three PBT20 GF connectors of wire: One gray, another green and the third black. How they are connected, right to left? (1.4HDi, BVM)

Citroen C3 2011

Can anyone tell me if they have an irritating noise coming from the rear of their Citroen C3 on undulating roads? It is driving me mad!

Answers

Leave the wife and mother-in-law at home! There’s lots of different noise definitions please be more specific. Bang, squeak, scrape, rattle, etc - John Jonston from Lancashire

Citroen C3 2003

Here’s one for everyone - and if you haven’t had the faults yet, you will in the near future... Had the car since new, currently has 39,496 miles on the odometer (will get to the reason why this is in a bit). Fault 1: The occasional turning off of the power steering followed swiftly by the speedometer reading 0MPH (which in turns means the car is not clocking the miles) - this has always happened (since new in ’03). Fault 2: The annoying (intermittent) 3 beeps when applying the handbrake, or turning a corner or just starting the engine. Fault 3: The alternator breaking (the car is on its 3rd (remember the car has only done 39,496 miles). Fault 4: Clutch slippage (had a new clutch fitted now - remember the car has only done 39,496 miles). Fault 5: The unusual behaviour when the car is not turned on (like the ability to unlock itself (but only when the outside temp is less than 3C)). Other problems encountered - both front coils snapped and got replaced - the intermittent dashboard engine management light coming on, followed by it going off without any work being done. The list goes on and on (and I can safely say this car has more problems) - but to fix 90% of all these problems all I’ve ever needed is one can of WD40 (’cos water gets at the sockets to the ECU and causes short circuits) - maybe some of you out there should stop taking it to a garage at the first sign of trouble and give your car a little squirt!

Answers

Fault 2/ my Citroen C3 2004 has started the 3 beeps on slowing down and turning corners but I also have a problem that started first which was a constant beep which carried on even if engine was stopped and the car locked. The beep seems to come from the speakers when constant, it eventually stops once the car has been locked for approx 10 minutes - Moira from England

Citroen C3 2003

I have a 2003 Citroen C3 automatic and it occasionally pops out of gear and what would show the car is in drive goes to two small lines. But it still drives... you have to stop, turn the car off and then on again and also has this continuous whirring noise which I can only feel is related to the gears... I’m assuming?

Citroen C3 2007

A warning is coming up when starting my Citroen C3. Flip battery spent. Anyone know what this means. Whilst driving everything seems OK.

Answers

You need a new battery in your key :) - Shelle from Mid-Lothian (Edinburghshire)

The battery in the remote key fob is running out and needs changing. Just had to do mine. However, despite following every instruction in the manual and on the internet, I can’t reinitialise it so make sure you have a spare before you start. Good luck - Sally Bosisto from Dorset

Citroen C3 2005

My Citroen C3’s engine keeps misfiring and has been in the garage 4 times. The problem seemed to be solved but then, 3 weeks later, the problem came back. I have had car serviced and changed plugs, coil and cleaned jets, yet still problem exists. What else could it be?

Citroen C3 2003

Hi. I bought this super little Citroen C3 9 months ago and it has running great UNTIL the engine light occasionally came on, power dropped and I had to pull off the road. I restarted it again and it was fine for a week or so, then it started again? I noticed it seems to happen when turning left mainly. There are also an audible 2 beeps while driving then the engine seems to shudder then regain power? HELP!! (1.4 hdi)

Answers

Sounds to me like fuel system probs? Possible EGR valve or injectors - Snoook 888 from Kent

I had the same problem, turned out to be a fuel injector that needed to be replaced - Ben Slater from Ireland

Well, it turns out it was a faulty wiring harness under the engine currently under repair at £30 per hour. It has cost me £120 so far, may need new harness? Thanks for replies anyway - George Baker from England

We had the same problem, until the car stopped completely from full motion to nothing in seconds - luckily no truck following. Had to replace the coil block (using tiny fingers). Found one second-hand on the internet. Installed, problems fixed instantly - Penny from Australia

Citroen C3 2005

When I start my Citroen C3 a message and a bleep comes up. The message reads BLIP BATTERY followed by Message spent. I haven’t got the handbook, can you tell me what this means? Thank you. (SX)

Answers

Hi, change the battery in your key remote for door locks. Thanks - Darren Paine from Essex

Citroen C3 2003

My Citroen C3 is nearly 9 years old, but recently I have had problems with the fuel injector light coming on. It has had a new coil pack which I was told it needed, but alas this morning the light came on again. I am told that this is due to a glitch on the computer, but why now?

Citroen C3 2007

Firstly, has a 2007 Citroen C3 got a two stage thermostat fitted? A local garage removed mine, told me it was OK to drive the car until the new thermostat arrived later that day.

Citroen C3 2007

I have been told by the dealer I bought the Citroen C3 from I do not need the security card to have more keys cut. Is that correct?

Answers

Keys are cut to chassis usually via a Citroen dealer, so the key card isn’t required, it’s for the key coding that if you go to a garage (non Citroen) who don’t have the correct equipment for programing that it may be required, 99% of Citroen dealers can supply & program the keys without the card. Hope that helps - Tracy from England

Citroen C3 2006

My Citroen C3’s back screen washer will come on by itself. Sometimes will continue for quite a well and sometimes it appears OK. Also my lights will come on by themselves, again not all the time. What might be causing this to happen?

Answers

Did you manage to resolve this problem? My C3 does exactly the same thing, it drives me nuts. Darran Pearce from Cardiff.

Citroen C3 2002

I have just bought a Citroen C3 sx hdi diesel 52 plate. There are 2 bars on the fuel gauge but it keeps beeping 3 times and flashing up to the top and back down again. I went and put £25 of diesel in and it took it up 1 bar yet it is still beeping. It will do it 3 or 4 times in 1 go then not do it again for a few hours. Can anyone tell me what the problem could be?

Citroen C3 2005

My Citroen C3’s temperature gauge shot up to 5 yellow bars and the 6th in the red. When I stopped the car the engine was normal temp, with no sign over heating. After turning the engine off for 15 mins I continued home for a distance of 12 miles and the highest temp indicated was 2 bars. Can anyone explain this? (1.4 Auto)

Answers

My 2002 C3 did this, you need a new temperature sensor. For once, a quite cheap and quick repair from the Citroen dealer solved the problem  - Sarah Barnard from Wiltshire

Citroen C3 2002

I have a petrol leak from the intake pipe to the fuel tank beneath the back seat. Looks like a crack in the pipe. Should it be there or is this a fracture?

Citroen C3 2007

Why does my Citroen C3’s radiator fan keep running when the car is turned off?

Answers

Thermostat or overheating, have your coolant levels checked, but you should really get a warning on the display panel if this was the case. Failing that, it could be down to a water pump failure, not circulating the water through the cooling system correctly or a blockage in the radiator. Have the system drained down and refilled and see what happens - John Johnston from Lancashire

Citroen C3 2004

The front passenger door on my Citroen C3 won’t open from the outside. Is this down to the central locking or is it something with the mechanism in the door. Has anyone else had this problem?

Answers

You need to change the lock magenism then it will work fine. I had the same problem - Willie de Beer from South Africa

I had this problem and had to change the lock mechanism which is a complete unit including the c/l actuator, be warned though, this is not a job for the faint hearted. Very restricted access and requires removal of the exterior handle to refit a new mechanism...it was a complete pain to do - Graham from Lancashire

Citroen C3 2006

Hi there, does anyone know what might be wrong? Our Citroen C3 cut out today at a roundabout and had to get towed home. I turn the car on but it won’t start up when you depress the clutch in neutral/start. Disconnect and reconnect the battery and the car starts and revs but the gears do not recognize they are engaged, nor does reverse work. Does anyone know how bad the situation is? (semi automatic)

Answers

Your gearbox oil level is low, that is what I think anyway - Pieter van Staden from South Africa

Citroen C3 2002

The rear washer starts working when the engine is turned off, even with the key removed from the ignition, when the engine is running no problems. The battery has gone flat over the holiday and the car needed bumping, battery fully charged now but could this have been the cause? How can I solve the problem?

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I have the same problem after windscreen smashed. Parked car and locked it and rear wiper stayed on. Unlocked and started it...2-3 times and solved it. But! I came back to unlock for window replacement and everything was dead. Couldn’t unlock the car. Changed key fob battery - nothing. Turned the key in lock but the barrel just rotates. Cannot get into my car to get new window replaced or even to get battery charged up. Help anyone. Any suggestions how to get into my car...slimjim, access to bonnet release catch? Windscreen cannot be replaced without someone inside it! Any help appreciated - Stephen Morris from County Antrim

Citroen C3 2003

I have a Citroen C3 diesel and I am loosing radiator coolant at the rate of about 1-litre a week. I have replaced radiator cap and had the car’s radiator pressure tested and although garage said the radiator is fine it is still leaking. I have now put radiator seal on to try to stop leak. Has anybody any further ideas?

Citroen C3 2006

My display/info panel will not illuminate, it was fine the other day but this morning when I started the engine I got no display. Tried everything. Radio/CD works fine just cant see any info. Any ideas please?

Answers

Hi Rachel, I’m sorry I can’t offer you a solution to your problem but my C3 has just developed the same as yours. Any solutions as yet? Regards - Caroline Walsh from Ireland

Are you sure you do not have the display set to night mode? On my C3 Desire, there is a button on the radio marked Dark and if you press it, it turns off the diplay. If you repeatedly tap the Dark button, my display goes from full on to half on to completely off. I hope that helps - Ronald from England

Citroen C3 2002

The fuel bar on dash of my Citroen C3 keeps flashing with three beeps. It is becoming regular and it is driving me mad. Any ideas as to what the problem could be and how much it would cost to rectify the situation? Please help. (1.4 HDI exclusive)

Citroen C3 2003

I have a question about my C3. It turns the steering wheel to the right and I was told that I have to buy a new steering box. It can not be fixed. Is there someone else with this problem or knows something about it?They are asking for 260,000 euro or 2,189 GBP. Is that a normal price?

Citroen C3 2009

The fuel gauge on my Citroen C3 shows two bars short of the "full" reading, yet the tank is brimming and I can’t get any more petrol in. Is there a known fault with the gauge or a possible air lock blockage?

Answers

David, I had the same problem on my new (58) C3, only registering 7 out of 8 bars when necked full. The dealer adjusted this under warranty to read full on a full tank. A well known problem, regarding the fuel sender unit or software. Definitely a guide line gauge, far from truly accurate - John Jonston from Lancashire

Citroen C3 2002

My C3 is leaking water. When I fill the expansion tank it will stay full for about 5 days then all of a sudden looses about 1 litre. There are no signs of water leaks from engine or hoses. It’s not the heater matrix. There are no signs of water in the oil or visa versa. Any ideas anyone? (1.4 hdi 16v sx)

Answers

1. Water being boiled away, look for a fishy smell around the engine bay, (boiled coolant). 2. Water pump gasket leaking when hot. 3. Small leak from header tank, hoses, radiator or hose joints that only occurs under temperature expansion or increased pressure whilst driving. (no visable trace due to the hot engine block evaporating it). Also look for a white, grey, brown sludge around the water hose retaining clips entering or leaving the engine block, or a streaky powdery deposit running down the block from directly under the hose connections. (water corrosion). 4. Header tank split. 5. Water cooling system not entirely full, so you are gradually filling the system up until it eventually takes no more water and stays in the header tank? (Would normally overheat in this low water condition). The engine being of high compression should run like pants if the head gasket was shot, so rule that one out - John Jonston from Lancashire

Citroen C3 2006

Can anybody tell me what the piston protrusion must be using a 5 notch 1.5mm head gasket. On a Citroen C3 HI 1.4 turbo diesel engine? (HDi 1.4)

Citroen C3 2008

When I steer and the car is moving slowly eg round a corner or reversing I regularly hear a creaking noise. It’s under warranty and I have taken back the garage and they say they can find nothing. The noise really goes through me, what can it be? (Cool)

Answers

It could be a CV (constant velocity) joint is failing or your suspension rubbers are failing - Colin Sargeant from South Africa

Top bearings on your front struts! They dry out and are impossible to lubricate properly. Squirt of WD40 will help for a while but they really need replacing - John Warriner from England

Citroen C3 2005

Can anyone help? The engine light has been on for a few weeks but the car worked fine until last week, when it just stalled and had no power. I had new coil done but no change, it’s had engine cleaner in it as well. I’ve now been told it could be the EGR valve or injector 4. Anyone else had this problem?

Answers

I had similar problem two years ago, did the test with the engine management reader plugged in, said no 4 cylinder no power, found it was a faulty injector, changed the injector to number 3 cylinder, checked the engine management and the fault had changed to no 3 so it required a new injector, car runs again perfectly - Richard Perks from England

Citroen C3 2002

There is a "no coil" light coming up on the dashboard of my Citroen C3. Does anyone know what this means?

Citroen C3 2003

Hello. I was driving my Citroen C3 automatic 1.6, stopped at the lights but when I went to take off 2 indicator lights came up, the spanner and the star. Also the car wouldn’t select a gear. Can anyone tell me what these symbols mean and also what I should do next?

Citroen C3 2002

I was thinking of buying a C3 1.4 lx but after reading the various reviews and this column I will stick with my very reliable albeit ageing Citroen 2CV - starts first time everytime, fun to drive, funky looks and practical! I will stop searching for a replacement. (1.4lx)

Citroen C3 2003

When my Citroen C3 gets up to temperature after about 10 minutes driving the car starts to misfire and cuts out when I come to a standstill. From cold there is no problem. I have changed the spark plugs and the coil pack - can anyone offer any advice?

Answers

Injector fault or seal or EGR valve - John Jonston from Lancashire

Citroen C3 2007

After a long run the car stops. It is an automatic and it seems to be a gearbox problem. Any clues?

Citroen C3 2004

My windscreen has ’marks’ on it but I cannot get them cleaned off. They are mainly at the bottom of the windscreen, but they seem to be ’in the glass’? They are not on the outside of the screen or on the inside. I noticed them a couple of months ago and have tried to wipe them off but it’s impossible. Do you know if it’s a type of mould? Damp does appear at the base of the windscreen regularly but I am still very puzzled by it.

Answers

Hi, your windscreen is made up of a laminate of two pieces of glass, with a thin layer of plastic in between. The marks you are seeing are water ingress in between these layers, also called delamination. The only cure is a new one - Dam from England

Citroen C3 2008

My Citroen C3 engine will not start in the morning. After working priming pump to expel air, engine will start and run normally until next morning when same thing happens. Any ideas anyone? (1.4 hdi)

Answers

Try bleeding the fuel filter water trap of water, it tells how in the manual, probably due to very wet, cold and icy weather... - John Jonston from Lancashire

Citroen C3 2003

I have no power when the ignition is turned on my Citroen C3. There is no radio or internal light power but it does have cigarette socket power and central door light flashing. Any ideas anyone?

Citroen C3 2004

I have traded my people carrier in for a little C3 Desire. I have had it 2 days! I read through the car guide but it doesn’t tell me WHY it occasionally beeps 3 times when I start the car!!! It’s under warranty but I don’t want to take it back and end up looking silly when told it’s nothing!! So any clues?

Answers

Seat belt warning? - Peter Stewart from Hampshire

Citroen C3 2006

The fuel tank on my Citroen C3 has a crack in it... how common is this with these types of cars?

Citroen C3 2003

My Citroen C3 unlocks itself over night, when it’s parked up. Has anyone else experienced this? And knows of a solution? Thanks.

Answers

If one of the doors isn’t shut properly, it will clunk twice when you press the remote central locking and not lock properly. I have a problem where the front passenger door does not lock. I thought it was me going mad, or the car unlocking itself overnight but turns out it’s just this one door. Is your problem related to all the doors or just one? - Peter from Wrexham

Citroen C3 2003

My Citroen C3 diesel (8 years old) stopped suddenly while driving and would not start again. This has happened many times and usually when I tow it to the mechanic it just starts. It feels like some sort of fuel starvation - so could be a blockage or some valve closing... Can anyone help please?

Citroen C3 2004

I have been told that the whole exhaust system needs to be changed on my Citroen C3 rather than just the box bit on the end. Is this right or am I just being taken advantage of? Also does anyone have any idea how much this should cost?

Answers

Sophie, you’ve probably sorted this now, but on that year, it’s a complete welded length from Mid section to the Back Box, only the front down pipe with the most expensive catalytic converter is separate. So if either the Back Box or Mid fails then it’s a complete exhaust length from Mid to Rear - John Jonston from Lancashire

Yes it is, I had to change mine only last week. If the exuast hasn’t been changed since the factory you need to replace the mid section and the back box. It cost me £100 - Terry Finnigan from Durham

Citroen C3 2006

I wasjust driving my Citroen C3 down the road and "electrical fault" came up on display, then the battery light came on. I got home and turned the car off and now it won’t start. It will turn over once then cuts out. I checked all fuses - OK. I swapped battery, also OK. It did start once and all sorts of faults were coming up, strange as no problem before then. Now I’m stressing out - can anyone help?

Answers

Hi, you probably fixed this by now but I just recently had same problem. Turned out it was the ortinator as it wasn’t keeping battery charging while driving therefore running off battery only. Hope that helps - Becca from Carmarthenshire

Citroen C3 2004

I have a Citroen C3. Please could someone tell me how much (approximately) I should expect to pay for a coil spring to be fitted on my driver front wheel? (Have been told I probably need both doing at the same time, if one has broken). Don’t want to be taken advantage of being a female! Many thanks in advance.

Answers

Around £70, depending on where you live and which garage. Mine was done at a local garage within the hour - Chris from Staffordshire

Mine cost around about £100. If you go to a dealer, it will cost a lot more - Kev Ash from Leicestershire

There’s a recall from Citroen for coil springs braking on C3s. Check VOSA, should cost you nothing but a trip to the dealers - John Jonston from Lancashire

Citroen C3 2003

Please can anyone tell why my Citroen C3 won’t turn over? I’m trying to start it but there is nothing at all. Thank you.

Answers

Have you tried replacing the battery so you can get a totally new fault now the car has power? - Ian from Yorkshire

Citroen C3 2005

When I start my 1.4-litre Citroen C3 HDi in the morning, there is a hiss hiss hiss sound like the exhaust is leaking. Once the car engine is heated up the sound is not so loud but it is still there. Anyone have an idea of what it may be?

Answers

Injector seal or seals are on the way out, you can buy all 4 and a sensor for about £11 I’m going to try fitting mine tomorrow, I will update you after - Richard Brooks from Suffolk

Mine has a torn turbo pipe that is causing a hiss. Replacement cost in South Africa R400 (£35) - Dino from South Africa

Citroen C3 2000

On a Citroen C3, can the fan belt cause damage when it breaks?

Answers

Citroen C3 is not a 2000 model, they were produced from 2002 on. If the ’fan belt’ - it’s not a fan belt any more as they have electric fans - breaks then you no longer will be charging the battery with the engine running (running the battery flat can damage the battery), you will also loose air conditioning (if fitted). citroenC3owners.com - Citroen C3 from England

Citroen C3 2006

Does anyone know if 2006 Citroen C3 has a timing belt?

Answers

Yes, referred to as a ’serpentine belt’, it needs changing at around 75,000 miles - John Jonston from Lancashire

Citroen C3 2003

I have difficulty selecting reverse gear on my Citroen C3 and when in reverse it keeps jumping out of gear - has anyone else experienced this and can anyone offer any advice?

Answers

Linkage cables 100%. They stretch all the time - Harry from England

My wife has been complaining of the same. First time engaging reverse on a cold engine results in a gentle jump out again. Taking it in on Wednesday - Keith Foster from Powys

Citroen C3 2002

I have problem with a build up off oil in mass sensor. I have a Citroen C3 1400 diesel turbo SE, 52 plate. I noticed the car was sluggish and not idling right and when I checked the fault was at mass sensor. When I took it off it was covered in oil inside, and all in air flow pipe. Does anybody have any ideas?

Citroen C3 2003

Hi, me again. I took the car back to garage, they had it for three days but I needed to take it back so now they tell me without looking at it futher they think its the EUC but are not sure. They charged me again and would not give keys back until I paid. The car is in another garage and can not be driven, it smells like rotten eggs and can not even get power to it. So, 590 euros later I have a car that went in OK only for a light and now nothing. I would really like some help on this, thanks in advance .

Answers

Eggs you smell? Well that would be the Catalytic Converter knackered, the first part of the exhaust system that controls polution levels and will effect the immision readings that the Lamba sensor sends to the ECU, which inturn controls the running of the car. Need a new Catalytic Converter! - John Jonston from Lancashire

Citroen C3 2002

The fuel bar on the dash of my Citroen C3 1.4 HDi Exclusive will flash on and off - is this down to the fuel filter not being drained or is it something to do with the fuel system itself? If it is the fuel filter - how do I go about draining it? Thanks in advance.

Citroen C3 2004

The air conditioning in my Citroen C3 is making clicking noises - has anybody else experienced anything similar?

Citroen C3 2003

My Citroen C3 computer is showing a problem with the oxygen sensor. I have had this fixed but the light is still showing on the dash - can anyone advise or help? Thank you.

Answers

There’s two on a C3, one at the top of the CAT and one on the down pipe, maybe they’ve replaced the wrong sensor? - John Jonston from Lancashire

Citroen C3 2002

I have recently bought my C3 without any history or manual. All of the dashboard makes complete sense to me except for a button which looks like a speedo with a radar type logo next to it. Does anyone know what this does? It doesn’t operate when car is at a stand still so I thought it may be some type of speed limiter but can’t be sure.

Answers

This is the overspeed warning. You long press this button when you get to your desired speed and get a buzz and a warning light comes on. Then whenever you go over your chosen speed you get an alarm. A cheap ineffective sort of cruise control which I only used once when we got the car! - Trevor from Surrey

Citroen C3 2004

I cannot get the rear wiper to switch off by the switch on the control stick, even when the cars engine is off and the keys removed from the ignition the rear wiper still works for 2-3 minutes after. There is a lot of clicking going on in the glove box fusebox that never used to happen. I think there must be a relay or timer switch but I have no idea how to fix or replace.

Answers

I had this problem and after sweating about a new wiper motor or similar, I just changed the fuse in the fusebox that sits within the glovebox. The replacement fuse did the trick and after a few days, the rear wiper worked as normal - Will Hirst from England

Citroen C3 2005

How can you tell if your driveshaft is going? My car is making this grinding kind of noise whilst driving along but goes off when you put your foot down on the clutch. Any ideas please?

Answers

Sorry mate, this sounds more like a gearbox problem especially if it stops when engine is disengaged by pushing the clutch in - Jo Jones from England

I had this exact problem and it was the clutch thrust bearing and fork that had worn out. New clutch comes with the bearing, and the clutch fork was actually scraping on the flywheel, so I had to have it machined. Cost £350 in total - Mike from Essex

Citroen C3 2002

What alternative wheels will fit a C3?

Citroen C3 2003

There is a high pitch coming from a back wheel. Any idea? (Desire)

Answers

Good possibility it’s a wheel bearing - Don Proudlock from Staffordshire

Citroen C3 2003

Hi I have an automatic C3, just recently I can be driving along the road pull up at traffic lights or a junction and the car just stalls/dies. I have to turn off everything put in park and start again, any ideas?

Answers

I have had this problem where the car suddenly dies and then starts after towing to mechanic. Fault reappears sometimes after a year. My mechanic told me to use fuel system cleaner with diesel once a year. Could also be some kind of blockage in fuel system. I had the problem last week but the car started at the mechanic’s, then stopped again yesterday. Until now, I don’t have a solution - Chris Bugeja from Malta

Citroen C3 2003

How do I test the cooling fan to see if it works?

Citroen C3 2004

Just had a new exhaust, then found that when I drive for about 10/15 minutes warming the engine a screech occurs intermittently, normally when I load the engine around 2k reves. The sound is similar to a slipping belt, I’ve checked that hot and cold and there is little if any flex in that belt at all. I noted that when its warm(ish) and dry, the screech is more frequent. Once I’m over the 2k revs and moving in to 3rd, 4th and 5th, the sound is rare. I’ve taken it to a dealer, had the ceremonial short intake of breath and a few tuts to make for dramatic effect but none can explain the sound. I’ve had new timing belt, new tensioner, new water pump since the sound started so happy its not that area. I’ve noted if the sound happens and I dip the clutch - sound goes. I can rev the life out of the car and nothing but once in gear its there again and still intermittent. (Desire)

Answers

Just to answer my own question and put up what seems to be a common issue, - I took the car to a tyre and exhaust company in Merthyr (not a multi national I add) The fitter heard the screech and just said "Up on the ramps please". He walked underneath, straight to the section where the new exhaust meets the branch manifold cone and with the engine running, reved the car; there was the screech. It appears that sometimes when the exhaust is changed there is a bracket on the section that meets the manifold cone. He placed a spanner in the gap, reved the car and no noise - removed spanner and reved again; screech. He did that 4 times each time it was clear that the bracket was the issue. He explained he’d had a Saxo in with a worrying screech and had the owner crying over 5 springs sets purchased and fitted by a Citroen dealer. The guy went to them for a type and came away screechless followiing £10 worth of welding. Makes you think, eh? - Garry J from Gloucestershire

I also have a 2004 C3 Desire and it started making the same sounds a few months ago. I have found it’s fine doing normal town driving but if I go to our nearest large town 27 miles away, I can drive there and most of the way back before the screeching starts, the car has done 38,000 miles, it’s due for a service in about 6 weeks - David Hughes from Cumberland

Sounds like one of two things. It may be the welding has snapped on the cone end of the exhaust. A real good warm-up and up on the ramps. When it’s there, get them to check the spring bolts that tie to the cone from the manifold to the exhaust are not breaking or loose. It seems this can give a similar effect to mine - Garry J from Cardiff

Citroen C3 2004

I am having problems with flashing sport and snowflake lights on my dash simultaneously. When this happened today, the car would not go into semi auto mode and was stuck in automatic. I switched the car and the lights went when I switched it back on but am now stuck with an electrical humming sound coming from the front of the car. Any ideas what this could be? Thanks.

Citroen C3 2006

Hi, can someone please tell me how to change the left bright bulb. Do I have to take out the whole headlamp?

Answers

Hi, if you mean the dipped headlight bulb then it can be done but it is a fiddly job and the smaller your hands, the easier it is. The first time I did mine (and they do go reguarly on my desire!) it took me 20mins, they are not the easiest of bulbs to change. If it’s the battery side ie:nearside, then removing the two part battery cover helps. It’s not that you can’t get to it, you can, it’s that your hands ideally need to be small. Remove the large plastic cover by pushing down the large spring type clip and remove this cover. The cable to the bulb is a push/pull fit connector and should be held by the plastic block and pulled and not by the wires going to it, it goes back one way only. There is a spring clip that is at the top of the bulb holder inside the headlamp (feel around this clip for a few seconds to find out how it moves), you need to squeeze at the same time as pushing this forwards a little and then keeping pressure on it ease it sideways and it will drop open/down but not fall off, take the bulb out noting that it is flat at the top (a good tip is to use a compact mirror and a torch to look inside the headlight/bulb area to see how things work in there, it will help you understand how the clip idea works). Remember, don’t touch the glass of the new bulb when you replace it as grease from your hands (however clean they are) will shorten the bulb’s life. Refitting is in reverse of dismantling. Good luck. Hope this helps - Paul Miles from Essex

Citroen C3 2006

My 2006 C3 desire 1.4 Hdi has recently developed the following fault. The dash says "LH brake light faulty" or "front sidelight faulty" when they are fine. The beep seems to happen more frequently when I am indicating left! The "Serv" light also comes on for about 10 seconds too but then resets itself. Guessing it may be an earth fault, where are the earthing points for this side of the electrics. Anyone? Failing that, anyone know of a good auto electrician in Essex! Thanks in advance, Paul M.

Answers

Paul, did you ever find a fix for this fault? I am having all the same problems with my C3 Desire - Colin from Scotland

Hi Colin from Scotland. Yes, I did manage to fix this problem. It was the earth(s) in the boot. I found that when you removed the earth wire connections where they fix in the boot, you may find like me that the earth wires have been secured directly to the body work after they have sprayed the car. I removed the earth wires, scraped off the paint where the earth wires touch the bodywork, smear a little bit of vaseline and then re-secure. To get at the earth wires, open the boot, remove the carpet covering the spare tyre then remove the plastic trim that runs across the edge of the bottom of the boot (it’s held in by torx screws), then remove the boot door rubber at the bottom, then the flexible black vertical panels inside that are left (one with the courtesy light on) and right can be eased enough from the bottom to see the earth wire connections, scrape off the paint after undoing them and see if that fixes it. It did for me. Regards - Paul Miles from Essex

Also try removing the offending rear light cluster and detatch the multiplug from the rear. Then spray both, contacts and plug with WD40, that should do the trick. Purely down to bad connections through contact water corrosion - John Jonston from Lancashire

Citroen C3 2004

How do you know when a water pump on a C3 has gone? (hdi)

Citroen C3 2003

When I started the car, it said ’remote control battery low’ Is it possible to change this battery myself? I can open the key up but the battery looks to be in very firmly with clips.

Answers

It just slides out. Unfortunately, I find that they need replacing fairly often. I bought a 5-pack off eBay and they are very good - Bob from Hampshire

Citroen C3 2004

The seatbelt, airbag and EMS warning light remain on all the time. On initial start-upm, there are three short alarm sounds, the car starts and runs fine. Any ideas? (desire)

Citroen C3 2006

Where do I find the colour code number?

Citroen C3 2003

Hi, there is a little lateral and horizontal play in the steering wheel on my 2003 Citroen C3. I have confirmed that there is no play in the steering shaft. Can anyone tell me how to remove the plastic cover (without breaking it :-)) to tighten the steering wheel? Thanks, Niall. (hatchback)

Answers

Unlock the adjustable steering and pull forward to get clearance then lock and locate two or three deep inset star head screws under the steering column plastic cowl. Remove screws and separate the two halves with some determined manipulation around the ignition barrel. Don’t lose and make note of the metal clip position that retains the flexible rubber section on the top part of the cowl, this only clips into place and retains the rubber cover in position under the speedo display when you extend the steering column fully - John Jonston from Lancashire

Citroen C3 2011

I have just purchased the new Citroen C3. It does not have myway satnav but has a usb port. Can you tell me what kind of usb stick to get so I can play music on my radio?

Answers

Any MP3 file will do, any size works - Terry from England

Citroen C3 2007

My lights keep flickering on and off whilst I’m driving. Any idea why? (cool)

Answers

Probably the comm2000 - the indicator / lights stalk needs replacing - Bill P from England

Check with your local dealer. There is a recall out for an ECU update. We have a 57 plate C3 1.4Hdi, it kept loosing the lights and blowing headlamp bulbs. I started checking all connections, switch contacts etc. The next day, a letter arrived from Citroen asking us to book into a dealership as the car needed the update doing to the ECU to fix this problem. They collected it, fixed the problem and delivered it back. It’s worth checking, ours was frightening my wife when the lights went off! Hope it works for you. Regards - Chris Hall from Yorkshire

Citroen C3 2008

The spanner light has just come on the dashboard so I have phoned Citroen and they said I am due for my 40,000 mile major service. Can anyone tell me what this entails and can I go anywhere if I have no warranty?

Answers

Just had my 40k service. I looked in the handbook which should be under the driver’s seat in a slide draw. There are loads of checks and changes if you go to the dealers. I went to a local garage and I was charged around £350.00. That was a full coolant change, oil filter and at 40k miles, the C3 has to have its timing belt changed. This is the heavy cost and I advise it is done. Mine looked okay but with further investigation, we found some cracking in the teeth. If that goes, it can cause major engine damage. In my cost, I had the water pump checked as well and it was starting to sieze up, not a lot but would go requiring similar work as the timing belts attached to it as well. When I went to the dealer, they started bidding at £500 for the job - Garry J from Cardiff

40,000 mile service (second service) £267.00 with dealer, should be a lot less private (use genuine parts to retain warranty). Oil (1st and 2nd service) oil filter (1st and 2nd service) air filter (2nd service) spark plugs (2nd service) partical filter (1st and 2nd service) fuel filter (2nd service) oil sump plug and washer (1st and 2nd service). Also dealer recommended at an additional cost of about £25.00, brake fluid change but they always recommend a brake fluid change on this service (optional I’d say?). And the usual visual checks, brakes, steering etc. And service spanner reset. Quite funny really because I’d call this an old school standard service not a big one, pay more for less these day’s. 3rd service is supposingly the same has the 1st service. No cam belt on 2nd service that’s at 75,000 miles - John Jonston from Lancashire

Citroen C3 2005

My blower is on permanently. Please help.

Citroen C3 2004

I have a Citroen C3 Desire and when it gets to around about 50 to 60 miles, my petrol light comes on so I never know when to top up. Please can somebody help?

Citroen C3 2004

I have a Citroen C3 Desire and when it gets to around about 50-60 miles, my petrol light comes on. I never know when to top up. Please can somebody help?

Citroen C3 2007

The info panel keeps showing side lamp fault but all the lamps work fine. Why is this?

Answers

Most Citroen vehicles have this fault, check the multiplug that clips into both rear lights, you will find that one of the earth wires are starting to melt. Run a new earth directly to the the light cluster bypassing the multiplug - Stephen Moore from Rhondda Cynon Taff

Citroen C3 2006

I have a Citroen C3 Cool - ’57 plate. My vehicle has developed a loud whining sound from the rear left or right or both wheels which stops when you lightly press the footbrake. This noise is intermittant, it comes and goes. The car has been in the garage and had the rear brakes checked but nothing untoward found. Can you help please? The sound is driving my wife and I to distraction. Thank you.

Answers

Mine has been doing the same thing. Have you found any cause as yet for this? - Rosie Spackman from England

Citroen C3 2002

My C3 keeps bleeping three times every time I take off. Any ideas?

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Our 2004 C3 keeps bleeping three times. It’s driving us mad. Help here too would be appreciated. Posted this problem in the Citroen Owners Club Forum, had a couple of responses, but no cure yet - Alan from Cornwall

I had this problem when I first got my C3. It turned out to be the handbrake warning. Try fully releasing the lever before moving off - Tony Garwood from Kent

The three beeps warn you of/remind you to do something. It could one one of several things. The ones I know about are the door not being shut and the seatbelt not plugged in. Both have to be done before starting the ignition or it will beep - Peter from Wrexham

Hi there, mine does it too! I have narrowed it down to either the handbrake is not quite in the right place or it’s that the car is too cold. As for the handbrake situation, I have tried turning car on several times with the handbrake in different positions and sometimes it beeps three times and sometimes it doesn’t! And it doesn’t seem to do it when the car has been for a run. If you find out, can you let me know? - Vanessa from Norfolk

Citroen C3 2003

The oil light is flashing and beeping when slowing down but when I check the oil is full. Any suggestions?

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Check the oil switch sensor - Nick from Cumberland

Citroen C3 2003

I have had this C3 1.4HDi Exclusive for 7 years, serviced regularly but recently it has given horrendous starting problems. It takes at least two attempts minimum to start and when it eventually does. plumes of light blue smoke come from the exhaust. It never starts first time and can sometime take up to five attempts. Once started and the smoke has dispersed after reving slightly, the car runs smoothly. What is the problem? Variant: HDi 1.4 Exclusive. Year Of Make: 2003

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I had exactly the same fault on our 2003 C3 hdi. I eventually took it to a diesel injection specialist and the fault was with two delphi diesel injectors and a throttle position switch/potentiometer. It cost a nice £750 so hope it’s not as bad as ours - Barry Hawkins from Bridgend

Citroen C3 2006

The ABS is defective on the indicator. Any help?

Citroen C3 2003

Hi I have just tried to pull away from a parking space and not been able to turn the wheel its so stiff. I tried a couple of times before it eased enough to drive away, I was on a pay meter. I have got it home but it’s not right. It’s hard to drive and very stiff, what’s wrong with it? There is no warning light on the dashboard. Help!

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Hi. Got the same problem with a 2002 C3 1.4hdi. I’m pretty sure it’s the electric steering not working. These cars have electric assisted steering rather than the more traditional power steering. It has happened once before, it was straight after the cambelt was changed, but it rectified itself the next time the car was started. This time it has coincided with the starter motor playing up. I’m wondering if it’s got something to do with low battery power. Once my starter motor is replaced, I will give my battery a good charge, maybe you could try this? Cheers for now - MC from England

Hi Samantha, the same thing happened to my 2002 Xsara. It turned out to be the power steering pump. Quite easy to replace. Hope this helps - Terry Goldsmith from Norfolk

I had a similar problem recently. It was the CV joint at the bottom of the steering column that had started to seize up. It’s common apparently - John Gillan from Scotland

Hi, I had the same problem a few weeks ago in my Citroen Picasso Xsara 2000. It turned out the air intake in the engine had a slight burst in the hose, my steering wasn’t right. The steering was completely heavy and hard to handle. The power wasn’t good and had to put my foot to floor to get home. You could get someone to check that out - Gayle A from Dorset

Try turning the key in the ignition on and off three times, it resets the electric power steering - Wayne Evans from Caerphilly

This type of thing has happened a couple of times to my C3 HDI. Yes it has electric power steering powered by the alternator. If the alternator was to start to fail, one of the first things to go is the PAS. The most recent PAS failing on my car, was when I serviced the car only to find on starting the engine, no power steering. Did the usual switch off and on again (like resetting your computer) but didn’t work. Try disconnecting the battery for 30 seconds or so, reconnect battery, then trying the PAS again - Ged Terry from Durham 

Citroen C3 2005

My heater won’t switch off all the time. What’s the problem and how do I fix this?

Citroen C3 2003

Some mornings my C3 will not start. When this happens the bottom temp light is on, the engine turns over but will not start. Sometimes whilst driving, I hear the three warning beeps, the rev counter drops to zero, the speedometer goes to zero and the bottom temp light comes on no matter how many lights were on before the beeps. On a few occasions, the power steering and heaters have cut out at the same time. This is a really annoying problem as it only seems to happen when I need to go to work in the early hours.

Citroen C3 2007

My front break calipers are vibrating. Is it the bolt wearing, the caliper wearing or the frame or all of these. The vibrating occurs between 25-35 mph when going through the gears. Does anything need to be replaced? Many thanks, Dave Bullock. (c3 desire)

Citroen C3 2004

Please could anyone tell me if it is possible to change the head gasket at home without having to take it to garage? Are there any special tools required? I wouldn’t want to strip it down to find halfway through that I can not complete the job. Many Thanks.

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Yes you do to lock off the timing and maybe to undo the cylinder bolts. I own a garage and would never do a head gasket without shelter and a 4 post lift as this allows you to access the car with some height. Also you need lots of time and experience. Hope this helps - Regan from Kent

Citroen C3 2003

I have just bought an 03 plate C3. When starting off in first gear, it beeps three times every time! Any ideas why?

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The overspeed alert setting might be on. You need to turn it off - Emmanuel J from Buckinghamshire

It usually means you don’t have your seatbelt on or there is a door open - Steph from England

Maybe your handbrake is not fully released - Clare Nicholls from Devon

Hi, my wife has a 2002 C3 Hdi and we had the same problem...three beeps but as usual no information given on the dash (not very intelligent of Citroen to worry driver with no explanation). Anyway it was the radiator over heating and the water level boiling away. Electrics yet again, not the good old fashion simple ’replace the thermostat’ but had to go to Citroen to plug in and reset! Hope this helps - Stephen Morris from County Antrim

Citroen C3 2007

My indicators have stopped making that ’clicking ’sound when they are on and I no longer receive a warning ’beep’ if I try to leave my car with the headlights left on. Any advice welcome. Many thanks.

Citroen C3 2005

My headlights are making a funny noise. Every time I switch them on, they make a high pitched squeaking noise and does it when I’m driving. The noise can last between 2-5 seconds. It’s only when the lights are on though. Has anyone got any ideas as to what it could be and has anyone had the same problem?

Citroen C3 2006

Hi. How do I wire a water temperature gauge to my Citroen C3? (Desire)

Citroen C3 2004

Car starts beeping every 3 to 5 seconds when I do over 35mph but no lights appear on the dashboard. Could anyone help please, thank you.

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On the C3, there is a speed warning button that can be set by the driver. It is located to the left of the sterring wheel (you may also have a centalised child lock above it, not sure). To cancel this, just push the button. If you wish to reset the speed warning when traveling at the desired speed, press the button and it will beep, then as you hit or exceed that speed, you get an audible warning (great for the speed cameras) - Gareth Jones from Gloucestershire

Citroen C3 2003

Where is the oil pressure switch and is it easily accessible for a DIY mechanic to change?

Citroen C3 2005

When I start the car, the top light of the temperature gauge flashes and beeps for a few seconds then stops but does it again after a few mins until the temperature gauge starts to rise. Does anyone have any ideas as to why this may be? (1.4 hdi)

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Coolant level low - P from Yorkshire

Citroen C3 2003

Where is the oil filter on the Citroen C3 and how do I change it?

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It’s a small canister looking object with a hexagonal top for a spanner or socket. It is positioned at the bottom front end of the engine near the clutch arm. Drain the engine oil and unscrew the top of the canister, remove the old filter and insert a new filter and re-tighten. Re-fill the engine with new oil - John Jonston from Lancashire

Citroen C3 2005

How can I prevent the headlamps from blowing every two months or so?

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Check with dealer for software upgrade, apparently this is common. Lights turn off intermittantly too. Hope this helps. Regards - Chris Hall from Yorkshire

Citroen C3 2003

How do I remove the gear selector cables from the gearbox?

Citroen C3 2004

How many miles should I get out of the fuel tank of a Citroen C3 1.4 hdi? I have only just got the car I don’t think the fuel gauge is working very well... Can anyone help? (Exclusive)

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Probably around 500-550 miles depending on whether you’re urban or rural driving. ie long motorway trips steady 60-65mph - Snook G from England

I’ve got this car and I average about 620 miles per tank, I love it - Richard Brooks from Suffolk

Citroen C3 2010

I’ve recently installed a USB box in my new C3. It’s says that the USB box works perfectly with my navigation system. But, instead of showing the USB menu and info of the files it shows only 6 CDs and up to 77 files without info. But there is more than 6 maps on the usb stick. So is there anything I can do or do I have to take my car back to mechanic garage? Thank you.

Citroen C3 2006

The fuse keeps going on the starter motor - anybody any ideas why this may be happening? (automatic)

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Hi, my wife;s c3 has the same problem, the starter fuse keeps blowing. Have you sorted it out yet? If yes could you advise me please? Darryl Hayfield from Shropshire

Citroen C3 2004

I have a C3 but the brake pedal will not depress for it to start. Does anybody know why?

Citroen C3 2003

I have just got this car and I am not used to the bars system for the petrol. My question is, when it’s on the last bar does that turn red before it runs out. This is just for future reference. Thanks to anyone who answers.

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No, it doesn’t turn red, but the petrol light will come on, slightly to the left of the guage and it will beep at you when the light comes on - Tasha Wickens from Hampshire

Citroen C3 2005

There is a bleep noise coming from dash now and again, no other warning lights. This happens when the weather is frosty. Can anyone please help?

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It is warning of the possibility of ice on the road. The outside temperature is or below 3 degrees C - Andy Sutton from Shropshire

Citroen C3 2003

My car keeps overheating but it’s got water in?? I don’t understand this - can anyoone explain this to me?

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Just had my thermometer checked. The fitter said they sometimes just jam especially on 6+ year old cars. When they do, the waters not moving through the system and the water basically boils. Worth a check on that first - Gareth J from Gloucestershire

Citroen C3 2005

Whilst driving my car had a sudden jerk reaction, beeped and what appears to look like an engine sign lit up on the dashboard. It disappeared after a few minutes, what could it be?

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Right this is simple - either there is water on your injectors or one of your fuel injectors is on the way out - to fix it; get it to a non-dealership garage (to save on the cost) and get an engine diagnostics test done a.s.a.p. - the sooner the better cause the longer you wait, the worse it’ll get and subsequently the more expensive it will be in the end - Ian from Yorkshire

Citroen C3 2005

I have a popping noise coming from the exhaust - can anyone offer any advice? (Desire)

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Had this issue in September 2011 along with many others. If you place your hand on the exhaust end, you’ll feel that the pressure pushing you off is low and you’ll hear the popping even more. The backend box frequently rusts through directly under the body of the car out site. A replacement is about £150 and needs the whole lot changed right up to the manifold joint (under the engine). Seems you cannot get just a section replaced - Gareth J from Gloucestershire

Citroen C3 2000

The car gave a quick jerk and the engine light flashed on but immediately went off again and the car continued on the journey, and this happened a few minutes later again! Any ideas/suggestions?

Citroen C3 2005

Hi - my Citreon C3 makes a whistling noise when the engine is running and a grinding noise when the clutch is lifted slowly. Have you any idea what the problem could be?

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When I was a mechanic many years ago! this problem was always the clutch realease bearing worn out through lack of grease! The only cure is a new bearing and I would have a new clutch disc and pressure plate changed at same time as you have already paid for strip down! Keith Riding from Yorkshire

Citroen C3 2005

I have condensation inside the headlights. Is this a common fault?

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Yes! The seal on the back of the headlight cover fails if not seated properly and lets cold air and water into the headlight, make sure it’s seated properly and it should dry out, failing that apply some vaseline around the seal and groove and re-position for a semi-permament cure - John Jonston from Lancashire