Is the Citroen C5 a good car?

I am interested in buying a Citroen C5. Are they a good car and are they heavy on diesel? Is there anything in particular that I should be aware of?

Thanks.

Patrick Collins (Killarney)

May 2013 Filed under: choosing used car

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Expert answer

Hi Patrick,

I've always had a bit of a soft-spot for the current C5. No, it's not as sharp to drive as a Mondeo or Passat, but it's a lovely, comfy car with tremendous long-haul refinement. Pick of the bunch is the 1.6 HDi diesel model and you should get an easy 50mpg out of it.

As for faults, check for a chuffing sound from the engine when it's running, as that could indicate that the fuel injectors are in need of replacing. Make sure it's had a cambelt change and watch for diesel particulate filter warning lights, which indicate that it needs a good long run at high engine speed to burn the collected diesel soot out of the filter. Suspension problems are quite common - usually worn ball-joints or bushes. Other than that, they're pretty solid.

Neil Briscoe - Complete Car Adviser
@neilmbriscoe