Citroen C3 reliability

On affected vehicles there is a risk of the brake bar welding breaking leading to a complete loss of braking.

Fix: Currently there is no determined remedy. You are advised not to drive the vehicle. The repairer will arrange a replacement mobility solution.

Recalled models: C3 AIRCROSS · 263 vehicles

Vehicles may be affected by incorrect performance of the On-Board-Diagnostics related to Selective Catalytic Reduction system and/or Diesel Particle Filter. The Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL) may not illuminate in the event of a malfunction and therefore does not comply with emission regulations.

Fix: Update the Engine Control Unit software to ensure compliance to regulations.

Recalled models: C3 · 50 vehicles

On affected vehicles there there may be loose connections between a high-pressure fuel pipe and the engine fuel rail which potentially could lead to a leak and risk of fire.

Fix: Retighten the affected connections.

Recalled models: C3 · 1,002 vehicles

Vehicles may be affected by premature wearing of the camshaft drive chain leading to abnormal noise or to a breakage of the chain in the worst case.

Fix: Update the software to improve oil pressure and reduce wear. Check the engine noise and replace the chain if required. If no problem found change the oil to one with higher viscosity and special anti-wear additives.

Recalled models: C3 V4 · 852 vehicles

Affected vehicles may face a front seat belt pretensioner malfunction in the event of a crash due to the inversion of command wires in the Airbag ECU connector.

Fix: Replace the affected PINS in the airbag ECU connector.

Recalled models: C3 · 531 vehicles

On affected vehicles the chemicals in the Takata airbags may deteriorate over time which may cause the inflator to rupture and lead to serious injury.

Fix: Owners of affected vehicles should immediately cease using their vehicle when safe to do so until the recall action has been completed. Affected vehicles will have the airbag modules replaced.

Recalled models: C3 · 55,166 vehicles

On affected vehicles the engine is at risk of becoming damaged because of an inadequate oil supply from an oil jet cooling nozzle.

Fix: Replace the engine oil and filter.

Recalled models: C3 · 10,574 vehicles

On affected vehicles the Engine Control Unit (ECU) software is not according to specification.

Fix: Upload modified software to the ECU.

Recalled models: C3 AIRCROSS · 160 vehicles

On affected vehicles the chemicals in the Takata airbags may deteriorate over time which may cause the inflator to rupture and lead to serious injury.

Fix: Exchange affected airbag modules as a precautionary measure.

Recalled models: C3 · 21 vehicles

On affected vehicles below 12500 miles under certain conditions engine emissions may lead to a non-compliance to regulatory requirements.

Fix: Check the mileage of the vehicle and update the ECU (Engine Control Unit) calibration on vehicles below 12500 miles.

Recalled models: C3 · 569 vehicles

On affected vehicles the fuel tank is not to specification due to a deviation in the manufacturing process which could lead to a potential risk of fuel seepage.

Fix: Replace fuel tank.

Recalled models: C3 · 17 vehicles

Affected vehicles may have been fitted with a rear axle crossmember that was not manufactured according to specifications.

Fix: Check and replace the rear axle crossmember if necessary.

Recalled models: C3 · 372 vehicles

On the affected vehicles the operation of the brake vacuum pump may be affected by material detaching from the timing belt caused by the ageing of the engine oil.

Fix: To rectify this issue a software update will be downloaded which will improve the vacuum diagnosis (in order to warn earlier about the risk of loss or reduction of braking assistance). The timing belt will be checked and if needed replaced with other components of the braking assistance system and the vacuum pump.

Recalled models: C3 AIRCROSS v2 · 652 vehicles

On the affected vehicles the operation of the brake vacuum pump may be affected by material detaching from the timing belt caused by the ageing of the engine oil.

Fix: To rectify this issue a software update will be downloaded which will improve the vacuum diagnosis (in order to warn earlier about the risk of loss or reduction of braking assistance).

Recalled models: C3 V4 · 13,740 vehicles

Vehicles may have an incorrect tightening torque on several rear axle component fixings.

Fix: Check and retighten all fixings to the correct torque settings.

Recalled models: C3 V4 · 1 vehicles

The right-hand side drive shaft outer joint may break due to incorrect hardening of the joint pinion during manufacturing.

Fix: Check and if necessary replace the right-hand side driveshaft depending on the production time stamp.

Recalled models: C3 V4 · 19 vehicles

The operation of the brake vacuum pump may be affected due to material detaching from the timing belt.

Fix: Check and if necessary replace the timing belt and other components of the braking assistance system including the vacuum pump. Additionally alter servicing schedules depending on usage.

Recalled models: C3 PICASSO · 3,101 vehicles

The front lower ball-joint locating bolt and fixing nut might have been incorrectly tightened or not fitted correctly.

Fix: Replace the bolts and fixing nuts that attach both of the front lower ball joints to the front hub assemblies.

Recalled models: C3 V4 · 8 vehicles

The brake vacuum pump may be affected by material detaching from the timing belt.

Fix: Update detection software inspect and if necessary replace vacuum pump and timing belt.

Recalled models: C3 V3 · 21,226 vehicles

Front air bag igniters may not deploy correctly.

Fix: Check and if necessary replace the affected front airbags.

Recalled models: C3 · 1,080 vehicles

The steering geometry could be incorrectly set due to an incorrectly calibrated setting rig in the manufacturing plant.

Fix: Check the steering alignment and adjusting if set incorrectly. If the front tyres are worn these will also be replaced.

Recalled models: C3 · 10 vehicles

Engine management software issue could result in incorrect emission levels.

Fix: Update the engine management software.

Recalled models: C3 · 16,144 vehicles

The calibration of the engine management software could result in emissions of NOx which do not comply with the regulatory limits.

Fix: Download new engine management software

Recalled models: C3 PICASSO · 5,290 vehicles

It is possible that the bonnet hook may not be secured correctly with securing nuts.

Fix: Check and if necessary fit new nuts or replace the bonnet assembly.

Recalled models: C3 AIRCROSS · 10 vehicles

The wires in one of the connectors of the seats position sensor may not be correct

Fix: Correcting the wires in the connector of the seats position sensor.

Recalled models: C3 AIRCROSS · 12,649 vehicles

The universal clamp fixing bolt is not correctly fitted in the recess at the end of the steering column.

Fix: Check and if necessary refit the steering column universal joint fixing.

Recalled models: C3 · 78 vehicles

On the affected vehicles the tightening torques of the anti-theft wheel bolts may not be to the correct to specification.

Fix: The remedy involves correcting the anti-theft wheel bolts tightening torques.

Recalled models: C3 AIRCROSS · 4,595 vehicles

On the affected vehicles the crimping preventing lateral movement of the steering column bearing may not be correct to specification. This may result in noise and play in the steering. Ultimately it could lead to steering malfunction.

Fix: The remedy involves checking the crimping on the steering column and replacing the steering column if necessary.

Recalled models: C3 · 392 vehicles

On affected vehicles the locking nut of the rear wheel hub bearings may not be correct to specification. In extreme cases this may affect control of the vehicle.

Fix: The recall consists of checking the hub nut and if the locking of the nut does not conform to specification replacing the stub axle and the hub.

Recalled models: C3 AIRCROSS · 5 vehicles

An engine component may not be to specification which could result in loss of engine performance. This may lead to the engine stalling and potentially causing an engine failure. In very unlikely circumstances the vehicle speed may increase without warning but will stop on its own after a few seconds.

Fix: On affected vehicles carry out a functional diagnostic check of the engine. If necessary replace the engine.

Recalled models: C3 AIRCROSS · 75 vehicles

A component within the left-hand curtain airbag may not conform to specification and the air bag may not deploy correctly.

Fix: On affected vehicles replace the left hand curtain air bag.

Recalled models: C3 · 8 vehicles

A component within the right-hand curtain airbag may not conform to specification and the air bag may not deploy correctly.

Fix: On affected vehicles replace the right hand curtain air bag.

Recalled models: C3 · 5 vehicles

A possible nonconformity of an internal component of the starter motor relay could affect the control of the starter motor. This could adversely affect the starting operation and damage the starter motor due to overheating and in extreme cases there is a risk of fire.

Fix: On affected vehicles check and where necessary replace the starter motor relay.

Recalled models: C3 · 3,607 vehicles

The ignition module which triggers the front seat airbag may not deploy in the event of an impact. There is no indication to the driver the unit is faulty.

Fix: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected and replace the front seat airbag unit.

Recalled models: C3 · 65 vehicles

In the event of emergency braking or during an ESP regulation phase (e.g. avoiding manoeuvre) the hydraulic block may not prevent the locking of a wheel which could affect control of the vehicle.

Fix: On affected vehicles replace the braking system hydraulic block

Recalled models: C3 · 787 vehicles

An oil leak could develop at the turbocharger lubrication union retaining bolt due to a non-conformity of this part.

Fix: On affected vehicles replace the turbocharger lubrication union bolt and its seals.

Recalled models: C3 · 17 vehicles

It is possible that the front subframe and suspension wishbones mounting bolts may not have been torqued to the correct specification. This could result in the mounting bolt working loose and falling from the vehicle plus the possibility of the insecurity of the subframe or the front suspension wishbone. This can cause an issue with the handling or even loss of control of the vehicle.

Fix: Recall all affected vehicles to check and retorque the front subframe and suspension wishbone mounting bolts.

Recalled models: C3 · 24 vehicles

Front subframes on affected vehicles may show signs of damage to the left hand mounting point caused during the manufacturing process. Over time this may affect durability and cause the mounting to fail. This can affect security of components attached to the subframe and may affect control of the vehicle.

Fix: Prior to failure the driver should notice excessive noise from this area. As a safety measure affected vehicles should be checked and where necessary the subframe replaced.

Recalled models: C3 · 28 vehicles

The front suspension wishbone mounting bolts might not have been manufactured to the correct specification potentially causing a risk of these parts breaking. Broken mounting bolts can be noticed by the driver through noises and poor directional control.

Fix: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected to replace the front suspension wishbone mounting bolts.

Recalled models: C3 · 3,092 vehicles

The weld securing the tailgate struts may not be strong enough to support the tailgate in the long term and may detach. If this happens the tailgate may not remain in the open position.

Fix: In the event of the weld not meeting conformity the tailgate must be replaced.

Recalled models: C3 PICASSO · 209 vehicles

It has been established that the high pressure fuel rail pipes on the engine have not been torqued to the correct specification. This can result in poor sealing of the rail which can cause as fuel leak onto the engine. If the vaporised fuel comes into contact with a hot engine component there can be a risk of an engine bay fire.

Fix: Recall all the affected vehicles and retorque the high pressure fuel rail pipes.

Recalled models: C3 · 279 vehicles

It has been identified that it is possible that the rear screen seal may not be to specification. This could lead to water ingress into the boot area which in extreme cases could cause the rear screen to become insecure in its housing.

Fix: Recall all affected vehicles and replace the rear screen seal.

Recalled models: C3 · 19 vehicles

It has been established that the con-rod (big end) shell bearings may not have been manufactured to specification. This could lead to premature deterioration of the shells and if not identified it could result in engine failure.

Fix: Recall affected vehicles and replace con-rod shell bearings.

Recalled models: C3 · 1,169 vehicles

The nearside front brake hose may not be properly secured and could chafe. If not noticed the chafing could cause loss of brake fluid and the warning lamp to illuminate. Additionally it is possible the braking efficiency could be adversely affected.

Fix: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected to check and where necessary correctly secure the nearside front brake hose or replace the hose.

Recalled models: C3 · 49 vehicles

It is possible that the left hand wheel bolts may not have been torqued to the correct specification. This could lead to noise or vibration from the wheels and if not rectified it could result in wheel detachment and loss of control of the vehicle.

Fix: Recall affected vehicles to check and if necessary re-torque the wheel bolts.

Recalled models: C3 · 129 vehicles

The battery earth cable dimensions are incorrect and may cause the cable to break. This will then cause the engine to cut out.

Fix: Replace the battery negative cable with a new dimension cable. (length and terminal)

Recalled models: C3 · 123 vehicles

The ABS block may not conform to manufacturer specification. This could affect the operation of the ABS/ESP systems on the rare occasions that they are activated.

Fix: The hydraulic ABS/ESP block will be checked and if necessary replaced.

Recalled models: C3 · 963 vehicles

The engine may cut out as a dimensional nonconformity of the earth cable could lead to it breaking.

Fix: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected to replace the battery earth cable.

Recalled models: C3 · 981 vehicles

There is a possibility that a component internal to the steering mechanism may not be manufactured to the correct specification which over time can cause the steering to become either stiff or easier to operate.

Fix: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected to replace the steering mechanism.

Recalled models: C3 · 2 vehicles

The battery earth return cable is not to the correct specification which during vehicle operation may cause it to fail. This could result in the engine cutting out.

Fix: Recall all affected vehicle and replace the battery earth return cable.

Recalled models: C3 · 2,712 vehicles

The battery earth return cable is not to the correct specification which during vehicle operation may cause it to fail. This could result in the engine cutting out.

Fix: Recall all affected vehicle and replace the battery earth return cable.

Recalled models: C3 · 1,276 vehicles

The front suspension lower swivel joint may not be tightened correctly. If the bolt slackens the joint may separate. This could adversely affect the directional control of the vehicle.

Fix: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected to check and where necessary correct the tightening torque of the lower swivel joint clamp bolt.

Recalled models: C3 · 7 vehicles

The earth cable for the battery may be too short and could break. If this happens the vehicle electrical circuit will fail. This could cause the engine to cut out.

Fix: Recall all affected vehicles and replace the battery earth cable.

Recalled models: C3 · 589 vehicles

On affected vehicles the drivers airbag nay not be of conformity. This non-conformity could lead to poor deployment of the airbag in the event of a collision.

Fix: Replace drivers airbag

Recalled models: C3 · 25 vehicles

The battery earth return cable maybe too short which during vehicle operation may cause it to fail at its gearbox mounting point. This could result in the engine cutting out.

Fix: Recall all affected vehicle and replace the battery earth return cable.

Recalled models: C3 · 9,175 vehicles

The tailgate may fall from the open position because of a potentially faulty ball joint to strut link.

Fix: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected to check and if necessary replace the tailgate struts.

Recalled models: C3 · 34 vehicles

The fixing bracket of the air unit on the engine may break under the effect of vibration. This could affect some of the surrounding components.

Fix: Remove the bracket and replace with washers

Recalled models: C3 · 1,057 vehicles

A component within the parking brake assembly may not meet conformity this could result in a lengthening of the handbrake travel which could have an affect on the parking brake efficiency.

Fix: Recall the affected vehicles and replace the non-conformity components.

Recalled models: C3 · 3,773 vehicles

The brakes could be inadvertently applied by the passenger.

Fix: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected to fit a cover over the cross shaft lobe on the passenger side.

Recalled models: C3 PICASSO · 24,213 vehicles

On the affected vehicles an internal component of the braking assistance circuit amplifier may not be in conformity. This could result in reduction of braking over time.

Fix: Replacement of the amplifier (Servo).

Recalled models: C3 · 22 vehicles

Possible nonconformity of the welding between the cross rail under the floor and its end piece. This possible nonconformity may mean that the rear seats are not held correctly in place in the event of a serious impact.

Fix: Checking of the assembly and repair if necessary.

Recalled models: C3 · 38 vehicles

Due to incorrect machining it is possible that the crankshaft is not to the correct specification which can lead to insufficient lubrication of the crankshaft and subsequent engine failure.

Fix: Recall all affected vehicles and replace the engine.

Recalled models: C3 · 72 vehicles

It has been identified that the position of the exterior lighting control ring may not be detected by the lighting management system and the lights may switch off without warning.

Fix: Recalled vehicles will have the lighting management software updated.

Recalled models: C3 PLURIEL · 12,950 vehicles

The fuel tank mounting bolts may have been incorrectly torqued this may cause the mountings to become loose which can lead to stress on the fuel pipes and subsequently a fuel leak.

Fix: Recall the affected vehicles to check and if necessary retorque of the mounting bolts.

Recalled models: C3 · 44 vehicles

The bonnet lock fixing bolts may not be fully secure which can result in noise and vibration and in rare cases insecure holding by the bonnet catch and lock.

Fix: On recalled vehicles the tightness of the bonnet lock fixing bolts will be checked and where necessary tightened to specification.

Recalled models: C3 · 67 vehicles

The bolts securing the engine cradle to the chassis may not be fully secure. There is a possibility that the bolts may loosen which will result in noise vibration and in rare cases an alteration in vehicle handling.

Fix: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected to replace all the securing bolts and tighten them to the correct specification.

Recalled models: C3 · 16 vehicles

The security of the windscreen trim may deteriorate over a period of time. This could ultimately result in detachment of the trim.

Fix: Recall affected vehicles check security of trim and if required replace trim.

Recalled models: C3 PICASSO · 13,234 vehicles

It has been established that on some C3's the rigid section of the front brake hose may be deformed or twisted. This could result in a deterioration of the braking efficiency.

Fix: Recall the affected vehicles and inspect the brake hose for distortion and replace if required.

Recalled models: C3 · 7,760 vehicles

The front axle fixings may not have been tightened sufficiently. This may result in the front axle becoming insecure which may in rare cases if not corrected cause directional control to become impaired.

Fix: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected to check the front axle fixings and where necessary tighten them to specification.

Recalled models: C3 · 36 vehicles

The fuel supply lines may not be correctly routed under the vehicle and may contact the heat shield. Should this occur it can result in chaffing of the fuel pipe which can cause a leak.

Fix: Recall the affected vehicles and fit additional securing fixings.

Recalled models: C3 PICASSO · 611 vehicles

The front right hand drive-shaft may fail.

Fix: Recall the affected vehicles to check and if necessary replace the right hand drive-shaft

Recalled models: C3 · 114 vehicles

It has been identified that due to incorrect positioning of the exterior lighting control ring by the lighting management system the lights may switch off unexpectedly.

Fix: Recalled vehicles will have the lighting management software updated

Recalled models: C3 PLURIEL · 37,086 vehicles

The parking brake may fail due to the cable not being manufactured to specification.

Fix: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected to replace the parking brakes cables.

Recalled models: C3 · 754 vehicles

An incorrect engine relay unit may have been fitted. This ECU could deteriorate and cause operating faults and perhaps failure of certain equipment

Fix: Recall affected vehicles check Engine Relay Unit and replace if not correct specification.

Recalled models: C3 PLURIEL · 6,031 vehicles

The tightening torque for the front suspension wishbone mounting bolts has proved insufficient. This can lead to loosening represented by abnormal noise

Fix: Recall affected vehicles and retorque front suspension wishbone bolts

Recalled models: C3 · 4,652 vehicles

If the battery voltage is abnormally low the antilock braking system electronic control unit may not perform to specification which in rare cases may cause a reduction in braking efficiency.

Fix: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected to replace the Electronic Control Unit.

Recalled models: C3 · 4,032 vehicles

It has been identified that the accelerator pedal can return too slowly. This can have an effect on the driving of the vehicle

Fix: Recalled vehicles will have the accelerator pedal replaced.

Recalled models: C3 · 9,868 vehicles

This concern relates to right hand drive vehicles only. There may cases of the brake linkage lever being defectively assembled which may result in a loss of braking efficiency.

Fix: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected check and where necessary reposition the brake pedal relay linkage lever.

Recalled models: C3 · 6,772 vehicles

In the exceptional event of a spring breaking there could be a risk of the spring making contact with the vehicle tyre.

Fix: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected and fit a suspension cup to each side of the front suspension.

Recalled models: C3 · 56,604 vehicles

The C3 vehicles concerned are fitted with a panoramic sunroof in respect of which the mobile glass has securing nuts that do not meet the manufacturer's quality requirements.

Fix: Recall affected vehicles and replace the sunroof securing nuts.

Recalled models: C3 · 64 vehicles

Possibility that roof bars may slip when bulky objects are placed on them

Fix: Recall affected vehicles and replace roof bars with modified type.

Recalled models: C3 · 381 vehicles

Water ingress to the ABS ECU connector may cause a malfunction of the anti lock braking system. In the worst case water contamination could cause a short circuit and fire in the ABS control unit.

Fix: Protect the ABS connector from water ingress. Replace the ABS ECU if found necessary.

Recalled models: C3 · 5,032 vehicles

The front passenger air bag may not fully deploy in an impact.

Fix: Fit a replacement air bag.

Recalled models: C3 · 361 vehicles

The front suspension lower ball joint pinch bolts may not have been fully tightened. In the worst case separation of the ball joint from the suspension arm would affect directional control of the vehicle.

Fix: Check the ball joint pinch bolts for correct torque and tighten where necessary.

Recalled models: C3 · 2,828 vehicles