Checks
Unless otherwise stated, check these items in accordance with the service booklet and depending on your engine.
Otherwise, have them checked by the CITROËN network.
Battery
The battery is maintenance-free.
However, check that the terminals are clean and tight, especially in summer and winter.
For any work on the battery, refer to the "Practical information" chapter for the precautions to take before disconnecting it and after reconnecting it.
The presence of this label, particularly with Stop & Start, indicates the use of a 12 V lead-acid battery with specific technology and characteristics, which must be replaced or disconnected only by the CITROËN network.
Failure to observe these instructions may cause premature battery wear.
Air filter and cabin filter
Refer to the service booklet for the replacement interval of these parts.
Depending on the environment (dusty atmosphere, etc.) and vehicle use (urban driving, etc.), replace them twice as often if necessary (see "Engines" section).
A clogged cabin filter can reduce the performance of the air conditioning system and generate unpleasant odours.
Oil filter
Replace the oil filter at every engine oil change.
Refer to the service booklet for the replacement interval of this part.
Particulate filter (Diesel)In addition to the catalytic converter, this filter actively helps preserve air quality by trapping unburnt polluting particles. Black exhaust smoke is thereby eliminated.
After prolonged driving at very low speed or at idle, water vapour may occasionally be seen in the exhaust during acceleration. It has no effect on vehicle behaviour or on the environment.
If there is a risk of clogging, a message appears on the instrument panel screen, together with an audible signal and the service warning light coming on. This warning is due to the particulate filter beginning to become saturated (exceptionally prolonged urban driving conditions: low speed, traffic jams, etc.). To regenerate the filter, drive as soon as traffic conditions allow, at a speed of 60 km/h or more for at least 5 minutes (until the warning message disappears). If the warning persists, consult the CITROËN network. Manual gearbox
The gearbox is maintenance-free (no oil change).
Refer to the service booklet for the level check interval of this component.
Automatic transmission
The gearbox
is maintenance-free (no oil change).
Refer to the service booklet for the check interval of this component.
Brake pads
Brake wear depends on driving style, particularly on vehicles used in town over short distances. It may be necessary to have the brakes checked even between services.
Apart from a leak in the circuit, a drop in brake fluid level indicates brake pad wear.
Brake disc wear condition
For information on checking brake disc wear, consult a CITROËN dealer.
Excessive travel of the parking brake
or a loss of braking efficiency of this system requires adjustment even between two services.
This system must be checked by a CITROËN dealer.
Use only products recommended by CITROËN or products of equivalent quality and specification. To clean aluminium parts, do not use a dry cloth with an abrasive product; use a sponge and soapy water. To ensure optimum operation of vital components such as the braking system, CITROËN selects and offers very specific products. To avoid damaging electrical components, high-pressure washing in the engine compartment is strictly prohibited.Test yourself
A quick Citroen C5 quiz: every answer comes with an explanation and a link to the manual page.