Checks

Checking fluid levels

~3min read

Check these levels regularly and top up if necessary, unless otherwise stated.

If a level drops significantly, have the corresponding circuit checked by the CITROËN network.

Oil level
Cette vérifi cation est valable uniquement si le véhicule est sur un sol horizontal,

This check is only valid if the vehicle is on level ground and the engine has been stopped for more than 15 minutes.

It is carried out either when the ignition is switched on, using the oil level indicator in the instrument panel, or using the dipstick.

Also check this level between each periodic maintenance service and before each long journey.

When working under the bonnet, take care as some engine areas may be extremely hot (risk of burns).

Manual dipstick
Jauge manuelle

2 level marks on the dipstick:

  • A = maximum; never exceed this level,
  • B = minimum; top up through the oil filler cap, using the oil type suited to your engine.
Engine oil change

Refer to the service booklet for the frequency of this operation.

! To preserve engine reliability and emission control systems, do not add any additive to the engine oil. Oil specification

The oil must match your engine and comply with the manufacturer's recommendations.

Brake fluid level

Le niveau de ce liquide doit se situer proche du repère «MAXI». Sinon, vérifi ez
The level of this fluid should be close to the "MAX" mark. Otherwise, check the brake pad wear.

Brake fluid change

Refer to the service booklet for the frequency of this operation.

This fluid must be changed periodically.

An overly aged fluid can lead to a loss of efficiency.

Fluid specification

This fluid must comply with the manufacturer's recommendations and meet the DOT4 standard.

Power steering fluid or power steering and suspension fluid level

Pour une remise à niveau, il est nécessaire de s’adresser au réseau CITROËN.
To top up, contact the CITROËN network.

Coolant level

niveau de ce liquide doit se situer proche du repère «MAXI» sans jamais le dépasser.The
level of this fluid should be close to the "MAX" mark, without ever exceeding it.

When the engine is hot, the temperature of this fluid is regulated by the cooling fan. The fan may run with the ignition switched off.

On vehicles fitted with a particulate filter, the cooling fan may run after the vehicle has been switched off, even when the engine is cold.

In addition, the cooling system is under pressure, so wait at least one hour after switching off the engine before carrying out any work.

To avoid any risk of burns, unscrew the cap two turns to release the pressure.

Once the pressure has dropped, remove the cap and top up the level.

Brake fluid change

This fluid does not need to be replaced.

Fluid specification

This fluid must meet the manufacturer's recommendations.

Windscreen and headlamp washer fluid level

Pour les véhicules équipés de lave-projecteurs, le niveau mini de ce liquide vous
On vehicles fitted with headlamp washers, the minimum level of this fluid is indicated by an audible signal and a message on the multifunction display.

Top up the level the next time the vehicle is stopped.

Fluid specification

To ensure optimal cleaning and prevent freezing, do not top up or replace this fluid with water.

Reservoir capacities:

  • windscreen washer fluid: approximately 3.5 litres,
  • windscreen and headlamp washer fluid: approximately 6.15 litres.
Diesel additive level (Diesel with particulate filter)

The minimum level of this additive is indicated by the service warning light coming on, together with an audible signal and a message on the multifunction display.

Topping up

This additive must be topped up promptly and only by the CITROËN network.

Used fluids

! Avoid prolonged skin contact with used oil and fluids.

Most of these fluids are harmful to health and some are highly corrosive. Do not pour used oil and fluids down drains or onto the ground. Drain used oil into the containers provided for this purpose in the CITROËN network.

Test yourself

A quick Citroen C5 quiz: every answer comes with an explanation and a link to the manual page.