Positioning:
A practical and affordable supermini, positioned as an entry-level vehicle with a focus on urban driving and practicality. The C3 also offers a slightly more refined experience with more interior space and comfort.
Competitors:
Competed against vehicles such as the Ford Fiesta, Vauxhall Corsa, Peugeot 206, Renault Clio, and Volkswagen Polo in its segment.
Citroen C2 Features:
Compact dimensions, distinctive styling, innovative SensoDrive automated manual transmission option, surprisingly spacious interior for its size, focus on agility and city driving.
Citroen C3 Features:
Wider appeal with a more conventional supermini design, comfortable ride, larger cabin and boot space than the C2, availability of more powerful engines, and a focus on comfort and everyday usability.
Engine:
Detailed coverage including maintenance, diagnostics, repair, and overhaul for various petrol and diesel engines.
Transmission:
Manual and automatic transmission service, repair, and troubleshooting procedures.
Electrical System:
Comprehensive wiring diagrams, component testing, diagnostics for lighting, ignition, charging, starting, comfort systems.
Braking System:
Service and repair of hydraulic systems, ABS, brake pads, discs, lines, and bleeding procedures.
Suspension And Steering:
Repair and adjustment of struts, shock absorbers, control arms, steering rack, power steering system.
Cooling System:
Radiator, coolant pump, thermostat, fan, hoses, and leak detection.
Fuel System:
Fuel pump, injectors, lines, tank, and emission control systems.
Exhaust System:
Catalytic converter, mufflers, pipes, and gasket replacement.
Body And Chassis:
Body panel repair, door mechanisms, interior trim, glass replacement, chassis components.
HVAC System:
Air conditioning, heating, ventilation system diagnosis and repair.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, fluid checks, belt inspections.
Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnostic procedures for common and complex faults, fault code interpretation.
Component Replacement:
Step-by-step instructions for replacing engine parts, transmission components, brake assemblies, etc.
Major Repairs:
Engine rebuild, transmission overhaul, chassis alignment, bodywork repairs.
Diagnostics:
Utilizing onboard diagnostic (OBD-II) data, multimeter testing, specialized tool usage.
Depth:
Comprehensive, suitable for professional mechanics and advanced DIYers, covering from basic servicing to complete engine and transmission rebuilds.
Engine Codes Examples:
HFX (1.1i), KFU (1.4i), 8FS (1.6i 16V VTR), 9HX (1.4 HDi), 8HY (1.6 HDi 16V).
Engine Codes Examples:
KFV (1.4i 8V), KFU (1.4i 16V), NFU (1.6i 16V), 9HX (1.4 HDi), 8HZ (1.6 HDi 16V).
Typical Horsepower Range:
60 PS (1.1i) to 110 PS (1.6i VTR).
Typical Horsepower Range:
75 PS (1.4i) to 110 PS (1.6i 16V).
Type:
Multi-point fuel injection (petrol), Common Rail Direct Injection (diesel).
Compliance:
Euro 4 compliant for most engine variants within the 2005-2007 timeframe.
Type:
5-speed 'SensoDrive' automated manual transmission (with paddle shift option).
Type:
5-speed manual, 5-speed 'SensoDrive' automated manual, or 4-speed automatic transmission (depending on engine and trim).
Manual Fluid Spec:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-80 (e.g., PSA S71 2300 specification, manual specific)
Automatic Fluid Spec:
ATF LT 71141 or equivalent for 4-speed automatic.
Length:
Approx. 3,666 mm (144.3 in)
Width:
Approx. 1,659 mm (65.3 in)
Height:
Approx. 1,470 mm (57.9 in)
Length:
Approx. 3,871 mm (152.4 in)
Width:
Approx. 1,667 mm (65.6 in)
Height:
Approx. 1,522 mm (59.9 in)
C2 Wheelbase:
Approx. 2,315 mm (91.1 in)
C3 Wheelbase:
Approx. 2,460 mm (96.9 in)
Kerb Weight Range:
Approx. 950 kg - 1,100 kg (depending on model and engine).
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
4x108
Wheel Offset Et Range:
ET 15-25 (typical)
Euro Ncap C2:
4 stars (adult occupant protection).
Euro Ncap C3:
4 stars (adult occupant protection).
ABS:
Standard on most models, optional on lower trims.
Esp Esc:
Optional on higher trim levels, not universally standard.
Emergency Brake Assist:
Available on some higher-spec models.
Airbags:
Front airbags standard, side airbags and curtain airbags optional depending on trim level.
Seat Belts:
Pre-tensioning seatbelts with force limiters.
Radio Cd Player:
Standard fit on most models, with options for steering wheel controls and upgraded speaker systems. Some higher trims may have RDS and CD changers.
Navigation:
Optional factory-fitted navigation systems were available on higher trim levels of the C3.
Cruise Control:
Available as an option or standard on higher trims.
Parking Sensors:
Rear parking sensors available as an option.
Bluetooth:
Optional factory Bluetooth hands-free systems were available on later models or as an option.
Oil Change Petrol:
Typically every 15,000 miles (25,000 km) or 1 year, whichever comes first. Check manual for specific engine variant.
Oil Change Diesel:
Typically every 12,500 miles (20,000 km) or 1 year, whichever comes first. Diesel engines often have shorter intervals or specific oil requirements.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Varies by engine, typically 75,000 - 90,000 miles (120,000 - 150,000 km) or 5-6 years. Critical for engine longevity. Refer to manual for specific engine (e.g., ET3 1.4 16V, KFU 1.4 16V).
Engine Oil Petrol Spec:
PSA B71 2302 (e.g., 0W-30 low viscosity) or PSA B71 2290 (for models with specific DPF requirements) or equivalent API SN/CF ACEA C2/C3. Refer to manual for exact viscosity and spec.
Engine Oil Diesel Spec:
PSA B71 2290 (e.g., 0W-30 low SAPS) or equivalent API SN/CF ACEA C2/C3. Critical for diesel particulate filters (DPF).
Coolant Spec:
Long-life antifreeze coolant, PSA specified (e.g., Citroën/Peugeot Coolant Type D - Pink/Purple, based on ethylene glycol with organic inhibitors).
Brake Fluid Spec:
DOT 4 (e.g., PSA S71 2113 specification or equivalent).
Common Problems:
Electrical issues (e.g., BSI module, multiplexed systems), gearbox faults (especially SensoDrive), suspension wear (bushings, drop links), premature clutch wear on manual versions, potential DPF issues on diesel models if not driven appropriately.
Citroen Legacy:
Citroën has a long history of producing innovative and characterful small cars, known for their comfortable ride and distinct French styling.
Development:
Launched in 2003, the C2 was designed as a compact, urban-focused supermini with an emphasis on modularity and a distinctive character, including a split tailgate.
Development:
The first generation C3 was launched in 2001 and updated in 2005. It offered a more spacious and conventional supermini package compared to the C2, with a focus on comfort and practicality.
Years:
2003-2009 (C2), 2001-2010 (1st Gen C3) - this manual covers specific 2005-2007 facelift/production period.
Plant Examples:
Primary manufacturing in Aulnay-sous-Bois, France, and also Villaverde, Madrid, Spain.
