Vehicle Segment:
Large Family Car / Executive Car
Brand Philosophy:
Citroën's reputation for innovative design, comfort (Hydractive suspension on some models), and distinctive styling.
Key Competitors:
Peugeot 407, Renault Laguna, Ford Mondeo, Opel/Vauxhall Vectra, Volkswagen Passat, Toyota Avensis.
Hydractive Suspension:
The C5 was known for its advanced Hydractive 3 and 3+ suspension systems, offering exceptional ride comfort and handling adjustability.
Design And Styling:
Distinctive styling, particularly the original controversial concave rear window on the hatchback version, and a spacious, comfortable interior.
Safety Focus:
Equipped with advanced safety features for its time, contributing to good Euro NCAP ratings.
Engine Overview:
Comprehensive coverage of all listed engine variants, including service, overhaul, and diagnostics.
Engine Specifics:
1.8L, 2.0L (Petrol), 3.0L V6 (Petrol), 2.0L HDi, 2.2L HDi (Diesel)
Transmission Coverage:
Service, overhaul, and diagnostic procedures for manual and automatic transmissions, including differentials.
Chassis And Body:
Detailed information on chassis construction, body panel repairs, and structural components.
Electrical System:
Extensive wiring diagrams, terminal pin connections, expected readings, and diagnostic procedures for all electrical systems.
Fuel And Emission:
Coverage of fuel delivery systems, injection, and emission control systems, including diagnostics and troubleshooting.
Induction And Mechanical:
Details on induction systems, mechanical components, and control systems for optimal engine performance.
Steering And Suspension:
Comprehensive repair and diagnostic procedures for steering and suspension systems.
Braking System:
Detailed procedures for brake system maintenance, repair, and ABS diagnostics.
Routine Maintenance:
Covers all routine service tasks, fluid changes, filter replacements, and inspections.
Engine Repair:
Step-by-step instructions for engine overhauling, component replacement, and rebuilding.
Transmission Service:
Procedures for transmission fluid changes, clutch service, and internal component repairs.
Electrical Diagnostics:
Techniques for diagnosing electrical faults, using wiring diagrams, and testing components.
Troubleshooting Guides:
Detailed troubleshooting steps for common and uncommon vehicle issues, including no-starts, hesitations, and stalling.
Brake System Repair:
Instructions for brake pad and rotor replacement, caliper service, and bleeding procedures.
Suspension And Steering Repair:
Procedures for replacing ball joints, tie rods, control arms, and shock absorbers.
Body And Interior Repair:
Guidance on body panel alignment, interior trim removal, and basic bodywork.
Diagnostic Techniques:
'Secret techniques used by top mechanics' for identifying and rectifying vehicle problems.
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauling, including advanced diagnostics.
Torque Specifications:
Full specifications and torque settings for critical fasteners and components.
Diagnostic Information:
Detailed diagnostic trees, expected readings for electrical circuits, and common fault symptom analysis.
Wiring Diagrams Detail:
Specific terminal pin connections and expected readings for accurate electrical troubleshooting.
Engine Management Analysis:
Guidance on understanding and analyzing different engine management systems.
Accessibility:
Viewable on PC, Mac, and compatible devices (phones, e-readers like Kindle).
Printability:
Individual pages can be printed, allowing for clean, oil-stain-free working copies.
Searchability:
Typically PDF format allows for text searching for quick information retrieval.
Update Status:
Reflects specifications and procedures relevant to the 2001-2008 production period.
Digital Rights Management:
Downloadable immediately upon payment, no physical media or shipping.
Petrol Engines:
EW7 J4 (1.8L 16V, ~115 hp), EW10 J4 (2.0L 16V, ~135 hp), ES9 J4S (3.0L V6 24V, ~207 hp)
Diesel Engines:
DW10 TD/ATED (2.0L HDi, 90-110 hp), DW12 TED4 (2.2L HDi, 136 hp)
Performance Notes:
Performance varies significantly with engine choice, from economical diesel to potent V6.
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point fuel injection for petrol engines, Common Rail Direct Injection (HDi) for diesel engines.
Emission Control:
Euro 3/4 compliant, with catalytic converters and EGR systems (diesel).
Euro Ncap Rating:
Achieved 5 stars in Euro NCAP crash tests (2003 model), demonstrating strong occupant protection.
Active Safety Systems:
ABS, EBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution), Emergency Brake Assist (EBA), ESP (Electronic Stability Program) on many models.
Passive Safety Features:
Multiple airbags (front, side, curtain), pre-tensioning seatbelts, ISOFIX child seat anchors.
Infotainment Systems:
Available with CD players, navigation systems (RT3), and premium audio systems. Manual covers basic operation and potential troubleshooting.
Driver Assistance Features:
Cruise control, parking sensors (rear), automatic headlights and wipers, self-levelling headlights (xenon models).
Connectivity Options:
Some models may have Bluetooth hands-free kits and voice control.
Service Schedule:
Variable servicing intervals based on driving conditions and engine oil quality, typically around 20,000-30,000 km or 1-2 years. Manual provides definitive schedule.
Engine Oil:
Specific viscosity grades (e.g., 5W-40, 0W-30) and API/ACEA specifications depend on engine type. Manual lists exact requirements.
Coolant:
Long-life antifreeze coolant, typically OAT-based. Manual specifies type and capacity.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 brake fluid is standard. Manual specifies change intervals.
Hydractive Fluid:
Specific LHM Plus (or equivalent Citroën fluid) for Hydractive suspension systems. Manual details fluid type and maintenance.
Common Problems:
Potential issues include: Hydractive suspension sphere failures or leaks, electrical gremlins, DP filter issues (diesel), and minor interior trim rattles. Manual helps diagnose and fix these.