Market Position:
The Citroën C8 is a large MPV (Multi-Purpose Vehicle) designed for family transport, offering flexible seating and a spacious interior. It competed in a segment with rivals like the Renault Espace, Ford Galaxy, Volkswagen Sharan, and Peugeot 807. Its positioning emphasized comfort, practicality, and distinctive French design.
Competitive Analysis:
The C8, developed under the SEAB (Société Européenne d'Automobiles et de Batteries) joint venture with Fiat, Peugeot, and Lancia, shared its platform with the Peugeot 807 and Fiat Ulysse/Lancia Zeta. Its key strengths were its distinctive styling, comfortable ride, and a wide range of engine options, including the 2.0i 16V. Competitors often focused on driving dynamics or perceived build quality.
Key Features:
The 2002 C8 2.0i 16V model is characterized by its 2.0-liter naturally aspirated petrol engine, offering a balance of performance and economy for its class. Key features include sliding rear doors for improved access, a highly configurable seating system, and a comfortable, refined ride. The vehicle was known for its safety features and spacious interior, making it a practical choice for families.
Body Style:
5-door MPV (Multi-Purpose Vehicle)
Systems Covered:
Engine mechanical, Engine management, Fuel system, Ignition system, Exhaust system, Cooling system, Lubrication system, Transmission (manual and automatic), Clutch, Driveshafts, Suspension (front and rear), Steering, Brakes (ABS, EBD), Electrical system (ECU, body control module, lighting, infotainment), Climate control, Bodywork and interior, Body panels, Doors, Windows, Seats, Safety systems (SRS, seatbelts), Diagnostic procedures, Troubleshooting, Wiring schematics, Technical specifications, Maintenance schedules, Fluid specifications, Component testing, Component replacement, Special tools and equipment
Systems Covered More:
Detailed diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) for engine management and ABS systems, precise torque specifications for all fasteners, component removal and installation procedures with supporting diagrams, fluid capacities and types for all vehicle systems, timing belt replacement procedures including tensioner and idler pulley replacement, HVAC system diagnosis and repair, instrument panel and interior trim removal, body electronic control module (BCM) functions and troubleshooting, headlight and taillight aiming and adjustment, wiper and washer system repair, power window and sliding door mechanism service.
Procedures Included:
Routine maintenance, Scheduled servicing, Engine diagnostics, Engine repair (including rebuilds), Fuel injection system service, Ignition system troubleshooting, Emission control systems, Cooling system flushing and repair, Lubrication system checks and repair, Transmission service and repair, Clutch replacement, Suspension alignment and repair, Steering system diagnosis, Brake system overhaul, ABS system diagnostics, Electrical system troubleshooting, Body panel repair, Interior trim removal and installation, Airbag system safety procedures, On-board diagnostics (OBD) interpretation, Component replacement for all major systems, Accessory installation and troubleshooting
Procedures Included More:
Complete engine overhaul procedures, including piston ring replacement, valve stem seal replacement, cylinder head gasket replacement. Transmission fluid and filter changes for automatic transmissions. Brake pad and disc replacement, caliper overhaul, brake fluid bleeding procedures. Suspension component replacement, including shock absorbers, springs, control arms, and wheel bearings. Steering rack and power steering pump diagnosis and replacement. Electrical component testing using multimeter and oscilloscope, wiring harness repair and splicing. Bodywork repair techniques, including dent removal, panel replacement, and welding preparation. Interior component repair, such as seat mechanism adjustment and repair, dashboard and console disassembly.
Technical Depth:
Factory-level diagnostic and repair procedures, complete step-by-step instructions, detailed diagrams and illustrations, wiring schematics, torque specifications, component testing procedures, troubleshooting guides, and technical data equivalent to dealership-level information.
Diagnostic Tools:
Covers procedures for using generic OBD-II scanners and potentially proprietary Citroën diagnostic tools (e.g., Lexia-3 or Diagbox, though specific tool requirements may vary).
Print Quality:
High-resolution, printable pages. Zoomable images and diagrams for clarity.
Binding Type:
Digital (PDF) - Not applicable
Paper Type:
Digital (PDF) - Not applicable (printable on demand)
Compatibility:
Compatible with all versions of Windows and Mac operating systems, requires Adobe PDF Reader and WinZip for extraction.
Zoom Functionality:
Yes, users can zoom in and out of images, diagrams, and text for detailed viewing and printing.
Printability:
Full printable specifications, allowing users to print only the necessary pages or sections.
Primary Engine:
2.0i 16V (EW10A or EW10J4)
Performance:
Approximately 136-138 PS (134-136 bhp) and 190-200 Nm torque (specific figures may vary slightly depending on exact engine variant EW10A vs EW10J4). Designed for smooth power delivery and comfortable cruising.
Fuel System:
Multi-point fuel injection (MPFI), likely with electronic throttle control (drive-by-wire) for the EW10A variant.
Engine Code:
EW10A / EW10J4
Bore Stroke:
85.0 mm x 88.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.8:1
Valve Train:
DOHC (Dual Overhead Camshafts), 4 valves per cylinder
Engine Management:
Bosch Motronic or Siemens Sirius ECU (depending on exact build)
Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.5 liters (4.8 US quarts) with filter change.
Spark Plugs:
NGK BKR6EKPA or equivalent, with specific gap setting (refer to manual).
Standard:
5-speed Manual Transmission (likely ML5C or similar)
Optional:
4-speed Automatic Transmission (likely AL4 or similar)
Features:
Both manual and automatic transmissions are designed for smooth gear changes and to complement the engine's power delivery. The manual offers driver engagement, while the automatic provides added convenience for family use.
Manual Gear Ratios:
Specific ratios for 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th gear and final drive are detailed in the manual.
Automatic Gear Ratios:
Specific ratios for gears 1-4 and torque converter lock-up are detailed in the manual for the AL4 transmission.
Automatic Fluid Capacity:
Approx. 5.5 - 6.0 liters (5.8 - 6.3 US quarts) for a full drain and fill of the AL4 automatic transmission.
Exterior Length:
Approx. 4733 mm (186.3 in)
Exterior Width:
Approx. 1810 mm (71.3 in) (excluding mirrors)
Exterior Height:
Approx. 1720 mm (67.7 in)
Weights Curb:
Approx. 1650-1750 kg (3638-3858 lbs), depending on configuration.
Weights Gross Vehicle:
N/A (Refer to vehicle documentation)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2823 mm (111.1 in)
Track Width Front:
Approx. 1530 mm (60.2 in)
Track Width Rear:
Approx. 1530 mm (60.2 in)
Tire Size:
Common sizes include 215/65 R15, 215/60 R16, or 225/55 R17 depending on trim and options.
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
5x108
Cargo Volume:
Highly variable due to flexible seating. Minimum ~500 liters to maximum with seats removed/folded. Consult manual for specific configurations.
Ratings:
Euro NCAP ratings for C8 (early models) typically achieved 4 or 5 stars, reflecting good occupant protection. Specific rating for 2002 model would be confirmed via Euro NCAP archives.
Active Features:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD), potentially Traction Control System (TCS) on higher trims.
Passive Features:
Multiple airbags (front, side, curtain), three-point seatbelts with pre-tensioners and load limiters, ISOFIX child seat mounting points, collapsible steering column, reinforced body structure.
Airbag Count:
Typically 4-6 airbags as standard or optional (front, front-side). Curtain airbags for rear passengers available on higher trims.
Child Seat Anchors:
ISOFIX mounting points on rear seats (typically 2). Additional top tether points may be present.
Crash Test Results:
Euro NCAP 4-star rating for frontal and side impact protection in early tests. Specific test data for the 2002 model can be found on the Euro NCAP website.
Infotainment:
Basic infotainment system with radio/CD player, likely with steering wheel controls on higher trims. Speaker system configuration varies by trim level.
Driver Assistance:
Cruise control available on some trims. Parking sensors were an optional extra. ABS and EBD are standard safety features.
Connectivity:
Limited connectivity by modern standards. May feature an auxiliary input for external devices on some later models or as an aftermarket addition. Bluetooth connectivity was not a standard factory feature for the 2002 model year.
Climate Control:
Manual or automatic climate control systems available, with multi-zone options (driver, passenger, rear) on higher specifications. Features include air conditioning, heating, and recirculation.
Lighting:
Halogen headlights, possibly with projector lenses on higher trims. Front fog lights, rear fog lights, and comprehensive interior lighting. Bulb types are specified in the manual.
Instrument Cluster:
Analog gauges for speedometer, tachometer, fuel level, and engine temperature. Digital odometer and trip computer. Warning lights for various systems.
Service Intervals:
Typical interval of 15,000 miles or 12 months for routine servicing. Timing belt replacement recommended every 60,000-70,000 miles or 5 years. Consult manual for exact intervals and conditions.
Fluid Specifications:
Engine Oil: SAE 5W-40 or 5W-30 (API SL/SM or ACEA A3/B3/B4). Coolant: G11 or G12 specification. Brake Fluid: DOT 4. Power Steering Fluid: Refer to Citroën specification (often LDS fluid for other models, but check for C8 specific). Transmission Fluid: Manual - Gear oil SAE 75W-80 (API GL-4/GL-5); Automatic - ATF (refer to specific AL4 specification).
Known Issues:
Potential issues may include: EGR valve clogging, swirl flap motor failure (if applicable), automatic transmission hesitation or failure (AL4 common issues), suspension wear (particularly ball joints and bushins), electrical gremlins, and exhaust system corrosion. The 2.0i 16V engine is generally robust but requires consistent maintenance.
Timing Belt Part Number:
Varies by manufacturer (e.g., Gates, Continental). Consult manual or parts catalog for specific PN for EW10A/EW10J4 engine.
Oil Filter Part Number:
Common part numbers from Mann-Filter (e.g., HU715/1x), Mahle, or Bosch. Consult manual or parts supplier.
Air Filter Part Number:
Common part numbers from Mann-Filter (e.g., C35170), Purflux, or Bosch. Consult manual or parts supplier.
Cabin Filter Part Number:
Common part numbers from Mann-Filter (e.g., CU2434), Purflux, or Bosch. May be a standard or activated carbon filter.
Brand Heritage:
Citroën has a long history of innovation in automotive design and engineering, known for pioneering technologies like hydropneumatic suspension and front-wheel drive. The brand is associated with comfort, unique styling, and practicality, especially in its van and MPV offerings.
Model Evolution:
The C8 was introduced in 2002 as a successor to the Evasion/Synergie. It was part of a platform sharing agreement, meaning its design and engineering were closely related to its sister models from Peugeot and Fiat. The C8 received minor updates and facelifts throughout its production run.
Production Location:
Produced at the SEVEL Nord plant in Valenciennes, France.
Platform Sharing:
Shared platform and many components with Peugeot 807, Fiat Ulysse, and Lancia Zeta (Lancia Phedra). This collaboration aimed to reduce development costs and leverage shared expertise.
Production Years:
2002-2014