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Known Faults Database

Citroen C4 problems, reliability and years to avoid

If you are considering buying a used Citroen C4, these are the common problems worth knowing about first. Our garage database tracks 7 known faults for this model, 4 of them rated high severity. Every one below is a repair bill a seller has good reason not to mention.

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Is the Citroen C4 reliable?

The Citroen C4 has 7 known faults in our database across 3 generations, 4 of them rated high severity. The most serious are engine (premature stretching and snapping of the 7mm camshaft timing chain) and engine (1.6 THP (Prince) timing chain stretch and hydraulic tensioner failure causing 'death). None of them makes the car a bad buy on its own; the risk is a seller who knows and says nothing.

That is a count of the faults we hold, not a reliability score. Popular cars get written about more, and a newer generation has had less time to show its faults.

Which Citroen C4 years should you avoid?

No year is a write-off on its own. What matters is which serious faults a given year and engine can have, and whether the car in front of you has had them fixed.

Mk1, 2004 to 2010
2 known faults, none rated high severity
Mk2, 2010 to 20181 high severity
2 known faults, the serious ones in the engine
C4 Cactus, 2014 to 20203 high severity
3 known faults, the serious ones in the engine

Years and engines with a serious known fault

  • 2017 to 2023, 1.5 BlueHDi (DV5): premature stretching and snapping of the 7mm camshaft timing chain
  • 2009 to 2018, 1.6 THP (Petrol): 1.6 THP (Prince) timing chain stretch and hydraulic tensioner failure causing
  • 2014 to 2023, 1.2 PureTech petrol (EB2, belt in oil; the same engine as the C3): wet timing belt degradation leading to oil pickup blockage, oil starvation
  • 2014 to 2022, 1.6 BlueHDi (from 2014) and 1.5 BlueHDi (from 2017): adBlue system failure on the BlueHDi diesels

Each one is set out in full below, with the symptoms, the typical mileage and a rough repair cost.

Generation 1 of 32 known faults · 12 owner reports · 5 good notes

Citroen C4 Mk1 (2004 to 2010) problems

Transmission/ClutchMedium severity💬 Owner reports

The AL4 (also called DPO) four-speed automatic is the weak point of these cars. Contaminated, overheated or never-changed fluid wears the pressure-regulation solenoids, so the box loses line pressure, shifts harshly and drops into limp mode with a gearbox fault message. PSA never specified a fluid change on many cars, which is the root of it. Replacing solenoids also needs the correct updated ECU firmware or the fault returns, and once the clutches have been slipping the fix is a full rebuild

Rough guide
£500-1500

Typical symptoms

  • Gearbox Fault warning and Sport/Snow lights flashing
  • gearbox thumping or banging into gear
  • stuck in 3rd gear (limp mode)

Affected vehicles

Engines:
All AL4 Automatics
Typical mileage:
60000-100000 miles
🔍 We have a specific pre-purchase check for this faultCheck an advert →
Engine/EmissionsMedium severity💬 7 owner reports, 2012 to 2020

Carbon builds up in the pipe that feeds oil to the turbo bearings on the 16-valve 1.6 HDi, starving the turbo until it fails, often around 100,000 miles but sometimes far sooner. A replacement turbo fitted without also renewing the oil feed pipe and cleaning the oil supply can fail again within a few thousand miles; some owners have gone through two or three turbos in a row.

Rough guide
£947-1000

Typical symptoms

  • Whining or whistling from the turbo
  • Loss of power or limp mode
  • Blue or grey smoke
  • Oil in the intake or intercooler pipes

Affected vehicles

Engines:
1.6 HDi 16v (DV6TED4 and related DV6 engines)
Typical mileage:
30000-100000 miles
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What owners report on the Mk1

12 single reports, unconfirmed

One owner each, in their own words rewritten as a line, and not counted in our risk scoring. A fault joins the list above once a second report or an editorial source backs it.

  • Electrics · February 2019A 2006 Citroen C4 experienced total electrical failure at 83,000 miles, likely caused by the ECU or the wiring loom.
  • Exhaust · January 2018A 2005 C4 1.6 HDi displayed a 'depollution system faulty' message; a forced DPF regeneration was quoted at £195 but might not resolve the issue.
  • Gearbox and clutch · October 2017An automated manual gearbox in a 2008 Citroen C4 stalled at junctions, and the electromechanical parking brake became stuck.
  • Exhaust · December 2013Replenishing the DPF Eolys fluid for a 32,000-mile 2007 C4 1.6 HDi cost £468, including £297 for labour.
  • Suspension and steering · May 2012A 2008 C4 at 18,500 miles experienced failures of both the power steering and a front coil spring.
  • Bodywork · April 2012The hatchback lock wiring in coupe models is highly susceptible to failure, possibly due to the loom between the body and hatch.
  • Engine · February 2012The 1.6 HDi DV6TED4 engine suffered turbo oil starvation at around 100,000 miles due to carbon build-up in the oil feed.
  • Suspension and steering · October 2007A C4 had knocking front suspension from worn ball joints, an airbag warning light, a broken heater, and cruise control failure.
  • Gearbox and clutch · December 2006A C4 had a heavy, gritty clutch replaced under warranty, a leaking radiator, a broken catalytic converter, and juddering front brakes.
  • Interior · November 2006An air conditioning drain blocked, causing leaks into the footwell, and the compressor drive pulley was replaced.
  • Electrics · May 2006A C4 experienced a CD changer fault, suspension knock on pull away, and a sucking noise when opening the throttle.
  • Bodywork · March 2006A C4 suffered from rattling doors and a skipping CD changer, requiring a return visit for rectification.

What owners like about the Mk1

5 notes
  • September 2018A 2007 C4 SX petrol automatic achieved over 200,000 miles on its original engine and transmission with regular servicing.
  • The C4 received a maximum 5-star Euro NCAP occupant crash safety rating, with 3 stars for pedestrian and 4 for child protection.
  • The C4's build quality is considered comparable to that of the Golf V and Focus II models.
  • A 2008 C4 2.0 HDi Exclusive achieved 47.1mpg over 21,000 miles, showing a significant improvement over the 2005 model.
  • The 1.6 HDi engine can be very economical, with some owners reporting 60mpg on longer journeys.
End of the Mk1 section.Pick another year ↑Check a Citroen C4 advert →
Generation 2 of 32 known faults · 10 owner reports · 5 good notes

Citroen C4 Mk2 (2010 to 2018) problems

Engine/EmissionsHigh severity📝 Editorial

1.6 THP (Prince) timing chain stretch and hydraulic tensioner failure causing 'death rattle' and timing jump

Rough guide
£800-1500

Typical symptoms

  • loud metallic 'death rattle' on cold start
  • engine management light (cam timing codes)
  • limp mode

Affected vehicles

Engines:
1.6 THP (Petrol)
Typical mileage:
40000-80000 miles
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Transmission/ClutchMedium severity💬 4 owner reports, 2016 to 2018

The EGS is a manual gearbox with an automated clutch, and its clutch has been known to need replacing by 24,000 miles. Owners also report stalling at junctions, the gearbox clicking back into neutral or refusing to engage a gear, and reverse not selecting. A slipping clutch can sometimes be cured by a specialist resetting the actuator for wear rather than by a new clutch.

Typical symptoms

  • Clutch slip under acceleration
  • Stalling or hesitation pulling away at junctions
  • Gearbox dropping to neutral or refusing a gear
  • Reverse not engaging

Affected vehicles

Engines:
EGS six-speed automated manual (mainly 1.6 HDi and e-HDi), later badged ETG6, including on the C4 Cactus diesels (e-HDi 92 and BlueHDi 100)
Typical mileage:
24000-40000 miles
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What owners report on the Mk2

10 single reports, unconfirmed

One owner each, in their own words rewritten as a line, and not counted in our risk scoring. A fault joins the list above once a second report or an editorial source backs it.

  • Engine · June 2019A 2017 C4 1.3 Puretech 130 EAT6 auto was subject to a quality campaign for an engine management ECU software update.
  • Gearbox and clutch · September 2018A 2012 C4 EGS experienced transmission problems, sometimes refusing to engage gear and lagging during shifts, with a new gearbox quoted at over £2000.
  • Electrics · August 2018After a battery replacement on a 2012 Citroen C4, an 'ECO deactivated, Engine Fault' message appeared when starting the engine; an auto electrical specialist could not trace the problem.
  • Engine · September 2017A C4 1.6 HDi lost power and shuddered, with the problem likely attributed to the fuel injectors.
  • Cooling · August 2017A 2011 C4 at 17,000 miles showed high temperature and low coolant warnings, needing a new temperature sensor and an oil electro valve replacement costing £815.
  • Bodywork · May 2017A December 2016 C4 had a technical service bulletin to address a potential water ingress fault near the passenger footwell seal.
  • Gearbox and clutch · May 2017A 2012 DS4 D style E-HDI EGS had a dangerous 'flat spot' when changing down on acceleration, with a 'gearbox download and re-learn' quoted at £200+.
  • Electrics · June 2016A 2016 C4 BlueHDi 100 experienced intermittent heaviness in the electric power steering, possibly due to an earth fault.
  • Gearbox and clutch · January 2016A 2013 C4 1.6 EGS at 40,000 miles suffered clutch slip, with a dealer quoting £1,459 for replacement instead of adjusting the actuator software.
  • Electrics · August 2015The radio/navigation system in a C4 1.2 EAT6 switched off and rebooted every 3-4 minutes, a known software problem.

What owners like about the Mk2

5 notes
  • The quality of this generation C4 represents a significant improvement over the previous model.
  • The C4 offers a comfortable and quiet ride, enhancing the driving experience.
  • The car features a large and practical boot, providing ample storage space.
  • The HDi diesel engines are noted for their good performance and efficiency.
  • The C4 was awarded the highest 5-star safety rating by Euro NCAP for its crash protection.
End of the Mk2 section.Pick another year ↑Check a Citroen C4 advert →
Generation 3 of 33 known faults

Citroen C4 Cactus (2014 to 2020) problems

Engine/EmissionsHigh severity💬 Owner reports

AdBlue system failure on the BlueHDi diesels. The pump sits inside the AdBlue tank, so the usual repair is a new tank, pump and injector, and owners have had it happen well before 30,000 miles.

Rough guide
£1600

Typical symptoms

  • AdBlue/UREA warning light
  • engine management light
  • countdown indicating 'Engine Will Not Restart in X miles'

Affected vehicles

Engines:
1.6 BlueHDi (from 2014) and 1.5 BlueHDi (from 2017)
Typical mileage:
22000-28500 miles
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Engine/EmissionsHigh severity📝 Editorial

Premature stretching and snapping of the 7mm camshaft timing chain, destroying the engine top-end

Rough guide
£1500-2500

Typical symptoms

  • loud ticking or rattling from top of engine
  • sudden loss of power and engine stop
  • non-start

Affected vehicles

Engines:
1.5 BlueHDi (DV5)
Typical mileage:
50000-90000 miles
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Engine/EmissionsHigh severity📝 Editorial

Wet timing belt degradation leading to oil pickup blockage, oil starvation and brake vacuum pump failure. This is the same 1.2 PureTech petrol engine, with its belt running in oil, that the C3 and the Peugeot 208, 308, 3008 and 5008 use.

Rough guide
£800-1500

Typical symptoms

  • low oil pressure warning light
  • engine management light
  • hard brake pedal (loss of servo assistance)
  • engine stalling or seizing

Affected vehicles

Engines:
1.2 PureTech petrol (EB2, belt in oil; the same engine as the C3)
Typical mileage:
Unknown miles
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End of the C4 Cactus section.Pick another year ↑Check a Citroen C4 advert →
Other years0 known faults · 3 good notes

Other Citroen C4 years: owner reports

What owners like

3 notes
  • The Progressive Hydraulic Cushion Suspension effectively absorbs bumpy road surfaces, providing a smooth ride.
  • All C4 models come well-equipped, offering good value for money to buyers.
  • The interior design and quality are an improvement compared to previous Citroen models.
End of other years section.Pick another year ↑Check a Citroen C4 advert →

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Citroen C4 recalls

Recall work is done by the manufacturer, and GOV.UK says you will not usually have to pay for it. These are the 48 DVSA recalls for the C4, newest first. They do not tell you whether this particular car has had the work: for that, put the registration into the free GOV.UK MOT history check, which shows a recall status where the manufacturer shares it, or ask a franchised dealer to check the VIN.

🏛️ March 2026Cars built October 2023 to January 2026

Alternator protection

Affected vehicles may have been assembled with contact or with a reduced clearance between the Gasoline Particulate Filter pipe and the pole protection cap of the 48V Belt Starter Generator. There is a possibility of contact between these components leading to water infiltration and an electrical arch which could trigger a thermal event.

Put right by: Replace the pole protection cap of the 48V Belt Starter Generator. Check the distance between the Gasoline Particulate Filter pipe and the pole protection cap of the 48V Belt Starter Generator and re-position or replace the pipe if required.

DVSA R/2026/073937 vehicles affected in the UK
🏛️ August 2025Cars built December 2017 to November 2020

Emission recall - On Board Diagnostics

Vehicles may be affected by incorrect performance of the On-Board-Diagnostics related to Selective Catalytic Reduction system and/or Diesel Particle Filter. The Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL) may not illuminate in the event of a malfunction and therefore does not comply with emission regulations.

Put right by: Update the Engine Control Unit software to ensure compliance to regulations.

DVSA R/2025/34615 vehicles affected in the UK
🏛️ July 2025Cars built February 2010 to September 2013

Citroen C4 Citroen DS5 Driver Airbag (Takata)

On affected vehicles the Takata airbag inflators may deteriorate over time. This may cause some inflators to rupture with too much force in a crash capable of causing serious injury or death in a worst-case scenario.

Put right by: Replace Driver Airbag module. You are advised not to drive the vehicle.

DVSA R/2025/3006,153 vehicles affected in the UK
🏛️ July 2025Cars built October 2023 to April 2025

Citroen Fuel Pipe

On affected vehicles there there may be loose connections between a high-pressure fuel pipe and the engine fuel rail which potentially could lead to a leak and risk of fire.

Put right by: Retighten the affected connections.

DVSA R/2025/283539 vehicles affected in the UK
🏛️ July 2025Cars built January 2018 to June 2022

Citroen DV5R Engines Camshaft Chain.

Vehicles may be affected by premature wearing of the camshaft drive chain leading to abnormal noise or to a breakage of the chain in the worst case.

Put right by: Update the software to improve oil pressure and reduce wear. Check the engine noise and replace the chain if required. If no problem found change the oil to one with higher viscosity and special anti-wear additives.

DVSA R/2025/2476,026 vehicles affected in the UK
🏛️ April 2025Cars built May 2024 to June 2024

Brake Pressure Modulator Valve.

On affected vehicles the Electronic Brake System Module is not according to specification which could potentially lead to light internal leakage of brake fluid.

Put right by: Replace the Electronic Brake System Module.

DVSA R/2025/1472 vehicles affected in the UK
🏛️ March 2025Cars built May 2022 to March 2023

Traction Battery software

Affected vehicles may face an error in the Battery Monitoring Unit software.

Put right by: Update the Battery Monitoring Unit software.

DVSA R/2025/1221,182 vehicles affected in the UK
🏛️ March 2025Cars built June 2024 to September 2024

Citroen Autonomous Telematics Box failure after OTA update

Affected vehicles may have been equipped with an Autonomous Telematic Box (ATB) which does not work.

Put right by: Change the ATB.

DVSA R/2025/0911 vehicles affected in the UK
🏛️ February 2025Cars built March 2024 to June 2024

Citroen Automomous Telematics Box.

Affected vehicles may experience an autonomous telematic box that cannot connect to the remote server making it not possible to make calls or use other connected services.

Put right by: Disconnect the 12V battery and reconnect it after 15 seconds then check for a trouble code.

DVSA R/2025/0702 vehicles affected in the UK
🏛️ February 2025Cars built July 2023 to February 2024

Citroen C4 C4X eVCU update

Affected vehicles may not comply with test requirements in the matter of emissions test execution by competent authorities and energy consumption may be too high.

Put right by: Update the electrical Vehicle Control Unit (eVCU) software.

DVSA R/2025/04629 vehicles affected in the UK
🏛️ January 2025Cars built July 2022 to October 2023

Citroen C3 C4 C4X Selective Catalytic Reduction diagnosis issues.

On affected vehicles the Engine Control Unit (ECU) software is not according to specification.

Put right by: Upload modified software to the ECU.

DVSA R/2025/012256 vehicles affected in the UK
🏛️ December 2024Cars built February 2024 to May 2024

Citroen C4 C4X Radio software via OTA update.

On affected vehicles the Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) functionality may not meet regulatory requirements and the Active Emergency Brake (AEB) and Lane Keep Assist (LKA) can inadvertently be deactivated by a long press of the ADAS button on the radio.

Put right by: On the affected vehicles the radio software will be updated by an Over-The-Air update which will be remotely checked as successfully installed.

DVSA R/2024/486619 vehicles affected in the UK
🏛️ November 2024Cars built February 2010 to May 2018

Citroen C4 DriverPassenger Airbag (Takata)

On affected vehicles the Driver and Passenger front airbags may not deploy properly in the event of a collision

Put right by: On affected vehicles the Driver and Passenger front air bags will be replaced

DVSA R/2024/44717,614 vehicles affected in the UK
🏛️ March 2024Cars built January 2022 to November 2022

Cross carline Engine software

On affected vehicles below 12500 miles under certain conditions engine emissions may lead to a non-compliance to regulatory requirements.

Put right by: Check the mileage of the vehicle and update the ECU (Engine Control Unit) calibration on vehicles below 12500 miles.

DVSA R/2024/136150 vehicles affected in the UK
🏛️ May 2023Cars built May 2020 to November 2022

On affected vehicles the AC compressor stator wiring could develop a fault leading to current loss inside the AC compressor that could result in a vehicle powertrain shutdown when driving.

On affected vehicles the AC compressor stator wiring could develop a fault leading to current loss inside the AC compressor that could result in a vehicle powertrain shutdown when driving.

Put right by: Reprogram the Powertrain Diagnosis ECU with updated software.

DVSA R/2023/1416,867 vehicles affected in the UK
🏛️ January 2023Cars built June 2022 to December 2022

There is an error in the software calibration of the traction battery control unit which could result in a loss of propulsion when driving.

There is an error in the software calibration of the traction battery control unit which could result in a loss of propulsion when driving.

Put right by: Update the software of the traction battery control unit.

DVSA R/2023/0101,254 vehicles affected in the UK
🏛️ December 2022Cars built April 2017 to July 2018

On the affected vehicles the operation of the brake vacuum pump may be affected by material detaching from the timing belt caused by the ageing of the engine oil.

On the affected vehicles the operation of the brake vacuum pump may be affected by material detaching from the timing belt caused by the ageing of the engine oil.

Put right by: To rectify this issue a software update will be downloaded which will improve the vacuum diagnosis (in order to warn earlier about the risk of loss or reduction of braking assistance).

DVSA R/2023/03613,740 vehicles affected in the UK
🏛️ December 2022Cars built January 2017 to April 2017

On the affected vehicles the operation of the brake vacuum pump may be affected by material detaching from the timing belt caused by the ageing of the engine oil.

On the affected vehicles the operation of the brake vacuum pump may be affected by material detaching from the timing belt caused by the ageing of the engine oil.

Put right by: To rectify this issue a software update will be downloaded which will improve the vacuum diagnosis (in order to warn earlier about the risk of loss or reduction of braking assistance). The timing belt will be checked and if needed replaced with other components of the braking assistance system and the vacuum pump.

DVSA R/2023/046652 vehicles affected in the UK
🏛️ July 2022Cars built November 2021 to November 2021

The rear hub bearing locating bolts may be incorrectly tightened

The rear hub bearing locating bolts may be incorrectly tightened.

Put right by: Check the torque of the rear hub bolts and replace the hub(s) and the bolts if necessary

DVSA R/2022/2301 vehicles affected in the UK
🏛️ July 2022Cars built March 2022 to April 2022

The high voltage harness fitted might not be to correct specification

The High Voltage Harness might not be to the correct specification.

Put right by: Check the harness conformity and replace it if necessary.

DVSA R/2022/20211 vehicles affected in the UK
🏛️ October 2021Cars built September 2020 to August 2021

Below 3 degrees temperature there is loss of the front windscreen wiper function when the vehicle stops at 0mph.

When the outside temperature is below 3C there is loss of the front windscreen wiper function when the vehicle stops at 0 mph.

Put right by: Downloading a new version of BSI software

DVSA R/2021/381748 vehicles affected in the UK
🏛️ July 2021Cars built October 2020 to April 2021

There may be an incorrect tightening torque application on the rear wheel hub

There may be an incorrect tightening torque application on the rear wheel hub.

Put right by: Check the rear wheel bearing hub screws and if necessary replace the screws on both sides of the vehicle.

DVSA R/2021/2531 vehicles affected in the UK
🏛️ June 2021Cars built July 2014 to March 2017

The operation of the brake vacumn pump may be affected due to material detaching from the timing belt

The operation of the brake vacuum pump may be affected due to material detaching from the timing belt.

Put right by: Check and if necessary replace the timing belt and other components of the braking assistance system including the vacuum pump. Additionally alter servicing schedules depending on usage.

DVSA R/2021/2383,101 vehicles affected in the UK
🏛️ April 2021Cars built February 2021 to February 2021

The wheel bolts may have an incomplete thread

On affected vehicles the wheel bolts may have an incomplete thread.

Put right by: Check and if necessary replace the wheel bolts.

DVSA R/2021/1417 vehicles affected in the UK
🏛️ January 2021Cars built March 2013 to April 2017

The brake vacuum pump may be affected by material detaching from the timing belt

The brake vacuum pump may be affected by material detaching from the timing belt.

Put right by: Update detection software inspect and if necessary replace vacuum pump and timing belt.

DVSA R/2020/32721,226 vehicles affected in the UK
🏛️ September 2020Cars built September 2009 to April 2017

Front air bag igniters may not deploy correctly

Front air bag igniters may not deploy correctly.

Put right by: Check and if necessary replace the affected front airbags.

DVSA R/2019/3391,080 vehicles affected in the UK
🏛️ September 2019Cars built September 2013 to May 2016

Due to the calibration of the engine management software nox emissions may not comply with regulatory limits

The calibration of the engine management software could result in emissions of NOx which do not comply with the regulatory limits.

Put right by: Download new engine management software

DVSA R/2019/3295,290 vehicles affected in the UK
🏛️ July 2018Cars built March 2016 to March 2018

Engine could overheat leading to failure

Engine could overheat leading to failure in extreme cases

Put right by: Download new engine management software

DVSA R/2018/178138 vehicles affected in the UK
🏛️ February 2018Cars built July 2014 to April 2015

Engine may overheat

The engine electronic cooling management control strategy and the maximum temperature alert threshold could cause the engine to overheat. This could result in a warning light and a message being displayed on the instrument panel.

Put right by: On affected vehicles download a new engine management software in order to modify the cooling management parameters to improve the control of the engine operating temperature.

DVSA R/2018/0492,098 vehicles affected in the UK
🏛️ December 2017Cars built October 2017 to November 2017

Engine component may not be to specification

An engine component may not be to specification which could result in loss of engine performance. This may lead to the engine stalling and potentially causing an engine failure. In very unlikely circumstances the vehicle speed may increase without warning but will stop on its own after a few seconds.

Put right by: On affected vehicles carry out a functional diagnostic check of the engine. If necessary replace the engine.

DVSA R/2017/33975 vehicles affected in the UK
🏛️ October 2017

Corrosion within the tailgate strut assembly could cause the strut to fail

Non-conformity of a tailgate strut internal component may allow corrosion to develop. This may cause the strut to fail and the tailgate may not be held open.

Put right by: On affected vehicles replace the struts.

DVSA R/2017/28911 vehicles affected in the UK
🏛️ October 2017

Ingress of water and corrosion may cause the wiper motor to fail

A nonconformity of the windscreen wiper motor breather system could in some cases result in the entry of water and complete jamming of the motor due to internal corrosion.

Put right by: On affected vehicles replace the wiper motor.

DVSA R/2017/29011 vehicles affected in the UK
🏛️ July 2017Cars built May 2013 to April 2017

Starter supply wire may chafe

The positioning of the starter motor supply terminal may not conform to specification. Contact with a neighbouring component could cause a short circuit.

Put right by: On affected vehicles check the position of the terminal and where necessary reposition. Replace damaged components if necessary.

DVSA R/2017/2082,014 vehicles affected in the UK
🏛️ December 2016Cars built November 2009 to May 2016

Bonnet may open unexpectedly

It has been identified that the bonnet striker support may corrode. If this corrosion is not treated there is a possibility the bonnet striker support may fail which will allow the bonnet to open whilst the vehicle is in motion. Early warning signs or symptoms of corrosion can be seen by the driver around the bonnet striker support and on the leading edge of the bonnet also the bonnet may not lock correctly.

Put right by: Recall affected vehicles to inspect the area around the bonnet striker support and take preventive action to protect the area from corrosion which may include the replacement of the bonnet if required.

DVSA R/2016/24141,893 vehicles affected in the UK
🏛️ October 2016Cars built April 2016 to April 2016

Loss of control

In the event of emergency braking or during an ESP regulation phase (e.g. avoiding manoeuvre) the hydraulic block may not prevent the locking of a wheel which could affect control of the vehicle.

Put right by: On affected vehicles replace the braking system hydraulic block

DVSA R/2016/229787 vehicles affected in the UK
🏛️ July 2016Cars built May 2014 to May 2014

Fuel may leak

The fuel injectors supply rail could develop a leak over a period of time leading to a drop in fuel pressure in the injector supply rail which can affect the operation of the stop start system. In some extreme cases the engine might not restart and a spray of petrol under the bonnet may occur which is a fire risk.

Put right by: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected and check the fuel injector supply rail. Where necessary replace the fuel injector supply rail.

DVSA R/2016/1593 vehicles affected in the UK
🏛️ March 2016Cars built January 2016 to February 2016

Oil leak may damage engine

An oil leak could develop at the turbocharger lubrication union retaining bolt due to a non-conformity of this part.

Put right by: On affected vehicles replace the turbocharger lubrication union bolt and its seals.

DVSA R/2016/04217 vehicles affected in the UK
🏛️ February 2016Cars built July 2015 to July 2015

Seatbelt may fail

The tightening torque for the front and rear right hand seat belt lower mountings may not be correct to specification. This could lead to the mountings detaching and in a collision additional injury to the driver.

Put right by: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected and rectify the tightening torques for the front and rear right hand seat belt lower mountings.

DVSA R/2016/03030 vehicles affected in the UK
🏛️ December 2015Cars built September 2012 to January 2014

Fuel may leak

The fuel filter's integrated heater may be defective and could cause the cover to distort. This could cause air ingress and fuel egress. Either could cause poor starting and a warning light should illuminate

Put right by: On affected vehicles replace fuel heater cover. Check and if necessary replace connector.

DVSA R/2015/2439,483 vehicles affected in the UK
🏛️ February 2014Cars built January 2014 to January 2014

Fuel may leak and create fire risk

It has been established that the high pressure fuel rail pipes on the engine have not been torqued to the correct specification. This can result in poor sealing of the rail which can cause as fuel leak onto the engine. If the vaporised fuel comes into contact with a hot engine component there can be a risk of an engine bay fire.

Put right by: Recall all the affected vehicles and retorque the high pressure fuel rail pipes.

DVSA R/2014/025279 vehicles affected in the UK
🏛️ February 2014Cars built November 2011 to November 2011

Sudden loss of power

It has been establish that a build up of deposits within the engine can result in engine running and starting issues. In extreme circumstances it can cause a sudden engine stall without any warning.

Put right by: Recall all affected vehicle and install a new software package in the engine management system.

DVSA R/2014/0212 vehicles affected in the UK
🏛️ February 2013Cars built October 2012 to October 2012

Rear brake calliper mounting bolts may be torqued incorrectly

The rear brake caliper mounting bolts may not be to the required torque. Therefore the bolts may slacken and cause noise.

Put right by: Recall the vehicles are likely to be affected to replace the rear caliper mounting bolts and ensure they are correctly torqued.

DVSA R/2013/0143 vehicles affected in the UK
🏛️ November 2012Cars built July 2012 to July 2012

Directional control may be lost

The torque settings of the fixings of the front suspension fuel tank fuel cooler and the rear wheels have been set incorrectly. Consequences of the incorrect torque settings include abnormal noise and poor operation of the vehicle.

Put right by: Retighten to the correct torque value the front suspension fixings fuel tank fixings fuel cooler fixing and rear wheel bolts.

DVSA R/2012/1348 vehicles affected in the UK
🏛️ May 2012Cars built February 2012 to February 2012

Suspension bolt torque may be incorrect

The front suspension lower arms may not be fully secure as the mounting bolts may not have been tightened correctly. The driver will initially be alerted to there being a concern because of the abnormal noise that will develop. If the noise is ignored over a long period it is possible the suspension lower arms may detach.

Put right by: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected to replace the suspension bolts and tighten them to the correct torque.

DVSA R/2012/0616 vehicles affected in the UK
🏛️ April 2012Cars built October 2011 to November 2011

Vehicle may cut out

The supply terminal to the engine relay unit may have been over tightened and over time this could damage the component and cause the engine to cut out. In addition this could cause the diagnostic warning lamp to illuminate in error and it may make it more difficult to start the engine.

Put right by: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected to check and if necessary replace the engine relay unit.

DVSA R/2012/04878 vehicles affected in the UK
🏛️ March 2012Cars built November 2011 to November 2011

Seat belt fixing bolts may loosen

The fixing bolts of the front LH and RH seat belt return rail may loosen and in cases of extreme force break.

Put right by: The bolts on the left and right- hand sides will be replaced.

DVSA R/2012/02688 vehicles affected in the UK
🏛️ January 2012Cars built October 2011 to October 2011

Braking performance may decrease

The stroke of the brake pedal which could affect the slowing down of the vehicle may be in excess of manufacturer's recommendations due to the brake bleeding operation not being fully performed.

Put right by: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected to ensure the brakes have been fully bled and that brake travel is within manufacturer's recommendation.

DVSA R/2012/01115 vehicles affected in the UK
🏛️ December 2011Cars built October 2011 to October 2011

Pedal bracket may fail

The nuts that secure the pedal mounting assembly may be the wrong specification. This could allow the nuts to work loose. If this happens control of the vehicle could be effected.

Put right by: Recall all affected vehicles and replace the nuts.

DVSA R/2011/1614 vehicles affected in the UK

Recall data published by the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency under the Open Government Licence v3.0. A recall listed here may not apply to every car of this model: the build dates and the registration check are what decide it.

Citroen C4 cambelt or timing chain, and service intervals

An overdue cambelt is the most expensive thing a seller can fail to mention on a used C4. These are the figures UK specialists work to.

Timing belt (cambelt)Wet belt
1.2 PURETECH, 1.2 VTI
62,000 miles or 6 years, whichever comes first

Wet belt (belt in oil). The original schedule was 10 years / 175,000 km (about 109,000 miles). Stellantis cut it to 6 years / 100,000 km (62,000 miles), with the belt checked at every service, after degraded belt material was found blocking the oil pickup strainer and starving engines of oil. Officially the cut applies to engines built from April 2017 and to older engines whose belt was replaced under the 2020 to 2022 recalls; the shorter figure is recorded for every year. Stellantis now covers belt and oil consumption failures on earlier-generation 1.0 and 1.2 PureTech engines for 10 years / 112,000 miles (180,000 km) when serviced to schedule. On the C3 Aircross, C4 and C5 Aircross the Hybrid versions have a chain instead (see the separate row).

Timing chainChain
HYBRID 100, HYBRID 110, HYBRID 136, HYBRID 145, EB2LTED
No fixed replacement interval

The 48V mild hybrid versions of the 1.2 (badged Hybrid 100, 110, 136 or 145) use the third-generation engine, which swapped the wet belt for a timing chain running in oil with no replacement interval. Citroen fits the chain engine to the C4, C5 Aircross and second-generation C3 Aircross Hybrids. The row carries no fuel type because these cars can be registered as petrol or as hybrids. The plain petrol 1.2 was sold alongside the hybrid with the older wet belt engine for several years, so the badge matters more than the year: check the car says Hybrid, and with the oil filler cap off a wet belt engine shows its belt while a chain engine does not.

Timing belt (cambelt)Belt
1.5 BLUEHDI, DV5
60,000 miles or 5 years, whichever comes first

The 1.5 BlueHDi (DV5, also sold by Ford as the 1.5 EcoBlue) has a conventional DRY timing belt from the crank, which also drives the water pump, plus a short chain inside the engine linking the two camshafts. It is NOT a wet belt, though some parts sellers and blogs call it one. The known fault is that internal camshaft chain, not the belt: the chain was upgraded from 7mm to 8mm around February 2023, and Stellantis extended cover for chain failures on engines built from October 2017 to January 2023 to 10 years / 150,000 miles. No manufacturer belt interval was found (catalogue data for the same engine gives 10 years / 180,000 km); specialists advise 5 years / 60,000 miles, and that shorter figure is recorded.

Timing belt (cambelt)Belt
1.6 HDI, 1.6 E-HDI, DV6
87,000 miles or 10 years, whichever comes first

Generally 10 years or 87,000 to 112,500 miles. Always replace the water pump with the belt.

Always confirm against the vehicle handbook. Intervals vary by engine, and several manufacturers revised theirs after failures in service.

Repair costs are typical UK ranges, not quotes. Actual cost depends on condition and garage.Data last verified: October 2026

Citroen C4 buying questions

What are the most common Citroen C4 problems?

Three stand out. Engine: premature stretching and snapping of the 7mm camshaft timing chain, destroying the engine top-end (typically 50000 to 90000 miles). Engine: 1.6 THP (Prince) timing chain stretch and hydraulic tensioner failure causing 'death rattle' (typically 40000 to 80000 miles). Engine: wet timing belt degradation leading to oil pickup blockage, oil starvation. The full list above is grouped by generation, with typical mileage and a rough repair cost for each.

Which Citroen C4 years should I avoid?

No Citroen C4 year is a write-off, but the C4 Cactus (2014 to 2020) carries the most serious faults: engine. The Mk2 (2010 to 2018) has high-severity faults on record too. The Mk1 (2004 to 2010) has none rated high severity. Year matters less than whether the specific car has had the known fixes, so check the history for them.

What should I check when viewing a used Citroen C4?

Ask the seller about the engine faults on this page and whether they have been fixed, with invoices. On the test drive watch for loud ticking or rattling from top of engine, loud metallic 'death rattle' on cold start and low oil pressure warning light. Read the MOT history for repeat advisories, then paste the advert into the free check, which reads it against all 7 known faults before you travel. Check a Citroen C4 advert →

Are there any recalls on the Citroen C4?

The DVSA lists 48 safety recalls for the Citroen C4 issued between 2011 and 2026. The most recent, from March 2026, is "Alternator protection". Recall work is done by the manufacturer, and GOV.UK says you will not usually have to pay for it. This list is by model, so it cannot tell you whether one particular car has had the work: the free GOV.UK MOT history check shows a recall status from the registration where the manufacturer shares it, and a franchised dealer can check the VIN.

What is the real MPG of a Citroen C4?

Owners report 51.2 mpg on average across the Citroen C4 engines with data, about 84% of the official combined figure. The gap between official and real-world economy varies a lot by engine, so the Real MPG page lists every engine and generation separately, from 738 owner submissions. Citroen C4 Real MPG by engine →

Looking at a Citroen C4 right now? Check the advert before you go and see it.

Where this Citroen C4 fault data comes from

If you used to check the Honest John “Good & Bad” section before the site closed in 2026, this page is where that information now lives. We rebuilt the Citroen C4 owner-report history from the archived Honest John dataset, added our own research, specialist and owner-club sources and DVSA recall data, and we keep it free. Each fault above is badged with its source. The same data feeds our free advert check, which reads a listing against every known fault for the exact engine and year.

CarAdCheck is not affiliated with Honest John or Volkswagen Financial Services. What happened to Honest John, and where each feature lives now.

Before you go and see it

Knowing what a Citroen C4 goes wrong with is half of it. The rest is reading the advert and checking the car's history before you hand any money over.

How to haggle for a used car: negotiate the price with what its records show13 min readHPI check vs carVertical: which is better, and our pick for a UK car9 min readMOT advisories explained: how to check them, and which ones should worry you12 min read
All buyer's guides →

Other Citroen models

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