Citroën C8 – the spacious family car with pitfalls

The Citroën C8 was for many years a popular choice for families looking for maximum space and seating for eight people. This French MPV (spacious multi-purpose vehicle) was produced between 2002 and 2014. The model offered many practical advantages. At the same time, it also suffered from specific technical problems that you really need to know about as a buyer. Are you curious whether a used C8 is still a sensible purchase?

The C8 as part of a European collaboration

The Citroën C8 came onto the market in 2002 as the successor to the Evasion. Citroën developed the C8 together with other European car manufacturers. This was done via the Sevel Nord joint venture, a collaboration between several manufacturers. As a result, the C8 shared its platform with the Peugeot 807, Fiat Ulysse and Lancia Phedra. All four models had the same technical basis. Citroën gave its version its own styling and focused mainly on ride comfort.

In 2008 the C8 received a major facelift. The engines were refined. The suspension was improved. New driver assistance systems were added, such as electronic aids for the driver. These later models are often referred to as Phase II (second production phase). They are generally slightly more reliable than the early examples. Certain problems do, however, continue to occur even after the update. For a complete overview of common faults with this brand, visit Citroën car problems.

Where the C8 excels and where it goes wrong

The Citroën C8 scores well on space and comfort. The model measures 4727 x 1854 x 1766 mm. As a result, it offers a huge amount of interior space. The modular seats slide and fold. They can even be removed from the car altogether. This makes the C8 flexible for families who sometimes want to transport up to eight people and at other times need to carry a lot of luggage.

The ride comfort is often praised by owners. The suspension absorbs bumps in the road well and provides a comfortable journey, especially on longer distances. The sliding doors on both sides make getting in and out easy, even in tight parking spaces.

The C8 also has clear weak points. The model suffers from electrical faults. Engine problems with certain variants also occur. In addition, wear to suspension components is common. The automatic gearbox often causes problems on older models. Rust around the sliding doors and wheel arches is a frequently occurring issue.

Diesel engines: turbos and injectors need attention

Most C8 models were sold with a diesel engine. Popular versions are the 2.0 HDi (direct-injection diesel engine) with 138 bhp. In addition, there is the 2.2 HDi with 173 bhp. The 2.2 HDi is known for its smooth character. The engine has sufficient pulling power from low revs. This is due to the use of twin sequential turbos (two successively operating boost systems that together make the engine more powerful).

Those turbos can cause problems. With the 2.2 HDi there are complaints about failed turbos. This mainly happens after 150,000 kilometres. Oil contamination (dirty oil containing metal particles or burnt residues) is often a cause. Blockage of the oil supply to the turbo also occurs. Changing the oil regularly is important to reduce this risk. Preferably change the oil according to the shortened maintenance schedule. This is especially important if you drive a lot of short journeys.

The injectors can also fail. This applies to both the 2.0 HDi and the 2.2 HDi. Symptoms include poor starting, rough running and increased fuel consumption. Defective injectors lead to expensive repairs. This is because several injectors often need to be replaced at the same time.

The particulate filter also regularly needs attention. This filter traps harmful soot particles from the exhaust gases and is also called DPFS (Diesel Particulate Filter System). On mainly short trips the filter becomes clogged. This triggers a warning light on the dashboard. Have the filter regenerated by taking a longer drive on the motorway. The filter then burns the soot particles clean at high temperature. Does this no longer help? Then the filter has to be cleaned or replaced. Do not ignore the warning. A completely clogged filter can cause engine damage.

Petrol engines: fewer problems but also less popular

The petrol versions of the C8 were sold in much smaller numbers than the diesel versions. The 2.0 petrol engine with 138 bhp is the most common petrol variant. This engine is generally more reliable than the diesels. Still, it also has some points to watch.

Ignition problems occur. Worn spark plugs are often the cause. Ignition coils (coils that generate high voltage for the spark) can also wear out. Replace spark plugs on time according to the maintenance schedule. The catalytic converter (component that converts harmful exhaust gases into less harmful substances) can lose its effectiveness over time. This leads to higher emissions and possibly failure at the MOT.

Fuel consumption of the petrol engines is much higher than that of the diesel variants. Expect an average of 9 to 10 litres per 100 kilometres in normal use. For families who drive a lot of kilometres, the diesel versions are therefore more attractive financially.

Gearboxes: manual usually more reliable

The Citroën C8 was available with both manual and automatic gearboxes. The six-speed manual gearbox is generally reliable. Poor maintenance or rough shifting can, however, lead to clutch problems. Symptoms of a worn clutch include slipping in gear. Difficult gear changes are also common.

The automatic gearbox regularly gives problems. The four-speed automatic (automatic transmission with four gears) on the 2.0 petrol engine can shift poorly. Sometimes it gets stuck in a specific gear. Jerky shifts with a cold engine are also seen. Aged transmission fluid (special oil that lubricates and cools the gearbox) often causes this. Faulty sensors are another common cause.

Have the transmission fluid of an automatic gearbox replaced regularly. Ideally this is done every 60,000 kilometres. During a test drive, check that all gears engage smoothly. Pay attention to unexpected jolts while changing gear.

Electronics: faults in sensors and controls

The Citroën C8 has a fairly complex electronic system for its time. This regularly leads to faults. Failing sensors are very common. Instrument cluster faults are also a known problem. In addition, problems occur with the central locking.

The parking and rain sensors can fail. Corrosion (rust or oxidation caused by moisture and salt) in the wiring is often the cause. This mainly occurs with older models. The sensors themselves can also fail due to weather exposure. Check that all sensors work during a test drive.

The instrument cluster can fail. It can also display error messages without a clear cause. Sometimes disconnecting and reconnecting the battery helps. In other cases the instrument cluster has to be repaired or replaced. This is an expensive repair.

The central locking system regularly gives problems, especially with the sliding doors. The small motors in the door openers wear out. The sensors also work less well over time. As a result, doors may no longer open electrically. Manual unlocking is usually still possible.

Chassis: wear to bushes and shock absorbers

The chassis of the C8 is strongly built. Nevertheless, it suffers from normal wear. The bushes in the suspension arms wear out over time. The stabiliser bar bushes also wear. You notice this from rattling noises over bumps. The car also feels less tight on the road, causing it to wobble and sway more.

The shock absorbers are prone to leakage. This mainly occurs on examples that have often been heavily loaded. Leaking shock absorbers reduce comfort. Road holding also deteriorates. During an inspection, check whether the shock absorbers are still dry and have them replaced if any leakage is visible.

The driveshafts can also wear. Damaged driveshaft boots allow grease to leak out. This causes cracking noises when turning the wheels. Check the driveshaft boots regularly and replace them in time to prevent more expensive damage.

Rust and interior problems: vulnerable areas

Rust is a known problem with the Citroën C8. The bottom of the sliding doors is prone to rust. The wheel arches are also vulnerable. The loading sills also pose a risk. Moisture accumulates in hard-to-reach places. Damage to the paint speeds up the process.

When viewing a used C8, always inspect the edges of the sliding doors carefully. Also look under the sill trims. Rust in these areas can penetrate deeply. It is expensive to repair this. Also check the underside of the car for rust patches, especially around the suspension and exhaust system.

The interior is generally fairly durable. Nevertheless, it does suffer from wear. The seat upholstery can wear through under heavy use. The mechanisms of the sliding and folding seats can seize up due to dirt. Lack of lubrication also plays a role. Keep these mechanisms clean. Lubricate them regularly with a suitable product.

The dashboard trim can come loose due to heat. UV radiation (invisible sunlight that damages materials) also contributes. This is particularly visible on cars that often stand in full sun. Repair is difficult and parts are usually replaced.

Brakes: wear and corrosion on discs

The braking system of the C8 is good. It does, however, require maintenance. The high weight of the car speeds up wear. As a result, brake discs and pads wear out relatively quickly. Check the thickness of the brake discs at every service. Replace them in good time.

Corrosion (rust caused by moisture and salt) on the brake discs also occurs. This mainly happens on cars that are used infrequently. Rust on the discs reduces braking performance. It also causes juddering under braking. Regular driving and occasionally braking firmly helps to keep the discs clean.

The brake fluid must be replaced according to the manufacturer’s schedule. This usually happens every two years. Replacement is necessary because old brake fluid absorbs moisture. This reduces the effectiveness of the braking system. The brake pedal feels softer and spongier. Braking distances also become longer.

Checklist for buying a used C8

If you are considering buying a used Citroën C8, pay attention to the following points:

• Check the service book and ask for proof of regular maintenance. Pay particular attention to oil changes and replacement of the timing belt (belt that ensures the valves in the engine open and close at the right moments).
• Test all electrical functions, including sliding doors, central locking, sensors and instrument cluster.
• Inspect the bottom of the sliding doors and the wheel arches thoroughly for rust.
• Take a test drive. Watch for strange behaviour from the gearbox, especially on automatic versions.
• Check that there is no warning relating to the particulate filter. Ask about the history of particulate filter regenerations (cleaning procedures in which the filter cleans itself at high temperature).
• Test the turbo by accelerating firmly. Listen for whistling noises. Also pay attention to whether the engine feels less powerful than expected.
• Inspect the chassis for leaking shock absorbers and damaged bushes.
• Ask about any past faults and whether they have been properly repaired.

Favour models from 2008 onwards. These were produced after the facelift. They are often slightly more reliable. They are also equipped with improved engines and systems. If in doubt, always have an independent inspection carried out before you commit to buying.

Preventive maintenance extends service life

Regular maintenance is important to keep the Citroën C8 reliable. It also helps to prevent expensive repairs. Follow these recommendations:

• Change the engine oil according to the service schedule. Consider shorter intervals for intensive use. Lots of short trips also call for shorter intervals.
• Replace the timing belt on time. This usually happens around 120,000 kilometres. Replacement is also needed after ten years.
• Have the particulate filter regenerated regularly. You do this by making longer motorway journeys. The filter then burns soot particles clean at high temperature.
• Check the transmission fluid of the automatic gearbox and replace it every 60,000 kilometres.
• Inspect the chassis bushes regularly and replace them when they show wear.
• Keep the mechanisms of the sliding and folding seats clean and well lubricated.
• Check the brake fluid and replace it according to the schedule.
• Spray the underside of the car clean regularly. Do this especially in winter. This removes salt deposits (caked-on road salt that accelerates rust formation).

With good maintenance you can prevent many problems. You will also detect issues at an early stage. In the end, this saves time and money.

Is the C8 still a sensible choice today?

The Citroën C8 offers plenty of space and comfort. Prices on the used market are relatively affordable. Families who regularly have to transport lots of people or luggage will find the model practical. It is also versatile. The diesel engines provide sufficient power. The 2.2 HDi in particular performs well. These diesel engines are economical over longer distances.

The C8 also has clear disadvantages. Technical problems with the electronics occur regularly. The turbos also often cause issues. The automatic gearbox is likewise a weak point. Rust is a major risk, especially on older examples. Maintenance costs can add up, particularly if major components need to be replaced.

Whether the C8 is a good choice depends on your expectations and your budget. Are you prepared to invest time and money in maintenance and repairs? Then you can still enjoy this spacious MPV for many years. Preferably choose a model from 2008 onwards. Look for an example with a complete service history. Always have a technical inspection carried out before you buy.

Comparable MPVs from the same period

If you are unsure about the Citroën C8, there are several alternatives in the same segment. They are all similar large family cars and MPVs:

• The Peugeot 807 shares its platform with the C8 and has similar pros and cons, but is sometimes tuned slightly firmer in terms of handling.
• The Ford Galaxy (similar large MPV) offers slightly more driving enjoyment. The model has a better reputation. However, it is often more expensive on the used market.
• The Volkswagen Sharan (similar large MPV) is technically similar to the Galaxy. The model is known as one of the more reliable options in this segment.
• The Renault Espace (similar large MPV) has a sportier appearance. Comfort is also good. However, this model suffers from specific technical problems, especially with certain engine variants.
• The Seat Alhambra (similar large MPV) is another technical sibling of the Galaxy and Sharan and often offers a more favourable price.

Each of these models has its own strengths and weaknesses. Compare the different options. Base your choice on availability. The condition and service history are also important. Personal preference also plays a role.