Xsara questions :-) just purchased one

duncan_mcclymont · Post by **duncan_mcclymont** » 15 Jun 2008, 21:10

Hi,

I have just puchased a Xsara 2.0 HDi on a W plate and the it seems great except for the following - appreciate any advice:

1. The engine warning light comes on for a short time and the engine loses power for a couple of seconds, or stalls - other than that, it drives fine. Thankfully it is under a short warranty for this, so I can take it but - but any idea's?

2. The automatic oil level indicator says I am empty of oil - thankfully that is not the case as it is full of clean new oil

- is this a common fault - and is it easy to fix??

3. The master key has snapped, although the actual controller works just fine - do I need to spend hundreds at a dealer - or can I just get another metal bit cut?

Thanks in advance for any help, I am liking the car so far and the dealer has been more than happy to see it again next weekend for the engine light!

The timing belt is supposed to have been changed a few thousand miles ago - but the dealer cannot confirm it, if I look at it, is it clear if it is brand new or do they all look the same regardless of age?

Thanks.

Duncan.

duncan_mcclymont · Post by **duncan_mcclymont** » 16 Jun 2008, 19:19

Is it the case that the master key (metal part) is a seperate number from Citroen - can anyone recommend a good dealer in Wiltshire to try?

Thanks.

Post by **CitroJim** » 16 Jun 2008, 20:27

duncan_mcclymont wrote:Is it the case that the master key (metal part) is a seperate number from Citroen

Hi Duncan,

Welcome to the forum

I guess the Xsara is the same as the late Xantia in this respect in that the key blade itself contains an RF transponder chip for the engine immobiliser and indeed it is a separate part from the main body of the key that contains the alaram/central locking RF plip and needs programming separately. This is a dealer only job and you'll need the "credit card" that came with the car containing the magic pin number for the dealer to do it. Don't worry if you don't have it as the dealer can get one using the VIN and your proof of ownership etc and of course, at cost.

Can't help with a delar in Wiltshire I'm afraid

On your points in your earlier post. generally the EML coming on briefly means there is a stored fault code. It needs to be read using a specialist Citroen Diagnostic tester such as a Lexia. A diagnostic session is the only way to easily and effectively nail this issue.

The oil level indicator generally does not like synthetic or semi-synthetic oils; they seem to fool it. Does it work occasionally or never at all? If never, check the wiring to it. It is located (I believe) low down at the back of the block and the wiring to it can suffer heat damage from the exhaust. Note that the indicator only registers immediately after ignition on and not whilst the engine is running. Those indicators that use a light illuminate at ignition on and then go out if the level is OK. If the level is low or it is being fooled by hot synthetic oil, it flashes for 30s and then goes out.

Unfortunately, there is no way to determine the age of a cambelt. If in doubt change it. You may be able to tell if the tensioners have been changed and look very new and shiny maybe, or if the water pump looks brand-new as these items should be changed at the same time. A new cambelt/tensioners/water pump is a lot cheaper than the result of an elderly one breaking!

duncan_mcclymont · Post by **duncan_mcclymont** » 17 Jun 2008, 22:37

Wow - thanks for that.

If it gives any assistance, when the engine warning light comes on (less than 2 seconds) we loose all power - then it all comes back to life again.

No reasons (i.e. no specific behavour, not always under load, not always hot or cold!) I got it from a dealer with a warranty.

Will def look at the timing belt!, what is a fair price for that (approx)

Thanks