C5 hydraulic valve noise when engine off?

[Johnno]

Hi there, my C5 2.2 MkIII has today developed an odd noise which may be related to the hydraulics. You'll be familiar with the suspension pump sound you get when a door is opened. I now have a noise coming from the near-side of the engine which occurs when a door is opened and/or ignition on / engine running. It's difficult to describe, but sounds like it could be a pressure control valve which is bouncing or vibrating. It ain't good, anyway and hasn't occurred until today. I've tried setting the suspension to low to see if that helps, but I don't notice any major difference. The noise is always there when the engine is running but with the engine off it will continue intermittently for a few seconds before stopping until another action (like said door opening) kicks things back into life. The suspension and pump appears to be operating normally.

I'm not 100% sure but I think it always stops when a valve sound comes from around the pump area, which suggests maybe some pressure equalisation? Anyway, it would be good to get some pointers before I go digging too deep. There's never a good time for these things, but of course it's occurred a few days before heading off for a week! Rats.

Any ideas gratefully received,

John

[Johnno]

Hi, the image shows the device making the noise. Is this the 'built-in hydraulic interface'? The noise could either be the solenoid / electrovalve or something from inside the flat cover. Has anyone replaced / rebuilt this? I'm rather assuming it is of the 'no user serviceable parts inside' type of beast.

Ta,

John

[Quackers]

I could be wrong here, but i had what you describe 3 years ago on my 2.2 173BHP C5, turned out to be the Air Doser.

Like what you are getting it was there when the engine was running, but would also make a clicking noise for a few seconds when unlocking the car, or sometimes when opening a door with the engine off and my first thought was something to do with the suspension pump, but Air Doser it was. Google image search for Citroen air doser and see if it looks like that part to you.

[Johnno]

Hi Quackers and thanks for your reply. I've looked at air dosers and they look quite different. I'll try and find a dealer to identify the part and then decide how to proceed. Now got the dreaded "engine management faulty" warning coming up. Bother.

Chhers.

[Hell Razor5543]

It could well be worth introducing your C5 to a Lexia to see what it comes up with. There are loads of Forum members who have Lexias, and are willing to help out. Here is the list;

http://www.frenchcarforum.co.uk/forum/v ... 19&t=29178

[Johnno]

Thanks James, that's a good idea. There are a few not too distant, so I'll get in touch before my return.

John