C5 2.2hdi SX 2003 problems

[Jay P]

Hello, as you may have seen in my intro post, I may be interested in acquiring one of these for the Hydractive 3+.

There's a cheap one (£500 and he says no offers as it will break for that) fairly close but it has a heap of problems.

Its got damage to two panels at least (nearside door and front wing) and is missing the base of the rear seat and a door card. All fixable but obviously make it less attractive.

Mechanically it has EML/engine light, traction control light and service light on I'm told. Its also not running quite as he'd expect.

On the plus side it has "only" 106k miles, MOT and it runs. So i can get it home, and to a citroen specialist.

I appreciate it would cost quite a bit, but I'm thinking with all these things needing doing, i could book it in for a full overhaul. Maybe do cambelt, dpf etc while its in. And I'd end up with something pretty nice and not that easy to find.

Or maybe a whole heap of trouble!

Obviously there's no right or wrong answer without knowing more but I'd be interested in any thoughts people may have, even if "gut feeling yes" or "gut feeling no".

[Paul-R]

I'd like to know if the car has had the Eolys refilled (or bodge repaired) at all. Without that the DPF could have clogged up and this could be the cause of the EML.

[Jay P]

Thanks for your reply. He has no history - looks like an insurance write off.

I assume the worst, but in sone ways maybe thats positive as it just involves fitting new which will give the car a new lease of life.

[GiveMeABreak]

My advice - forget it. There are too many potential major issues from what you have described. Unless you are fully aware of the fault codes and the potential outlay required to get it back roadworthy, it could be a huge money pit.

[Jay P]

Thanks Marc, yes I'm coming to that conclusion myself. A shame as its hard to find the Hydravtive 3+ for cheap. But i guess these kind of projects are really for people who can do all the work themselves.

[GiveMeABreak]

With the 2.2 models of that year, they had the earlier DPF filters fitted - which do not last as long as those on later models with the later Euro standards which required the lifespan of the filter to be much longer. Because of all the other kit on the car it does mean there is more to go wrong and maintain. If you were going to go for a C5, I would suggest a MK II facelift. Newer engines and the makeover was a welcome refreshing result and they still look really nice.