Citroen X7 2010 2.0HDI/160 stiff clutch

[nos4feratu]

Hello everybody, I bought a second C5, 2010, 2.0HDI/160Hp as a project car. I'm experiencing a bit of a odd problem as in clutch being stiff, pedal is hard to press, at lest harder than my other 2.2/173Hp. There is no vibrations or bangs coming from the gearbox, I can engage and disengage without any noises or grindings, just the pedal is stiff. At a closer inspection, I found the pedal from 2.2/173Hp has 2 compensation springs fitted and the 2.0/160Hp version has only one. is that a different variant or is something missing? Also, when I'm pressing the clutch pedal I can hear a squeaking noise coming from gear side (I think)

Anybody experienced this problem? Can be related with the fact car has towing bar fitted and the owner replaced the clutch with a heavier one, designed for towing?

Aaah, I forgot to mention, car has been sitting for almost an year, basically has under 1000 miles in between last 2 MOTs. Can this fact be a reason behind the stiff pedal?

As always, any suggestions will be greatly appreciated.

[GiveMeABreak]

Can be related with the fact car has towing bar fitted and the owner replaced the clutch with a heavier one, designed for towing?

I think you have part answered your own question there... not sure what exactly has been fitted - but there is only one official recommended clutch for the vehicle.

Secondly, yes, a long period of intermittent or non-running can seize things up a bit - if there is squeaking when pressing the clutch pedal, a little lubricant can cure this on the pedal bracket mechanical mechanism - just don't get any on or near the clutch position sensor or any other electronics.

[nos4feratu]

Thank you million Marc for your answer, I'm trying to get hold of the previous owner regarding the history of the clutch, however the squeak is definitely coming from engine side, most likely gearbox.

[GiveMeABreak]

Ok, so no worries, if you need official clutch kit part numbers, let me know.

[xf1ref]

When I bought my C5 with manual gearbox, RHH engine, I had the same problem. While driving in the city the clutch pedal was getting harder to press. Because of this I've changed the clutch but it was not a big improvement even if the clutch kit fitted is original ordered from France. The pedal is stiff and is very uncomfortable while driving in traffic jam.