2018 Citroen C5: known problems and what to check

Known faults on the 2018 Citroen C5

Reported by owners, mechanics and buying guides for this model and age. Check which engine the car has, as some apply to one engine only.

• Timing belt that runs in oil (PureTech petrol)

  1.0 and 1.2 PureTech petrol

  The 1.0 and 1.2 PureTech petrol engines use a timing belt that runs in the engine oil (a “wet belt”). It can break down early and shed rubber that blocks the oil supply, which can wreck the engine. Some also burn too much oil. Stellantis now covers earlier engines for belt and oil-burning problems for up to 10 years or 112,000 miles, as long as the car has been serviced on schedule.

  At the viewing: Ask for a full service history showing the right oil, and when the belt was last checked or changed. Check the oil level on the dipstick, and that no oil-pressure or engine warning light stays on.

  Source: Parkers: Stellantis wet belt compensation, and the cars at risk, Stellantis: compensation policy for earlier PureTech 1.0 and 1.2 engines (7 May 2025)

Questions to ask the seller before buying a 2018 Citroen C5

Ask before you travel to see it. A seller who knows the car will have answers, and receipts.

1. When was the timing belt last checked or changed, and has it had the right oil at every service? Is the car still within Stellantis’ extended PureTech cover?
2. Can I see the service history and receipts for any big jobs?

What to check on a 2018 car

• MOT history

  Check the reg below: its MOT history shows what has been failed or advised, and whether the mileage adds up.

• Service history

  Look for regular servicing and receipts for big jobs like a cambelt or clutch.

• Finance and write-offs

  MOT records don’t show outstanding finance or insurance write-offs. A history check does.

• Test drive

  Listen for knocks over bumps, check every warning light goes out, and make sure the gears and brakes feel right.