2001 Citroen C5 SX review from UK and Ireland

Crankshaft pulley started going - but all HDi's get this problem around 100K.

Warped brake discs - but thats down to the previous owner.

I've found my C5 to be great for motorway cruising, which is all I do in it - it is comfortable & refined.

Performance is OK & fuel economy is great - though it does fall off quickly if you get much above 70. I can average 55 mpg if I keep a bit under 70mph.

Good points:

- Dirt cheap to buy for a modern diesel.

- Reliable - never broken down during 40K miles & car was 5 years old when I got it.

- Huge load lugger.

- Automatic lights.

- Automatic wipers.

- Comfortable seats, like the armrest!

Bad Points:

Cup holders are rubbish.

Climate control is a total waste of time - you always have to adjust the temperature, which kinda defeats the object. Dual zones is nice though, & works well.

Seat belts soon give up, & don't wind in again.

No rear wiper??!

Light bulbs are a nightmare to change, & blow more often, cos auto lights are always turning on & off.

Stereo is decidedly average.

It is big & unwieldy around town - diesel engine is a bit 'all or nothing' in low gears.

Electronics are an annoyance - it's always flashing up warnings for things which are just fine, including oil level, airbag, washers etc... you just learn to ignore the stupid thing, & it shuts up eventually.

The interior trim is rubbish - but you can replace worn trim cheaply enough from Citroen. I've replaced the gear stick & 2 internal door handles, which were peeling rubber off (nasty).