2023 CITROEN C3 AIRCROSS check engine light

68
Safety
► Or, depending on version, turn the
"Grip control" knob to this position.
Deactivation is confirmed by the lighting
of this indicator lamp on the instrument
panel and the display of a message.
The ASR system is reactivated automatically
every time the ignition is switched on or at
speeds over 31 mph (50
km/h).
Reactivation is manual below 31 mph (50 km/h).
Malfunction
In the event of a malfunction, this warning
lamp lights up on the instrument panel,
accompanied by the display of a message and
an audible signal.
Have it checked by a CITROËN dealer or a
qualified workshop.
ASR/DSC
These systems enhance safety during
normal driving, but should not encourage
the driver to take extra risks or drive at high
speed.
It is in conditions of reduced grip (rain, snow,
ice) that the risk of loss of grip increases. It
is therefore important for your safety to keep
these systems activated in all conditions, and
particularly in difficult conditions.
Correct operation of these systems depends
on compliance with the manufacturer's
recommendations relating to the wheels
(tyres and rims), braking and electronic
components, as well as the assembly and
repair procedures provided by CITROËN
dealers.
In order to ensure that these systems remain
effective in wintry conditions, the use of snow
or all-season tyres is recommended. All four
wheels must be fitted with tyres approved for
your vehicle.
All tyre specifications are listed on the
tyre/paint label. For more information
on Identification markings , refer to the
corresponding section.
Grip control
(Depending on version)
A special, patented traction control system,
which improves driveability on snow, mud and
sand.
This system, optimised for operation in a range
of conditions, enables you to manoeuvre in most
slippery conditions (encountered during normal
passenger car use).
When combined with all-season Peak Mountain
Snow Flake tyres, this system offers a
compromise between safety, grip and driveability.
The accelerator pedal should be pressed
sufficiently to allow the system to harness the
power of the engine. Operation at high engine
speeds is completely normal.
A five-position selector knob allows you to
choose the setting best suited to the driving
conditions encountered.
An indicator lamp associated with each mode
comes on, accompanied by the display of a
message to confirm your choice.
Operating modes



Standard (ESC)
This mode is calibrated for a low level of wheel spin, based on the different levels
of grip normally encountered on the road.
Whenever the ignition is switched off, the
system automatically resets to this mode.
Snow
This mode adapts its strategy to the conditions of grip encountered for each of
the two front wheels on moving off.
(mode active up to 50 mph (80
km/h))
All terrain (mud, damp grass, etc.)
This mode, when moving off, allows
considerable spin on the wheel with the
least grip to optimise clearing of the mud and to
regain grip. At the same time, the wheel with the
most grip is controlled in such a way as to
transmit as much torque as possible.
When moving, the system optimises wheel spin
to respond to the driver's requirements as fully
as possible.
(mode active up to 31 mph (50 km/h))
Sand
This mode allows little spin on the two driving wheels at the same time to allow
the vehicle to move forward and limit the risks of
getting stuck in the sand.
(mode active up to 75 mph (120 km/h))
Do not use the other modes on sand as
the vehicle may become stuck.
You can deactivate the ASR and DSC systems by turning the knob to the "OFF"
position.
The ASR and DSC systems will no longer act on the operation of the engine

84
Driving
Driving recommendations
► Observe the driving regulations and remain
vigilant whatever the traffic conditions.
►

Monitor your environment and keep your
hands on the wheel to be able to react to
anything that may happen any time.
►


Drive smoothly
, anticipate the need for
braking and maintain a longer safety distance,
especially in bad weather.
►

Stop the vehicle before performing operations
that require sustained attention (e.g.

settings).
►

During long trips, take a break every 2 hours.
Important!
Never leave the engine running in a
closed space without sufficient
ventilation. Internal combustion engines emit
toxic exhaust gases such as carbon
monoxide. Danger of poisoning and death!
In very severe wintry conditions
(temperature below -23°C), let the engine
run for 4 minutes before moving off, to ensure
the correct operation and durability of the
mechanical components of your vehicle
(engine and gearbox).
Never drive with the parking brake
applied . Risk of overheating and
damaging the braking system!
Do not park the vehicle or leave the
engine running on a flammable
surface (e.g. dry grass, dead leaves).The
vehicle exhaust system is very hot, even
several minutes after the engine stops. Risk
of fire!
Never drive on surfaces covered with
vegetation (tall grass, accumulated
dead leaves, crops, debris) such as a field,
a country lane overgrown with bushes or a
grassy verge.
This vegetation could come into contact with
the vehicle's exhaust system
or other systems
which are very hot. Risk of fire!
Make sure you do not leave any item in
the passenger compartment which could
act like a magnifying glass under the effect of
the sun's rays and cause a fire - risk of fire or
damage to interior surfaces!
Never leave the vehicle unattended,
with the engine running . If you have to
leave your vehicle with the engine running,
apply the parking brake and put the gearbox
into neutral or position N or P (depending on
the type of gearbox).
Never leave children inside the vehicle
unsupervised.
On flooded roads
We strongly advise against driving on flooded
roads, as this could cause serious damage to the
engine or gearbox, as well as to your vehicle's
electrical systems.


If the vehicle absolutely must drive through a
flooded section of road:
►

Check that the depth of the water does not
exceed 15

cm, taking account of waves that
might be generated by other users.
►

Deactivate the Stop & Start function.
►


Drive as slowly as possible without stalling. In
all cases, do not exceed 6 mph (10

km/h).
►

Do not stop and do not switch off the engine.
On leaving the flooded road, as soon as safety
conditions allow

, make several light brake
applications to dry the brake discs and pads.
If in doubt about the state of your vehicle,
contact a CITROËN dealer or a qualified
workshop.
Towing
Driving with a trailer places greater
demands on the towing vehicle and
particular care must be taken.
Do not exceed the maximum towable
weights.
At altitude: reduce the maximum load by
10% per 1,000 metres of altitude; the lower
air density at high altitudes decreases engine
performance.
New vehicle: do not tow a trailer until the
vehicle has driven at least 620 miles
(1,000 kilometres).
If the outside temperature is high, let the
engine idle for 1 to 2 minutes after the
vehicle comes to a stop, to help it to cool.
Before setting off
Nose weight
► Distribute the load in the trailer so that the
heaviest items are as close as possible to the
axle and the nose weight (at the point where it
joins your vehicle) approaches the maximum
permitted without exceeding it.

85
Driving
6Towing
Driving with a trailer places greater
demands on the towing vehicle and
particular care must be taken.
Do not exceed the maximum towable
weights.
At altitude: reduce the maximum load by
10% per 1,000 metres of altitude; the lower
air density at high altitudes decreases engine
performance.
New vehicle: do not tow a trailer until the
vehicle has driven at least 620 miles
(1,000 kilometres).
If the outside temperature is high, let the
engine idle for 1 to 2 minutes after the
vehicle comes to a stop, to help it to cool.
Before setting off
Nose weight
► Distribute the load in the trailer so that the
heaviest items are as close as possible to the
axle and the nose weight (at the point where it
joins your vehicle) approaches the maximum
permitted without exceeding it.
Tyres
► Check the tyre pressures of the towing
vehicle and of the trailer , observing the
recommended pressures.
Lighting
► Check the electrical signalling on the trailer
and the headlamp beam height of your vehicle.
If a genuine CITROËN towing device is
used, the rear parking sensors will be
deactivated automatically to avoid the audible
signal.
When driving
Cooling
Towing a trailer uphill causes the coolant
temperature to increase. The maximum towable
load depends on the gradient and the exterior
temperature. The fan’s cooling capacity does not
increase with engine speed.
►

Reduce speed and lower the engine speed to
limit the amount of heating produced.
►


Pay constant attention to the coolant
temperature.
If this warning lamp and the STOP
warning lamp come on, stop the vehicle
and switch off the engine as soon as possible.
Brakes
Using the engine brake is recommended to limit
the overheating of the brakes. Braking distances
are increased when towing a trailer.
Side wind
Bear in mind that the vehicle will be more
susceptible to wind when towing.
Anti-theft protection
Electronic immobiliser
The keys contain a code, which must be
recognised by the vehicle before starting is
possible.
If the system malfunctions, indicated by the
display of a message, the engine will not start.
Contact a CITROËN dealer.
For safety and theft protection reasons,
never leave the electronic key in the
vehicle, even when you are close to it.

93
Driving
6With an automatic gearbox, the system is
only active in manual operation.
The information appears on the instrument panel, in the form of an arrow
and the recommended gear.
The system adapts the gear change instructions according to the driving
conditions (e.g.
slope, load) and driving style
(e.g.
power demand, acceleration, braking).
The system never suggests:
–

engaging first gear;
–


engaging reverse gear
.
Hill start assist
This system keeps the vehicle briefly stationary
(for approximately 2 seconds) when making a hill
start, while you transfer your foot from the brake
pedal to the accelerator pedal.
The system is only active when:
–

The vehicle is completely stationary
, with your
foot on the brake pedal.
–

Certain slope conditions are met.
–


The driver
’s door is closed.
Do not leave the vehicle while it is being
held temporarily by hill start assist.
If someone needs to get out of the vehicle
with the engine running, apply the parking
brake manually. Then check that the parking
brake indicator lamp is on fixed on the
instrument panel.
The hill start assist function cannot be deactivated. However, using the parking
brake to immobilise the vehicle interrupts its
operation.
Operation

Facing uphill, with the vehicle stationary,
the vehicle is held for a short time when you
release the brake pedal:
–

provided you are in first gear or neutral with a
manual gearbox.
–


provided you are in mode D

or M with an
automatic gearbox.


Facing downhill, with the vehicle stationary
and reverse gear engaged, the vehicle is held
for a short time when you release the brake
pedal.
Malfunction
If the event of a malfunction, this warning
lamp lights up on the instrument panel,
accompanied by the display of a message.
Have it checked by a CITROËN dealer or a
qualified workshop.
Stop & Start
The Stop & Start function puts the engine temporarily into standby - STOP mode - during
phases when the vehicle is stationary (e.g.
red
lights, traffic jams). The engine automatically
restarts - START mode - as soon as the driver
indicates the intention of moving off again.
Primarily designed for urban use, the function
is intended to reduce fuel consumption and
exhaust emissions as well as the noise level
when stationary.
The function does not affect the functionalities of
the vehicle, in particular the braking.
Deactivation/Reactivation
The function is activated by default when the
ignition is switched on.

107
Driving
6– warns the driver that their vehicle is at risk of
collision with the vehicle in front or a pedestrian.
–

reduces the vehicle's speed to avoid a
collision or limit its severity

.
This system is comprised of three functions:
–

Collision
Risk Alert.
–

Intelligent emergency braking assistance
(iEBA).
–


Active Safety Brake (automatic emergency
braking).


The vehicle has a camera located at the top of
the windscreen.
This system does not replace the need for vigilance on the part of the driver.
This system is designed to assist the driver
and improve road safety.
It is the driver's responsibility to continuously
monitor traffic conditions in accordance with
applicable driving regulations.
As soon as the system detects a potential obstacle, it prepares the braking
circuit in case automatic braking is needed.
This may cause a slight noise and a slight
sensation of deceleration.
Deactivation/Activation
By default, the system is automatically activated
at every engine start.
The settings are changed via the vehicle configuration menu.
Deactivation of the system is signalled by
the illumination of this warning lamp,
accompanied by the display of a message.
Operating conditions and
limits
Vehicle moving forward.
ESC system operational.
ASR system activated.
Seat belts fastened for all passengers.
Stabilised speed on roads with few bends.
In the following cases, deactivating the system
via the vehicle's configuration menu is advised:
–

T
owing a trailer.
–

Carrying long objects on roof bars.
–


V
ehicle with snow chains fitted.
–

Before using an automatic car wash, with the
engine running.
–


When changing
a wheel, working near a wheel
or inside the engine compartment.
–

Before placing the vehicle on a rolling road in
a workshop.
–


T
owed vehicle, engine running.
–

When a "space-saver" type spare wheel is
fitted (depending on version).
–


If the brake lamps are not working.
– Following an impact to the windscreen close to
the detection camera.
It can be dangerous to drive if the brake
lamps are not in perfect working order.
The driver must not overload the vehicle (keep within the GVW limit and load
height limits for roof bars).
It is possible that warnings are not given,
are given too late or seem unjustified.
The driver must always stay in control of the
vehicle and be prepared to react at any time
to avoid an accident.
Following an impact, the system is
automatically deactivated.
Have it checked by a CITROËN dealer or a
qualified workshop.
Collision Risk Alert
This function warns the driver that their vehicle
is at risk of a collision with the vehicle in front or
with a pedestrian present in their traffic lane.
Modifying the alert trigger threshold
This trigger threshold determines the sensitivity
with which the function warns of the risk of
collision.
The settings are changed via the vehicle configuration menu.

109
Driving
6– The vehicle's speed is between 6 mph and
53 mph (10 km/h and 85 km/h) when a moving
vehicle is detected.
This warning lamp flashes (for approximately 10 seconds) as soon as
the function applies the vehicle’s brakes.
With an automatic gearbox, in the event of
automatic emergency braking bringing the
vehicle to a complete stop, keep the brake pedal
depressed to prevent the vehicle from moving
off again.
With a manual gearbox, in the event of automatic
emergency braking bringing the vehicle to a
complete stop, the engine may stall.
The driver can maintain control of the vehicle at any time by firmly turning the
steering wheel and/or firmly depressing the
accelerator pedal.
The brake pedal may vibrate slightly while the function is operating.
If the vehicle comes to a complete stop,
automatic braking is maintained for 1 to 2
seconds.
Malfunction
In the event of a malfunction, this warning
lamp lights up on the instrument panel,
accompanied by the display of a message and
an audible signal.
Have it checked by a CITROËN dealer or a
qualified workshop.
These warning lamps light up on the instrument panel to indicate
that the driver's and/or front passenger's seat
belt is not fastened (depending on version). The
automatic braking system is deactivated until the
seat belts are fastened.
Distraction detection
For more information, refer to the
General recommendations on the use
of driving and manoeuvring aids .
Depending on version, the function consists of
either the "Coffee Break Alert" system alone or
combined with the "Driver Attention Warning"
system.
These systems are in no way designed to keep the driver awake or to prevent
the driver from falling asleep at the wheel.
It is the driver’s responsibility to stop if feeling
tired.
Take a break if you are feeling tired or at least
every 2 hours.
Activation/Deactivation
The settings are changed via the vehicle configuration menu.
The status of the function is saved when the
ignition is switched off.
Coffee Break Alert
The system triggers an alert when it detects that the driver has not taken a
break after two hours of driving at a speed above
43 mph (70
km/h).
This alert is issued via the display of a message
encouraging the driver to take a break,
accompanied by an audible signal.
If the driver does not follow this advice, the alert
is repeated hourly until the vehicle is stopped.
The system resets itself if one of the following
conditions is met:
–

With the engine running, the vehicle has been
stationary for more than 15 minutes.
–


The ignition has been switched off for a few
minutes.
–


The driver's seat belt is unfastened and their
door is opened.
As soon as the speed of the vehicle drops below 43 mph (70 km/h), the
system goes into standby.
Driving time starts being counted again once
the speed reaches above 43
mph (70 km/h).
Driver Attention Warning
Depending on version, the Coffee Break Alert
system may be combined with the Driver
Attention Warning system.

132
Practical information
For more information on the Indicators and in
particular the AdBlue range indicators, refer to
the corresponding section.
To avoid the vehicle being immobilised in
accordance with regulations, you must top up the
AdBlue tank.
For more information on AdBlue
® (BlueHDi),
and in particular the supply of AdBlue, refer to
the corresponding section.
Checks
Unless otherwise indicated, check these
components in accordance with the
manufacturer's service schedule and according
to your engine.
Otherwise, have them checked by a CITROËN
dealer or a qualified workshop.
Only use products recommended by
CITROËN or products of equivalent
quality and specification.
In order to optimise the operation of
components as important as those in the
braking system, CITROËN selects and offers
very specific products.
12 V battery
The battery does not require any maintenance.
Check regularly that the terminals are correctly
tightened (versions without quick-release
terminals) and that the connections are clean.
For more information on the precautions
to take before any work on the 12 V
battery, refer to the corresponding section.
Versions equipped with Stop & Start are
fitted with a 12 V lead-acid battery with
special technology and specifications.
Its replacement should be carried out only by
a CITROËN dealer or a qualified workshop.
Passenger compartment
filter
Depending on the environment and the
use of the vehicle (e.g. dusty atmosphere,
city driving), change it twice as often, if
necessary .
A clogged passenger compartment filter
can adversely affect air conditioning
system performance and generate
undesirable odours.
Air filter
Depending on the environment and the
use of the vehicle (e.g. dusty atmosphere,
city driving), change it twice as often, if
necessary .
Oil filter
Change the oil filter each time the engine
oil is changed.
Particle filter (Diesel)
The start of clogging of the particle filter is
indicated by the temporary lighting of this
warning lamp, accompanied by an alert
message.
As soon as the traffic conditions permit,
regenerate the filter by driving at a speed of at
least 37
mph (60 km/h) until the warning lamp
goes off.
If the warning lamp stays on, this
indicates a low Diesel additive level.
For more information on Checking levels,
refer to the corresponding section.
Following prolonged operation of the
vehicle at very low speed or at idle, you
may, in exceptional circumstances, notice
water vapour coming from the exhaust while
accelerating. These emissions have no
impact on the vehicle’s behaviour and the
environment.
New vehicle
During the first few particle filter
regeneration operations, you may notice a
"burning" smell. This is perfectly normal.
Manual gearbox
The gearbox does not require any maintenance (no oil change).
Automatic gearbox
The gearbox does not require any maintenance (no oil change).
Brake pads
Brake wear depends on the style of
driving, particularly in the case of vehicles
used in town, over short distances. It may be
necessary to have the condition of the brakes
checked, even between vehicle services.
Unless there is a leak in the circuit, a drop in the
brake fluid level indicates that the brake pads
are worn.
After washing the vehicle, moisture, or in wintry conditions, ice can form on the
brake discs and pads: braking efficiency may
be reduced. Gently dab the brakes to dry and
defrost them.
Brake disc wear
For information on checking brake disc
wear, contact a CITROËN dealer or a
qualified workshop.
Manual parking brake
If you notice excessive brake lever travel
or decreased effectiveness, the parking
brake must be adjusted, even between two
services.
This system must be checked by a CITROËN
dealer or a qualified workshop.

144
In the event of a breakdown
Refitting the lamp units
Perform the operations in the reverse
order to dismantling.
Opening the bonnet/Accessing the
bulbs
Proceed with caution when the engine is hot -
risk of burns!
Take care with objects or clothing that could
be caught in the blades of the cooling fan -
risk of strangulation!
Halogen bulbs (Hx)
To ensure good quality lighting, check
that the bulb is correctly positioned in its
housing.
Light-emitting diode (LED)
headlamps and lamps
Depending on version, the affected types of
headlamps/lamps are:
– Front foglamps.
– Daytime running lamps/sidelamps.
– Dipped beam headlamps.
– Main beam headlamps.
– Direction indicator side repeaters.
– Third brake lamp.
– Number plate lamps.
Putting the spare wheel
back in place
The punctured wheel cannot be put
under the boot floor.


► Put the spare wheel back in place in its
housing.
►

Slacken the nut on the bolt by a few turns.
►


Position the fastening device (nut and bolt) in
the middle of the wheel.
►


T
ighten the central nut sufficiently to retain
the wheel correctly.
►

Stow the tools in the bag or storage box
(depending on equipment).
If there is no wheel in the well, the
fastening device (nut and bolt) cannot be
refitted.
After changing a wheel
With a "space-saver" type spare wheel
Deactivate certain driving aid functions
(Active Safety Brake, Adaptive cruise control,
etc.).
Do not exceed the maximum authorised
speed of 50 mph (80
km/h) or the maximum
distance of 50 miles (80 km).
Driving with more than one "space-saver"
type spare wheel is prohibited.
Visit a CITROËN dealer or a qualified
workshop.
Have the tightening of the spare wheel's bolts
and its tyre pressure checked.
Have the punctured tyre examined. After
inspection, the technician will advise you on
whether the tyre can be repaired or if it must
be replaced.
Changing a bulb
In some weather conditions (e.g. low
temperature or humidity), misting on the
internal surface of the glass of the headlamps
and rear lamps is normal, and will disappear
after the lamps have been on for a few
minutes.
The headlamps have polycarbonate lenses with a protective coating:
–

Do not clean them with a dry or abrasive
cloth, nor with detergent or solvent
products.
–


Use a sponge and soapy water or a pH
neutral product.
–


When using a high-pressure washer on
persistent marks, do not keep the lance
directed towards the headlamps, lamps or
their edges for too long, so as not to damage
their protective coating and seals.
Changing a bulb must only be done with
the ignition off and after the headlamp /
lamp has been switched off for several
minutes - risk of serious burns!
Do not touch the bulb directly with your
fingers; use a lint-free cloth.
It is essential only to use anti-ultraviolet
(UV) type bulbs, so as not to damage the
headlamp.
Always replace a failed bulb with a new bulb
of the same type and specification. To avoid
lighting imbalance, replace the bulbs in pairs.