2023 CITROEN C4 CACTUS check engine

88
Driving
The following situations may interfere with the operation of the system or
prevent it from working:
– lane markings absent, worn, hidden (snow,
mud) or multiple (roadworks);
– close to the vehicle ahead (lane markings
not detected);
– roads that are narrow, winding, etc.
Lane Departure Warning
System
Refer to the General recommendations on the
use of driving and manoeuvring aids .
This system, using a camera which recognises
solid or broken lines, detects the involuntary
crossing of longitudinal traffic lane markings on
the ground.
If the driver's attention drops and the speed
is higher than 37 mph (60 km/h), the system
triggers a warning if there is an unexpected
change of direction.
This system is particularly useful on motorways
and main roads.


Deactivation of the system is signalled by
the illumination of this warning lamp,
accompanied by the display of a message.
Malfunction
In the event of a fault with the system, you
are alerted by the fixed illumination of this
warning lamp, accompanied by the display of a
message and an audible signal.
Contact a CITROËN dealer or a qualified
workshop to have the system checked.
Distraction detection
Refer to the General recommendations on the
use of driving and manoeuvring aids .
Take a break in case of feeling tired or at least
every 2 hours.
The function consists of the "Coffee Break Alert"
system 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.
Activation / Deactivation
It is set via the Driving / Vehicle touch
screen menu.
The state of the system stays in the memory
when the ignition is switched off.
Coffee Break Alert
The system triggers an alert as soon as it detects that the driver has not taken a
break after two hours of driving at a speed above
40 mph (65
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 40 mph (65 km/h), the
system goes into standby.
The driving time is counted again once the
speed is above 40 mph (65
km/h).
Driver Attention Warning

Using a camera placed at the top of the
windscreen, the system assesses the
driver's level of vigilance, fatigue or distraction by
identifying variations in trajectory compared to
the lane markings.
This system is particularly suited to fast roads
(speed higher than 40 mph (65
km/h)).
At a first-level alert, the driver is warned by the
“Take care! ” message, accompanied by an
audible signal.
After three first-level alerts, the system triggers
a further alert with the message " Dangerous
driving: take a break", accompanied by a more
pronounced audible signal.
In certain driving conditions (poor road
surface or strong winds), the system may
give alerts independent of the driver's level of
vigilance.

95
Practical information
7

► With the vehicle unlocked, press the rear-
central part of the filler flap to open it.
►

T
ake care to select the pump that delivers the
correct fuel type for the vehicle's engine (see a
reminder label on the inside of the filler flap).
►

Insert the key in the filler cap then turn it to
the left, or turn the filler cap manually to the left
(depending on version).


► Remove the filler cap and hang it on its
carrier (on the filler flap).
►

Introduce the filler nozzle and push it in as
far as possible before starting to refuel (risk of
blowback).
►


Fill the tank.
Do not continue past the third cut-off of the
nozzle, as this may cause malfunctions.
►


Refit the filler cap.
►


T
urn the key to the right then remove it from
the filler cap, or turn the filler cap manually to the
right (depending on version).
►

Push the filler flap to close it.
If you have put in the wrong fuel for the
vehicle, you must have the fuel tank
drained and filled with the correct fuel before
starting the engine.
The vehicle is fitted with a catalytic converter, a
device which helps to reduce the level of harmful
emissions in the exhaust gases.
For petrol engines, you must use unleaded
fuel.
The filler neck is narrower, admitting unleaded
petrol nozzles only.
Fuel cut-off
Your vehicle is equipped with a safety device
which cuts off the fuel supply in the event of a
collision.
Misfuel prevention (Diesel)
(Depending on country of sale.)
This mechanical device prevents filling the tank
of a Diesel vehicle with petrol.
Located in the filler neck, the misfuel prevention
device is visible when the filler cap is removed.
Operation
When a petrol filler nozzle is inserted into the
fuel filler neck of a Diesel vehicle, it comes into
contact with the flap. The system remains closed
and prevents filling.
Do not persist but introduce a Diesel type
filler nozzle.
It remains possible to use a fuel jerrycan
to fill the tank.
Travelling abroad
As Diesel fuel pump nozzles may be
different in other countries, the presence
of the misfuel prevention device may make
refuelling impossible.
Before travelling abroad, it is advisable to
check with a CITROËN dealer if the vehicle is
suitable for the distribution equipment of the
countries visited.

96
Practical information
Snow chains
In wintry conditions, snow chains improve
traction as well as the behaviour of the vehicle
when braking.
The snow chains must be fitted only to the front wheels. They must never be
fitted to "space-saver" type spare wheels.
Take account of the legislation specific to each country on the use of snow chains
and the maximum authorised speed.
Use only the chains designed to be fitted to the
type of wheel fitted to your vehicle:
Original tyre size Chain types 205/55 R16 Maximum 9 mm link
205/50 R17 Cannot be fitted with
chains
For more information on snow chains, contact a
CITROËN dealer or a qualified workshop.
Installation tips
► If you have to fit the chains during a journey ,
stop the vehicle on a flat surface on the side of
the road.
►

Apply the parking brake and position any
wheel chocks under the wheels to prevent
movement of your vehicle.
►


Fit the chains following the instructions
provided by the manufacturer

.
► Move off gently and drive for a few moments,
without exceeding 31 mph (50 km/h).
►

Stop your vehicle and check that the snow
chains are correctly tightened.
It is strongly recommended that before
you leave, you practise fitting the snow
chains on a level and dry surface.
Avoid driving with snow chains on roads that have been cleared of snow to avoid
damaging your vehicle's tyres and the road
surface. If your vehicle is fitted with alloy
wheels, check that no part of the chain or its
fixings is in contact with the wheel rim.
Very cold climate screens
Removable protective screens which prevent the
accumulation of snow at the radiator cooling fan.
Before fitting or removing a screen,
ensure that the engine is off and the
cooling fan has stopped.
It is recommended that the screens be
fitted and removed by a CITROËN dealer
or a qualified workshop.
Fitting / Removing

► Present the first screen in front of the upper
grille of the bumper .
►

Insert the 4 lower mounting tabs and the 4
upper mounting tabs in the bumper until they
click into position.
►


Check that the unit is firmly held by pressing
around the edges.


► Present the second screen in front of the
lower grille of the bumper .

97
Practical information
7► Insert the 4 lower mounting tabs and the 4
upper mounting tabs in the bumper until they
click into position, starting from the outside and
working inwards.
►

Check that the unit is firmly held by pressing
around the edges.
T

o remove these screens, perform the same
sequence of operations in reverse order.


► Present the third screen in front of the lower
grille of the bumper .
►

Insert the 4 lower mounting tabs in the
bumper

.
►

Push the upper part of the screen against the
bumper until the 5 upper mounting tabs click into
position in the bumper

.
►

Check that the unit is firmly held by pressing
around the edges.
To remove the screen, push it down to unclip
the upper mounting tabs, then pull the screen
towards you.
Towing device
Distribution of loads
► Distribute the load in the trailer so that the
heaviest items are as close as possible to the
axle, and the nose weight approaches the
maximum permitted without exceeding it.
Air density decreases with altitude, thus reducing
engine performance.
The maximum load which
can be towed must be reduced by 10% per
1,000
metres of altitude.
Use towing devices and their genuine
wiring harnesses approved by CITROËN.
It is recommended that the installation be
performed by a CITROËN dealer or a
qualified workshop.
If not fitted by a CITROËN dealer, it must
still be fitted in accordance with the vehicle
manufacturer's instructions.
Certain driving or manoeuvring aid functions
are automatically deactivated if an approved
towing system is used.
Observe the maximum authorised
towable weight, indicated on the vehicle's
registration certificate, the manufacturer's
label as well as in the Technical data section
of this guide.
Complying with the maximum authorised
nose weight (towball) also includes the
use of accessories (bicycle carriers, tow
boxes, etc.).
Observe the legislation in force in the
country in which you are driving.
Remove the quickly detachable towball
when not towing a trailer.
Load reduction mode
System which manages the use of certain
functions according to the level of charge
remaining in the battery.
When the vehicle is being driven, the load
reduction function temporarily deactivates certain
functions, such as air conditioning, heated rear
screen, etc.
The deactivated functions are reactivated
automatically as soon as conditions permit.
Energy economy mode
System which manages the duration of use of
certain functions to conserve a sufficient level of
charge in the battery.
After the engine has stopped, you can still use
functions such as the audio and telematics

100
Practical information
Do not discard used oil or fluids into
sewers or onto the ground.
Empty used oil into the containers reserved
for this purpose at a CITROËN dealer or a
qualified workshop.
Engine oil
The level is checked, with the engine having been switched off for at least 30
minutes and on level ground, either using the oil
level indicator in the instrument panel when the
ignition is switched on (for vehicles equipped
with an electric gauge), or using the dipstick.
It is normal to top up the oil level between two
services (or oil changes). It is recommended
that you check the level, and top up if necessary,
every 3,000 miles (5,000 km).
In order to maintain the reliability of the
engine and emissions control system,
never use additives in the engine oil.
Checking using the dipstick
For the location of the dipstick, please refer
to the illustration of the corresponding engine
compartment.
► Grasp the dipstick by its coloured grip and
pull it out completely.
► Wipe the end of the dipstick using a clean,
lint-free cloth.


► Unclip the stay from its housing and place it
in the support slot to hold the bonnet open.
Closing
► Hold the bonnet and pull out the stay from the
support slot.
►

Clip the stay in its housing.
►


Lower the bonnet and release it near the end
of its travel.
►


Pull on the bonnet to check that it is locked
correctly

.
Because of the presence of electrical
equipment under the bonnet, it is strongly
recommended that exposure to water (rain,
washing, etc.) be limited.
Engine compartment
The engine represented is an example given for
illustration purposes only. The locations of the following elements may
vary:
–

Air filter
.
–
Engine oil dipstick.
–

Engine oil filler cap.
Petrol engine

Diesel engine

1.
Screenwash fluid reservoir
2. Engine coolant reservoir
3. Brake fluid reservoir
4. Battery / Fuses
5. Remote earth point (-)
6. Fusebox
7. Air filter
8. Engine oil filler cap
9. Engine oil dipstick
The Diesel fuel system operates under
very high pressure.
All work on this circuit must be carried out
only by a CITROËN dealer or a qualified
workshop.
Checking levels
Check all of the following levels regularly in
accordance with the manufacturer's service
schedule. Top them up if required, unless
otherwise indicated.
If a level drops significantly, have the
corresponding system checked by a CITROËN
dealer or a qualified workshop.
The fluids must comply with the manufacturer's requirements and with
the vehicle's engine.
Take care when working under the bonnet, as certain areas of the engine
may be extremely hot (risk of burns) and the
cooling fan could start at any time (even with
the ignition off).
Used products
Avoid prolonged contact of used oil or fluids with the skin.
Most of these fluids are harmful to health and
very corrosive.

101
Practical information
7Do not discard used oil or fluids into
sewers or onto the ground.
Empty used oil into the containers reserved
for this purpose at a CITROËN dealer or a
qualified workshop.
Engine oil
The level is checked, with the engine having been switched off for at least 30
minutes and on level ground, either using the oil
level indicator in the instrument panel when the
ignition is switched on (for vehicles equipped
with an electric gauge), or using the dipstick.
It is normal to top up the oil level between two
services (or oil changes). It is recommended
that you check the level, and top up if necessary,
every 3,000 miles (5,000 km).
In order to maintain the reliability of the
engine and emissions control system,
never use additives in the engine oil.
Checking using the dipstick
For the location of the dipstick, please refer
to the illustration of the corresponding engine
compartment.
►

Grasp the dipstick by its coloured grip and
pull it out completely

.
►

Wipe the end of the dipstick using a clean,
lint-free cloth.


► Reinsert the dipstick and push fully down,
then pull it out again to visually check the oil
level: the correct level is between marks A
(max)
and B (min).
Do not start the engine if the level is:
–

above mark
A: contact a CITROËN dealer or a
qualified workshop.
–

below mark B

: top up the engine oil
immediately.
Oil grade
Before topping up or changing the engine
oil, check that the oil is suitable for the engine
and complies with the recommendations in
the service schedule supplied with the vehicle
(or available from your CITROËN dealer and
qualified workshops).
Use of non-recommended oil may invalidate
the contractual warranty in the event of
engine failure.
Topping up the engine oil level
For the location of the engine oil filler cap, please
refer to the corresponding under-bonnet engine
compartment illustration.
►

Add oil in small quantities, avoiding any spills
on engine components (risk of fire).
► Wait a few minutes before checking the level
again using the dipstick.
►

T
op up the level if necessary.
►

After checking the level, carefully screw the
oil filler cap back on

and replace the dipstick in
its tube.
Within 30 minutes of adding oil, the oil
level indication in the instrument panel
when the ignition is switched on is not valid.
Brake fluid
The level of this fluid should be close to
the "MAX" mark. If not, check the brake
pad wear.
To know how often the brake fluid should be
replaced, refer to the manufacturer's servicing
schedule.
Clean the cap before removing it to refill.
Use only DOT4 brake fluid from a sealed
container.
Engine coolant
It is normal to top up this fluid between
two services.
The check and top-up must only be done with
the engine cold.
A low level presents a risk of serious damage to
the engine.
The level of this fluid should be close to the
"MAX" mark but should never exceed it.

102
Practical information
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 saturation of the particle filter
is signalled by the temporary illumination
of this warning lamp, accompanied by a
message warning of the risk of the filter clogging
up.
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.
If the level is close to or below the " MIN” mark, it
is essential to top up.
When the engine is hot, the temperature of this
fluid is regulated by the fan.
As the cooling system is pressurised, wait at
least one hour after switching off the engine
before carrying out any work.
In order to avoid the risk of scalding if you need
to top up in an emergency, wrap a cloth around
the cap and unscrew the cap by two turns to
allow the pressure to drop.
Once the pressure has dropped, remove the cap
and top up to the required level.
Screenwash fluid
Top up to the required level when necessary.
Fluid specification
The fluid must be topped up with a ready-to-use
mixture.
In winter (temperatures below zero), a liquid
containing an agent to prevent freezing must
be used which is appropriate for the prevailing
conditions, in order to protect the elements of the
system (pump, tank, ducts, jets, etc.).
Filling with pure water is prohibited under
all circumstances (risk of freezing,
limestone deposits, etc.).
Diesel fuel additive (Diesel
with particle filter)
On reaching the minimum level in the
particle filter additive tank, this warning
lamp comes on fixed, accompanied by an
audible warning and a message warning that the
additive level is too low.
Topping up
This additive must be topped up without delay by
a CITROËN dealer or a qualified workshop.
AdBlue (BlueHDi)
An alert is triggered when the reserve level is
reached.
For more information on 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 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.
However, 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 of
specific technology and specification.
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,

103
Practical information
7city 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 saturation of the particle filter
is signalled by the temporary illumination
of this warning lamp, accompanied by a
message warning of the risk of the filter clogging
up.
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 the
emission of water vapour at the exhaust on
acceleration. This does not affect the
behaviour of the vehicle or the environment.
New vehicle
The first particle filter regeneration
operations may be accompanied by a
"burning" smell, which 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/drum wear
For any information on checking brake
disc/drum wear, contact a CITROËN
dealer or a qualified workshop.
Parking brake
If excessive travel or a loss of
effectiveness of this system is noticed, the
parking brake must be checked, even between
two services.
This system must be checked by a CITROËN
dealer or a qualified workshop.
Wheels and tyres
The pressure must be checked on all tyres, including the spare wheel, when the
tyres are "cold".
The pressures indicated on the tyre pressure
label are valid for "cold" tyres. If you have driven
for more than 10 minutes or more than 6 miles
(10 kilometres) at over 31 mph (50
km/h), add
0.3 bar (30 kPa) to the values indicated on the
label.
Driving with under-inflated tyres
increases fuel consumption. Non-
compliant tyre pressure causes premature
wear on tyres and has an adverse effect on