2023 CITROEN C4 CACTUS engine

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

104
Practical information
Storage recommendations
AdBlue® freezes at about -11°C and deteriorates
above +25°C. Containers should be stored in a
cool area and protected from direct sunlight.
Under these conditions, the fluid can be kept for
at least a year.
If the fluid has frozen, it can be used once it has
completely thawed out in the ambient air.
Never store AdBlue® containers in your
vehicle.
Precautions for use
AdBlue® is a urea-based solution. This fluid is
non-flammable, colourless and odourless (when
kept in a cool place).
In the event of contact with the skin, wash the
affected area with soap and running water. In the
event of contact with the eyes, immediately rinse
the eyes with large amounts of water or with an
eye wash solution for at least 15 minutes. Seek
medical attention if you feel a persistent burning
sensation or irritation.
If swallowed, immediately wash out the mouth
with clean water and then drink plenty of water.
In certain conditions (high temperature, for
example), the risk of release of ammonia cannot
be excluded: do not inhale the fluid. Ammonia
vapours have an irritant effect on mucous
membranes (eyes, nose and throat).
Store AdBlue® out of the reach of
children, in its original container.
the vehicle's road holding - risk of an
accident! Driving with worn or damaged tyres reduces the
braking and road holding performance of the
vehicle. It is recommended to regularly check the
condition of the tyres (tread and sidewalls) and
wheel rims as well as the presence of the valves.

Using different size wheels and tyres from those
specifi ed can affect the lifetime of tyres, wheel
rotation, ground clearance, the speedometer
reading and have an adverse e

ffect on road
holding.
Fitting different tyres on the front and rear axles
can cause the ESC to mistime.
AdBlue ®
(BlueHDi)
To respect the environment and ensure compliance with the Euro 6 standard, without
adversely affecting the performance or fuel
consumption of its Diesel engines, CITROËN
has taken the decision to equip its vehicles
with a system that associates SCR (Selective
Catalytic Reduction) with a Diesel Particle Filter (DPF) for the treatment of exhaust gases.
SCR System
Using a liquid called AdBlue ®
that contains
urea, a catalytic converter turns up to 85% of
the nitrogen oxides (NOx) into nitrogen and
water, which are harmless to health and the
environment.
The AdBlue® is contained in a special
tank holding about 17 litres.
Its capacity allows a driving range of
approximately 5,600
miles (9,000 km), which
may vary considerably depending on your
driving style.
An alert system is triggered once the reserve
level is reached: it is then possible to drive for a
further 1,500 miles (2,400
km) before the tank is
empty and the vehicle blocked.
If the estimated distance travelled by the vehicle
between two services is greater than 12,500
miles (20,000 km), it will be necessary to top up
the AdBlue.
For more information on the Warning
and indicator lamps and the associated
alerts, or the Indicators, please refer to the
corresponding sections.
Once the AdBlue® tank is empty, a
system required by legislation prevents
starting of the engine.
If the SCR system is faulty, the level of
emissions from the vehicle will no longer meet
the Euro 6 standard: the vehicle becomes
polluting.
In the event of a confirmed SCR system
malfunction, it is essential to visit a CITROËN
dealer or a qualified workshop. After 680
miles (1,100 km), a device is automatically
activated to prevent the engine from starting.
In both cases, a range indicator indicates
the distance that can be travelled before the
vehicle is stopped.
Freezing of the AdBlue®
AdBlue® freezes at temperatures below
around -11°C.
The SCR system includes a heater for the
AdBlue
® tank, allowing you to continue driving
in very cold conditions.
Supply of AdBlue®
It is recommended that the AdBlue® be topped
up as soon as the first alert is issued indicating
that the reserve level has been reached.
For the correct operation of the SCR
system:
–
Use only AdBlue® fluid that meets the ISO
22241 standard.
–
Never transfer

AdBlue
® to another container
as it would lose its purity.
–
Never dilute AdBlue® with water.
It is possible to obtain AdBlue
® from a CITROËN
dealer or a qualified workshop.
You can also visit a service station equipped with AdBlue® pumps specially
designed for passenger vehicles.
Never top up from an AdBlue® dispenser
reserved for heavy goods vehicles.

105
Practical information
7Storage recommendations
AdBlue® freezes at about -11°C and deteriorates
above +25°C. Containers should be stored in a
cool area and protected from direct sunlight.
Under these conditions, the fluid can be kept for
at least a year.
If the fluid has frozen, it can be used once it has
completely thawed out in the ambient air.
Never store AdBlue® containers in your
vehicle.
Precautions for use
AdBlue® is a urea-based solution. This fluid is
non-flammable, colourless and odourless (when
kept in a cool place).
In the event of contact with the skin, wash the
affected area with soap and running water. In the
event of contact with the eyes, immediately rinse
the eyes with large amounts of water or with an
eye wash solution for at least 15 minutes. Seek
medical attention if you feel a persistent burning
sensation or irritation.
If swallowed, immediately wash out the mouth
with clean water and then drink plenty of water.
In certain conditions (high temperature, for
example), the risk of release of ammonia cannot
be excluded: do not inhale the fluid. Ammonia
vapours have an irritant effect on mucous
membranes (eyes, nose and throat).
Store AdBlue® out of the reach of
children, in its original container.
Procedure
Before starting the top-up procedure, ensure that
the vehicle is parked on a flat and level surface.
In wintry conditions, ensure that the temperature
of the vehicle is above -11
°C. Otherwise, the
AdBlue
® may be frozen and therefore cannot
be poured into its tank. Park your vehicle in a
warmer area for a few hours to allow the top-up
to be carried out.
Never pour AdBlue® into the Diesel fuel
tank.
If any AdBlue® is splashed, or if there are
any spillages on the bodywork, rinse
immediately with cold water or wipe with a
damp cloth.
If the fluid has crystallised, clean it off using a
sponge and hot water.
Important: in the event of a top-up after
a breakdown because of a lack of
AdBlue, it is essential to wait around 5
minutes before switching on the ignition,
without opening the driver’s door,
unlocking the vehicle, introducing the key
into the ignition switch, or introducing the
key of the “Keyless Entry and Starting

”
system into the passenger compartment

.
Switch on the ignition, then wait for 10
seconds before starting the engine.
► Switch off the ignition and remove the key
from the switch to switch off the engine.
or
►

With Keyless Entry and Starting, press the
"

START/STOP" button to switch off the engine.


► With the vehicle unlocked and the fuel filler
flap open, turn the blue cap of the AdBlue® tank
anti-clockwise and remove it.
►

With a bottle or container of

AdBlue
®: after
checking the expiry date, read the instructions
on the label carefully before pouring the contents
into the vehicle's AdBlue tank.
►

With an


AdBlue® pump: introduce the nozzle
and fill the tank until the nozzle automatically
cuts out.
In order not to overfill the AdBlue® tank:
–
Add between 10 and 13 litres using
AdBlue® containers.
–
Stop after the nozzle’ s first automatic cut-
out, if you are refilling at a service station.
The system only registers AdBlue
® top-ups of
5

litres or more.
If the AdBlue® tank is completely empty
– which is confirmed by the message

106
Practical information
For the care of the stickers in the rear
door windows (quarter panels), we
recommend the following:
– Use a wide jet at a temperature of between
25°C and 40°C.
– Where possible, direct the jet at right
angles to the stickers."Top up AdBlue: Starting impossible" – it is
essential to add at least 5 litres.
After refilling
► Refit the blue cap to the tank filler and turn it
clockwise, as far as it will go.
►

Close the fuel filler flap.
Do not dispose of AdBlue® bottles or
containers in the household waste.
Place them in a container reserved for this
purpose or take them back to where you
purchased them.
Advice on care and maintenance
General recommendations
Observe the following recommendations to avoid
damaging your vehicle.
Exterior
Never use a high-pressure jet wash in
the engine compartment, due to the risk
of damaging electrical components.
Do not wash the vehicle in strong sunshine or
extremely cold conditions.
When washing the vehicle at an
automatic roller-brush car wash, be sure
to lock the doors and, depending on version,
remove the electronic key.
When using a pressure washer, hold the
lance at least 30 cm from the vehicle
(particularly when cleaning areas containing
chipped paint, sensors or seals).
Promptly clean up any stains containing
chemicals liable to damage the vehicle's paint
(including tree resin, bird droppings, insect
secretions, pollen and tar).
If justified by the environment, clean the
vehicle more frequently to remove salty
deposits (in coastal areas), soot (in industrial
estates) and mud (in wet or cold areas).
These substances can be highly corrosive.
Contact a CITROËN dealer or a qualified
workshop if you require advice on removing
stubborn stains requiring special products
(such as tar or insect removers).
Preferably, have paint touch-ups performed
by a CITROËN dealer or a qualified
workshop.
Interior
When washing the vehicle, never use a
water hose or high-pressure washer to
clean the interior.
Liquids carried in cups or other open
containers can spill, presenting a risk of
damage if they come into contact with the
controls in the dashboard and centre console.
Take care!
Bodywork
High-gloss paint
Do not use abrasive products or
solvents, petrol or oil to clean the
bodywork.
Never use an abrasive sponge to clean
stubborn stains. Risk of scratching the
paintwork!
Do not apply polish in strong sunshine, or to
plastic or rubber parts.
Use a soft sponge and soapy water or a
pH neutral product.
Gently wipe the bodywork with a clean
microfibre cloth.
Apply polish with the vehicle clean and dry.
Comply with the instructions for use stated on
the product.
Care of the stickers
These styling stickers are treated to give good
resistance to ageing and tearing.
They have been designed to allow you to
customise your vehicle's bodywork.
When washing your vehicle, keep the high-
pressure lance tip at least 30 cm away from the
stickers.

108
In the event of a breakdown
Warning triangle (storage)
This safety device is used in addition to the
hazard warning lamps.
Its presence in the vehicle is mandatory.
The triangle may be stowed under the boot
carpet (in the storage well) or, depending on
version, under the front passenger seat.
Before leaving your vehicle to set up and
install the triangle, switch on the hazard
warning lamps and put on your high visibility
vest.


Refer to the manufacturer's instructions
on using the triangle.
Placing the triangle on the
road
► Place the triangle behind the vehicle, as
required by the legislation in force in your
country
.
The triangle is available as an accessory; contact a CITROËN dealer or a qualified
workshop.
Running out of fuel
(Diesel)
With Diesel engines, the fuel system must be
primed if you run out of fuel.
Before starting to prime the system, it is
essential to put at least 5 litres of Diesel into the
fuel tank.
For more information on Refuelling and
on Misfuel prevention (Diesel), please
refer to the corresponding section.
BlueHDi engines
► Switch on the ignition (without starting the
engine).
►

W
ait around 1 minute and switch off the
ignition.
►

Operate the starter motor to start the engine.
If the engine does not start at the first attempt,
do not keep trying, but restart the procedure.
Temporary puncture repair kit
Scan the QR Code on page 3 to view
explanatory videos.
Made up of a compressor and a sealant
cartridge,
it allows you to carry out a temporary
repair of the tyre so that you can drive to the
nearest garage.
It is designed to repair most punctures located
on the tyre tread.
Only the 12 V socket at the front of the
vehicle allows the compressor to be
connected for long enough to repair or inflate
the vehicle tyre.
The other 12 V sockets of the vehicle are not
designed to be used with the compressor.
Access to the kit

This kit is installed in the storage box, under the
boot floor.
List of tools
1. Temporary puncture repair kit.
Contains a sealant cartridge for the
temporary repair of a tyre and can also be
used for adjusting tyre pressures.
2. Socket for the security bolts (located in the
glove box or in the tool box) (depending on
version).
For adapting the wheelbrace to the special
"security" bolts.
3. Removable towing eye.
For more information on Towing the vehicle
and using the removable towing eye, refer to the
corresponding section.

11 2
In the event of a breakdown
5.Socket for the security bolts (located in the
glove box or in the tool box) (depending on
version).
For adapting the wheelbrace to the special
"security" bolts.
For more information on Towing, please refer to
the corresponding section.
These tools are specific to the vehicle and may vary according to the level of
equipment.
Do not use them for any other purpose.
The jack must only be used to change a wheel with a damaged or punctured tyre.
Do not use any jack other than the one
supplied with the vehicle.
If the vehicle does not have its original jack,
contact a CITROËN dealer or a qualified
workshop to obtain the one that was intended
by the manufacturer.
The jack meets European standards, as
defined in the Machinery Directive 2006/42/
CE.
The jack does not require any maintenance.
Access to the spare wheel

The spare wheel is installed in the boot, under
the floor.
Depending on engine, the spare wheel is a
standard wheel or the space-saver type.
Taking out the wheel

► Unclip and take out the tool storage box.
► Unscrew the central nut.
►

Remove the fixing parts (nut and bolt).
► Raise the spare wheel towards the back of
the boot.
►

T
ake the wheel out of the boot.
Putting the spare wheel back in place

► 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.
►

Depending on version, put the tool box back
in place

in the middle of the wheel and clip it in
place.
If there is no wheel in the well, the
fastening device (nut and bolt) cannot be
refitted.
Removing a wheel
Parking the vehicle
Immobilise the vehicle where it does not
block traffic: the ground must be level, stable
and non-slippery.
With a manual gearbox, engage first gear
then switch off the ignition to block the
wheels.
With an automatic gearbox, place the gear
selector in position P then switch off the
ignition to block the wheels.
Apply the parking brake and check that the
warning lamp is on in the instrument panel.
The occupants must get out of the vehicle
and wait where they are safe.
Never go underneath a vehicle raised using a
jack; use an axle stand.
Wheel with wheel trim
When refitting the wheel, refit the wheel
trim, starting by placing its aperture in line
with the valve and then pushing it into place
all round its edge with the palm of your hand.