2023 CITROEN C5 X engine

158
Practical information
Engine compartment
The engine shown here is an example for
illustrative purposes only.
The locations of the following elements may
vary:
–
Air filter
.
–

Engine oil dipstick.
–


Engine oil filler cap.
Petrol 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
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.
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.


► Reinsert the dipstick and push fully down,
then pull it out again to visually check the oil

159
Practical information
7level: 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 your engine and complies with the
recommendations in the service schedule
supplied with the vehicle (or available from
your CITROËN dealer or qualified workshop).
Use of non-recommended oil may invalidate
your 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 engine compartment
illustration.
►

Add oil in small quantities, avoiding any spills
on engine components (risk of fire).
►


W
ait 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.
The oil level indication displayed on the instrument panel when the ignition is
switched on is not valid for 30 minutes
following an addition of oil.
Brake fluid
The level of this fluid should be close to
the "MAX" mark. If not, check the brake
pads for 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 level of coolant that is too low risks causing
major damage to the engine; the coolant level
must be close to the "MAX" mark without ever
going above it.
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 the
coolant 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 pre-mixed
product.
In winter (temperatures below zero), a fluid
containing an anti-freeze agent which is
appropriate for the temperature conditions
must be used in order to protect the system's
components (pump, tank, ducts, jets).
Filling with pure water is prohibited in all
circumstances (risk of freezing,
limescale, etc.).
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.

160
Practical information
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 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,
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.
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.
Electric parking brake
This system does not require any routine servicing. However, in the event of a
problem, do not hesitate to have the system
checked by a CITROËN dealer or a qualified
workshop.
For more information on the Electric
parking brake, refer to the
corresponding section.
Wheels and tyres
The inflation pressure of all tyres, including the spare wheel, must be
checked on "cold” tyres.
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.
Under-inflation increases energy
consumption. Non-compliant tyre

161
Practical information
7pressures cause tyres to wear prematurely
and have an adverse effect on the vehicle's
road holding - risk of accident!
Driving with worn or damaged tyres reduces the
braking and road holding performance of the
vehicle. Regularly check the condition of the
tyres (tread and sidewalls) and rims as well as
the presence of the valve caps.
When the wear indicators no longer appear set
back from the tread, the depth of the grooves is
less than 1.6 mm; replace the tyres as soon as
possible.
Using different size wheels and tyres from those
specified can affect the lifetime of tyres, wheel
rotation, ground clearance, the speedometer
reading and have an adverse effect on road
holding.
Fitting different tyres on the front and rear axles
can cause the ESC to mistime.
Always mark the direction of rotation on the tyres
that will be stored when fitting winter or summer
tyres. Store them in a cool, dry place and away
from direct exposure to the sun's rays.
Winter or 4-seasons tyres can be
identified by this symbol on their
sidewalls.
Shock absorbers
It is not easy for drivers to detect when
shock absorbers are worn. Nevertheless,
the shock absorbers have a major impact on
road holding and braking performance.
For your safety and driving comfort, it is
important to have them regularly checked by a
CITROËN dealer or a qualified workshop.
Timing and accessory kits
The timing and accessory kits are used
from the time the engine is started until it
is switched off. It is normal for them to wear over
time.
A
faulty timing or accessory kit can damage
the engine, rendering it unusable. Observe the
recommended replacement frequency, stated in
distance travelled or time elapsed, whichever is
reached first.
Free-wheeling
In certain situations, it is necessary to put the
vehicle in neutral (e.g. towing, on a rolling road,
automatic car wash (Wash mode), rail or sea
transport).
Never leave the vehicle unattended with
the vehicle into free-wheeling mode.
Keyless Entry and Starting
You must not depress the brake pedal
while switching the ignition on again, then
switching it off. If you do, the engine will start,
requiring you to restart the procedure.
/
Release procedure
► With the vehicle stationary and the engine
running, depress the brake pedal and select
mode
N.
Within 5
seconds:
►

Depress and hold the brake pedal, then
observe this order: switch off the engine and
move the push selector forwards or backwards.
►


Release the brake pedal, then switch on the
ignition.
►


Place your foot on the brake and press the
electric parking brake control to release it.
►


Release the brake pedal, then switch off the
ignition.
A message is displayed on the instrument panel to confirm the unlocking
of the wheels for 15 minutes.
When the vehicle is free-wheeling, the
audio system cannot be updated (message
displayed on the instrument panel).
After 15 minutes or to revert to normal
operation
► While depressing the brake pedal, restart the
engine and select mode P
.

162
Practical information
Advice on care and maintenance
General recommendations
Observe the following recommendations to avoid
damaging the vehicle.
Exterior
Never use a high-pressure jet wash in
the engine compartment - risk of
damaging the electrical components!
Do not wash the vehicle in bright sunshine or
extremely cold conditions.
When washing the vehicle in an
automatic roller-brush car wash, be sure
to lock the doors and, depending on version,
move the electronic key away and deactivate
the “hands-free” function (Hands-Free
Tailgate Access).
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 frequently to remove salty deposits (in
coastal areas), soot (in industrial areas) and
mud (in wet or cold areas). These substances
can be highly corrosive.
Contact a CITROËN dealer or a qualified
workshop for 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 jet to clean
the interior.
Liquids carried in cups or other open
containers can spill, presenting a risk of
damage to the instruments and controls and
the controls located on the centre console. Be
vigilant!
To clean instrument panels, touch screens
or other displays, wipe gently with a soft,
dry cloth. Do not use products (e.g. alcohol,
disinfectant) or soapy water directly on these
surfaces - risk of damage!
Bodywork
High-gloss paint
Do not use abrasive products, 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 cloth 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.
Decals
(Depending on version)
Do not use a high-pressure washer to
clean the vehicle - risk of damaging or
detaching the decals!
Use a high-flow hose (temperature
between 25°C and 40°C).
Place the jet of water perpendicular to the
surface to be cleaned.
Rinse the vehicle with demineralised water.

173
In the event of a breakdown
81. Reversing lamps
2. Foglamps
Fuses
Changing a fuse
All work must be carried out only by a
CITROËN dealer or a qualified workshop
The replacement of a fuse by a third party
could cause a serious malfunction of the
vehicle.
Installing electrical accessories
The vehicle's electrical system is
designed to operate with standard or optional
equipment.
Before fitting other electrical equipment
or accessories to your vehicle, contact a
CITROËN dealer or a qualified workshop.
CITROËN accepts no responsibility for
the cost incurred in repairing the vehicle
or for rectifying malfunctions resulting from
the installation of accessories not supplied or
not recommended by CITROËN and not
installed in accordance with its
recommendations, in particular when the
combined power consumption of all of the
additional equipment connected exceeds 10
milliamperes.
12 V battery / Accessory
batteries
Lead-acid starter batteries
These batteries contain harmful
substances (sulphuric acid and lead).
They must be disposed of in accordance
with regulations and must never under any
circumstances be discarded with household
waste.
Take used batteries to a special collection
point.
Protect your eyes and face before
handling the battery.
All operations on the battery must be carried
out in a well ventilated area and away from
naked flames and sources of sparks, to avoid
any risk of explosion or fire.
Wash your hands afterwards.
Electronic control units
Never connect the negative jump lead to
the metal part of the electronic control units.
Risk of destroying the electronic control units!
Connect to the remote earth point provided
for this purpose.
Never try to charge a frozen battery - risk
of explosion!
If the battery has frozen, have it checked by a
CITROËN dealer or by a qualified workshop
who will verify that the internal components
have not been damaged and that the case
has not cracked, which would mean a risk of
toxic and corrosive acid leaking.
Automatic gearbox
Never try to start the engine by pushing
the vehicle.
Symbols
No sparks or naked flames, no smoking.
Always protect your eyes. Explosive gases can cause blindness and injury.
Keep the vehicle's battery out of the reach
of children.
The vehicle's battery contains sulphuric acid which can make you go blind or
cause severe burns.
For more information, refer to the
handbook.
Explosive gases can be present close to
the battery.
With petrol engine
Procedure for starting the engine using another
battery or for charging a discharged battery.

174
In the event of a breakdown
Accessing the battery
The battery is located under the bonnet.

For access to the (+) terminal:
► Release the bonnet by pulling the internal
release lever
, then the external safety catch.
►

Raise the bonnet.
(+)

Positive terminal with a quick-release clamp.
(-) Negative terminal.
As the battery's negative terminal is not
accessible, a remote earth point is located near
the battery.
Starting using another battery
If the vehicle's battery is flat, the engine can be
started using a backup battery (either external or
from another vehicle) and jump leads or using a
battery booster.
Never start the engine by connecting a
battery charger.
Never use a 24
V or higher battery booster.
Check beforehand that the backup battery
has a nominal voltage of 12
V and a capacity
at least equal to that of the discharged
battery.
The two vehicles must not be in contact with
each other.
Switch off all electricity-consuming equipment
on both vehicles (audio system, wipers,
lighting, etc.).
Make sure that the jump leads are well away
from the engine’s moving parts (fan, belt,
etc.).
Do not disconnect the (+) terminal while the
engine is running.


► Lift the plastic cover on the (+) terminal, if the
vehicle has one.
►

Connect the red cable to the (+) terminal of
flat battery

A (at the metal elbow), then to the
(+) terminal of the backup battery
B or of the
booster.
►

Connect one end of the green or black cable
to the (-) terminal of the backup battery

B or of
the booster (or to an earth point on the assisting
vehicle).
► Connect the other end of the green or black
cable to the earth point C .
►

Start the engine on the assisting vehicle and
leave it running for a few minutes.
►


Operate the starter on the broken down
vehicle and let the engine run.
If the engine does not start immediately

, switch
off the ignition and wait a few moments before
trying again.
►

W
ait for it to return to idle.
►

Disconnect the jump leads in reverse order.
►


Refit the plastic cover to the (+) terminal, if
the vehicle has one.
►


Allow the engine to run for at least
30

minutes, with the vehicle stationary, so that
the battery reaches an adequate state of charge.
Driving immediately without having
reached a sufficient level of charge may
affect some of the vehicle's functionalities.
Charging the battery using a battery
charger
For optimum service life of the battery, it is
essential to maintain an adequate state of
charge.
In some circumstances, it may be necessary to
charge the battery:
–

When using the vehicle mainly for short
journeys.
–


If the vehicle is to be taken off the road for
several weeks.

175
In the event of a breakdown
8Contact a CITROËN dealer or a qualified
workshop.
To charge the vehicle's battery yourself, use only a charger compatible with
lead-acid batteries with a nominal voltage of
12

V.
Follow the instructions provided by the
manufacturer of the charger.
Never reverse polarities.
It is not necessary to disconnect the
battery.
►

Switch the ignition off.
►


Switch off all electrical consumers (audio
system, lighting, wipers, etc.).


► Switch off charger B before connecting
the cables to the battery, so as to avoid any
dangerous sparks.
►

Ensure that the charger cables are in good
condition.
► Lift the plastic cover on the (+) terminal, if the
vehicle has one.
►

Connect the cables of charger B

as follows:
•

the positive (+) red cable to the (+) terminal
of battery

A,
•

the negative (-) black cable to earth point C


on the vehicle.
►

At the end of the charging operation, switch
off charger B

before disconnecting the cables
from battery A.
If this label is present, use only a 12 V
charger to avoid causing irreversible
damage to the electrical components
connected to the Stop & Start system.
24V
12V
Disconnecting/reconnecting the
battery
In order to maintain an adequate state of
charge for starting the engine, we recommend
disconnecting the battery if the vehicle is to be
unused for an extended period.
Before disconnecting the battery:
►

Close all openings (doors, boot, windows,
roof). ►


Switch off all electricity-consuming devices
(audio system, wipers, lamps, etc.).
►

Switch off the ignition and wait for 4
minutes.
After accessing the battery, it is only necessary
to disconnect the (+) terminal.
Quick-release terminal clamp
Disconnecting the (+) terminal


► Depending on equipment, lift the plastic cover
on the (+) terminal.
►

Raise lever

A
fully to release clamp
B
.
►

Remove clamp

B
by lifting it off.