Citroën C4 Picasso

In 1998, Citroën introduced the Xsara Picasso, a van built on the chassis of the compact Xsara. The practical and interestingly stylized car was warmly received in the market. The scenario was repeated in 2006 when the company introduced the C4 Picasso, a van assembled on the chassis of the compact C4. Technically, the debutant was much more advanced than its predecessor. It also made an impression and a futuristic appearance. The model has stood the test of time well. Although his appearance today is no longer shocking, he still looks attractive. It's good for the eye and the interior. The instrument panel Citroën C4 Picasso received an unconventional look. Classic pointers were replaced by a liquid crystal display, and placed it in the center of the front panel. Below is the audio system panel. The ventilation control buttons are located in the left and right corners of the front panel. The driver is given more options for managing the climate in the cabin. The front passenger only got the temperature control buttons. A distinctive feature is a steering wheel with a fixed hub. Unusual solution that does not interfere with daily operation. However, a lot of buttons on the steering wheel need to get used to. Good materials are used in the interior. The accuracy and quality of the assembly do not cause any comments. Not disappointing and the main qualities of vans – space and functionality. There are enough compartments inside to store the little stuff. The feeling of spaciousness enhances the large area of the windshield, double racks with triangular windows, as well as a low line of windows. The suspension is very effective in absorbing irregularities, which, combined with a good interior and comfortable seats, creates a feeling of high comfort. The top version of the Citroen C4 Picasso received laminated side windows that reduce noise levels. The advantage of Citroen Picasso is a rich equipment. Most of the instances have climate control, audio system, on-board computer, parking sensors, rain and light sensors. Many cars also received a smell dispenser built into the front panel. Little change, that's nice. The C4 Picasso was updated in the second half of 2010.

Engines

The line of gasoline engines is formed by power units with a working volume of 1.6 liters (120, 150 and 156 hp), 1.8 liters (125 hp) and 2.0 l (140 hp).

Preferring turbo diesel can choose a 1.6-liter (109 or 112 hp) or 2-liter (136, 150 and 163 hp).

The 1.6 e-HDi engines are jokingly called Citroën microhybrids. They have a Start-Stop system and a function of energy recovery during braking.

Gasoline engines

The safest for the pocket are gasoline 1.8 and 2.0 liters of the EW series. They have a reliable and time-tested design. Let the engines do not demonstrate phenomenal performance and are not sufficiently economical, but compensate for their shortcomings with durability and ease of maintenance.

However, at high mileages, they are prone to consuming oil. Sometimes the oil consumption reaches 1 liter per 10,000 km. Due to the low cost of the machine, almost no one dares to repair the engine. Attention should also be paid to the operation of hydraulic valve pushers.

Prince

The new generation EP (Prince) 1.6 VTi and 1.6 THP engines were developed in conjunction with BMW. But they are not without flaws. These units had problems with the tensioner of the chain and the chain itself, which was prematurely stretched (12,000 rubles plus 6000 rubles for work).

In addition, the star was connected to the camshaft not with a tongue or groove, but with glue. Sometimes, the connection weakened, and the stars on the camshafts turned. Fortunately, this usually does not lead to loss of motor. The defect must be corrected today.

The 1.6 THP uses direct fuel injection. This can lead to deposits in the intake manifold and on the intake valves, causing a loss of power. Professional cleaning costs around 5–8 thousand rubles.

The engine malfunction can be caused by a faulty electromagnetic valve of the gas distribution mechanism - OCV (Oil Control Valve). Solenoids are installed on each camshaft (2-3 thousand rubles per piece).

There have been previous leaks of coolant. The fault was eliminated by tightening the bolts of the cylinder head. The thermostat could also bring it up (3-6 thousand rubles).

Additional problems are created by the bursting hot part of the turbine and TNVD.

Diesel engines

1.6 HDi complied with Euro 4 emission standards until 2010, with 2 camshafts and 16 valves. The engine is quiet, dynamic and very economical. Sometimes turbodiesel caused concern due to the accumulation of sludge. In addition to the irregularly shaped oil pallet, the situation was exacerbated by leaky fuel injectors. Diesel fuel was mixed with engine oil and turned into a mass similar to fuel oil. The mesh reached the walls of the cylinders, from where the piston rings sent it to the oil pan. As a result, the sludge accumulated and clogged the lubrication system. Most often, the permeability of the oil supply line to the turbine was violated, which accelerated its wear (20-36 thousand rubles). Prevention is the replacement of gaskets under the nozzles and reducing the interval of oil change. Since 2010, 1.6 HDi has been Euro 5 compliant. The new version is no longer prone to accumulation of sludge, although the shape of the pallet remained the same. This is due to the Common Rail injection system. Instead of reliable electromagnetic nozzles Bosch began to use capricious piezoelectric Siemens. The defective nozzles started to make noise. It is noteworthy that 1.6 e-HDi, although it appeared later, but remained with Bosch electromagnetic nozzles. An unpleasant surprise can also leave a cracked plastic probe measuring the level of oil in the engine. Retrieving his remains is not an easy operation. To avoid unnecessary problems in the future, it is better to purchase a new probe immediately after purchase. In the turbodiesels Citroen C4 Picasso installed so-called wet filter of particulate matter.

Transmission

The reliable 6-speed automatic transmission Aisin meets with the strongest engine options – 2.0 16V and 2.0 HDi 163 hp.

In the weaker versions, an automated transmission designated ESG or CMP (BMP6) was installed as an option or in the database – depending on the destination market. This transmission is not the optimal choice. It slowly shifts gears and sometimes requires repairs due to wear of bearings (42 000 rubles).

The clutch is also not in the category of reliable. It happens that it needs to be changed before reaching 100,000 km, and the replacement is an expensive procedure (13,000 rubles). This is due to the fact that after installing a new clutch set, it is necessary to adapt the box - to teach new threshold values (find the clutch points). At the same time, regular calibration will allow you to get rid of jerks and save clutch (37-42 thousand rubles per set).

The clutch of the manual transmission usually reaches 150-200 thousand km. The new clutch set is available for 8-12 thousand rubles.

The 4-speed AlL4/DP0 can be found among the petrol versions with 1.6 THP and 2.0 engines. Contrary to fears, the box does not cause any serious trouble. The only weak point is electromagnetic valves, which have to be updated every 60-80 thousand km (2-4 thousand rubles for the valve plus 3000 rubles for work).

Walking

A design miscalculation can cause the steering wheel to vibrate at speeds of about 120 km/h, such as when braking. The rear Silentblock of the lower front transverse lever was too soft. Subsequently, the manufacturer began to install a more rigid Silent block, which usually eliminated the problem. Usually, the silent blocks of the front levers (from 300 rubles per analog) are surrendered after 120-150 thousand km, and the rear beam (1.4-2.3 thousand rubles) - after 150-200 t. km. Ball supports (400-800 rubles) "signal" after 80-120 thousand km. Much more expensive is the restoration of the air suspension of the rear axle, which is found on the most expensive versions, both in the conventional and elongated version of Picasso. This is the so-called nivomat, which includes a control unit, a compressor, two clearance sensors and a pair of pneumoelements. The latter are the weak spot. For two cylinders from China will have to pay more than 10 000 rubles. The original element will cost 17 000 rubles. When the failure of the pneumatic cylinders, some owners prefer to replace the rear air suspension with a conventional spring. A set with springs and stops under them costs more than 8000 rubles. But the system has its merits. It is able to maintain the height of the feed regardless of the load. The second advantage is the ability to lower the rear edge for ease of loading. This is done with a button. The stern shall be returned to its starting position after exceeding the speed of 10 km/h or by means of a button. Front hub bearings can make noise after 150-200 thousand km. They change separately - 2-4 thousand rubles.

Other problems and malfunctions

In specimens older than 10-12 years, rapids often begin to corrose, sometimes rotting to holes. Repair of one party will require costs in the amount of 8-12 thousand rubles.

From time to time, the electrician begins to live his life. Often this is the faulty block of BSM fuses, which is poured with water from the windshield (for example, after unprofessional repairs).

Cheaper, but more difficult to fix the various errors reported by electronics. The best way to deal with the problem is to auto repair shops specializing in repairing Citroen.

Door locks can also be brought in - micro-switches fail. And interruptions in the operation of the electric drive of the glasses usually pass after cleaning the contacts of the driver's control unit windows.

After 200-250 thousand km can make noise or "silence" the engine of the stove. It is only in the original and costs about 16 000 rubles. Sometimes the motor can be repaired for 2000 rubles. In extreme cases, after a minor revision, you can install an analogue from Gazelle for 1300 rubles.

Soon the radiator of the air conditioner is also handed over (27 000 rubles for the original or 7000 rubles for an analogue).

In reliability reports, the Citroën C4 Picasso is not the most problematic car

In the TUV C4 rankings, Picasso was at the bottom half of the list. Experts drew attention to frequent problems with lighting, suspension, brake system and oil leakage from the transmission.

DEKRA had a better opinion. With a run of up to 100,000 km, the model did not deviate beyond the average indicators in the minivan segment. After 100,000 to 150,000 km, Picasso is less of a problem than the typical class representative. Most often, worn pads and brake discs, lighting malfunctions, tired racks and worn-out silenth blocks were found.

DEKRA reminded of a thorough inspection of the windshield. Replacement due to cracks or large chips will seriously hit the pocket - from 8000 to 15000 rubles.

Recommended engines

1.8 16V: Not showing outstanding performance, but simple, unpretentious and reliable. It tolerates the installation of a system for working on gas. The cost of possible repairs will not be burdensome. Even better – 2-liter engine, but it was equipped exclusively with automatic transmissions. The more modern 1.6-liter turbo engine is the result of a joint cooperation between PSA and BMW. It has good characteristics, but often causes problems with the chain drive of the valve timing.

Diesel 1.6 HDi: In the case of diesel engines, the choice is not easy. 2.0 HDi provides good performance and is considered more reliable than 1.6 HDi. However, the C4 Picasso with a 2.0 HDi under the hood and a small mileage is far from cheap. The 1.6 HDi is more affordable. On paper, the engine power of 109/112 hp is not impressive, but the torque is high at 240/270 Nm. At the same time, it should not be forgotten that after 150,000 km, the diesel unit may require significant additional investment. The bill for a twin flywheel, a new turbocharger and a particulate filter will be several thousand dollars.

Deficiencies

• operation and durability of the automated transmission

Gasoline versions

**M is mechanical, A is automatic, AM is automated;

*** Fuel consumption in the EU: city / country / mixed

Diesel versions

**M is mechanical, A is automatic, AM is automated;

*** Fuel consumption in the EU: city / country / mixed

Gasoline engines

• They have a reliable and time-tested design.
• Due to the low cost of the machine, almost no one dares to repair the engine.
• Attention should also be paid to the operation of hydraulic valve pushers.

Prince

• These units had problems with the tensioner of the chain and the chain itself, which was prematurely stretched (12,000 rubles plus 6000 rubles for work).
• Fortunately, this usually does not lead to loss of motor.
• The engine malfunction can be caused by a faulty electromagnetic valve of the gas distribution mechanism - OCV (Oil Control Valve).
• The fault was eliminated by tightening the bolts of the cylinder head. The thermostat could also bring it up (3-6 thousand rubles).
• Additional problems are created by the bursting hot part of the turbine and TNVD.

Diesel engines

• Most often, the permeability of the oil supply line to the turbine was violated, which accelerated its wear (20-36 thousand rubles).
• Prevention is the replacement of gaskets under the nozzles and reducing the interval of oil change.
• Instead of reliable electromagnetic nozzles Bosch began to use capricious piezoelectric Siemens. The defective nozzles started to make noise.
• 6 e-HDi, although later, remained with Bosch's electromagnetic nozzles.
• To avoid unnecessary problems in the future, it is better to purchase a new probe immediately after purchase.
• There is no problem of liquefying engine oil due to an excess of unburned fuel, and the filter better tolerates frequent trips over short distances.
• The FAP filter will probably be replaced after 180,000 to 200,000 km.
• In order to maximize the service life of the system, you need to try to refuel a full tank.

Transmission

• It slowly shifts gears and sometimes requires repairs due to wear of bearings (42 000 rubles).
• It happens that it needs to be changed before reaching 100,000 km, and the replacement is an expensive procedure (13,000 rubles).
• This is due to the fact that after installing a new clutch set, it is necessary to adapt the box - to teach new threshold values (find the clutch points).
• The only weak point is the electromagnetic valves, which have to be renewed every 60-80 thousand km (2-4 thousand).

Walking

• Subsequently, the manufacturer began to install a more rigid Silent block, which usually eliminated the problem.
• But in case of extreme need bearings can also be overpressed (2-4 thousand).

Other problems and malfunctions

• In specimens older than 10-12 years, rapids often begin to corrose, sometimes rotting to holes.
• Repair of one party will require costs in the amount of 8-12 thousand rubles.
• Often this is the faulty block of BSM fuses, which is poured with water from the windshield (for example, after unprofessional repairs).
• The best way to deal with the problem is to auto repair shops specializing in repairing Citroen.
• Sometimes the motor can be repaired for 2000 rubles.

In reliability reports, the Citroën C4 Picasso is not the most problematic car

• Experts drew attention to frequent problems with lighting, suspension, brake system and oil leakage from the transmission.
• Picasso km is less problematic than a typical representative in the class.
• Most often, worn pads and brake discs, lighting malfunctions, tired racks and worn-out silenth blocks were found.
• DEKRA reminded of a thorough inspection of the windshield.
• Replacement due to cracks or large chips will seriously hit the pocket - from 8000 to 15000 rubles.

Recommended engines

• The cost of possible repairs will not be burdensome.
• It has good characteristics, but often causes problems with the chain drive of the valve timing.

French cars are losing their value pretty quickly. This makes it possible to purchase a well-equipped and not worn-out C4 Picasso for a relatively reasonable price. At the same time, there are quite a few copies on the market that require expensive repairs.

The compact van will be interesting, first of all, for those who are looking for an inexpensive family car. But the model is not without flaws. However, in most cases, you can get rid of it with cheap but quality substitutes. Turbodiesels are the most economical, but their maintenance is very expensive.

• Engines: The line of gasoline engines is formed by power units with a working volume of 1.6 liters (120, 150 and 156 hp), 1.8 liters (125 hp) and 2.0 liters (140 hp).
• Transmission: It slowly shifts gears and sometimes requires repairs due to wear of bearings (42 000 rubles).
• Driving: Subsequently, the manufacturer began to install a more rigid Silent block, which usually eliminated the problem.
• Other problems and malfunctions: In specimens older than 10-12 years, rapids often begin to corrosive, sometimes rotting to holes.
• In reliability reports, the Citroën C4 Picasso is not the most problematic car: Experts have drawn attention to frequent problems with lighting, suspension, braking system and oil leaks from the transmission. DEKRA had a better opinion.
• Recommended Engines: The cost of possible repairs will not be onerous.
• Disadvantages: - operation and durability of the automated transmission

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