Modern Citroen Diesels - Views?

[ragger]

I am considering a change of modern from my Hyundai to a C4 Coupe diesel. I am a little wary of modern highly efficient diesels, but the 1.6 models seem to provide a good combination of economy and performance - insurance costs are a key factor here because of the named drivers that will be on the policy. Initially I was thinking of a C3 diesel but I really want something a bit bigger.

If anyone has any experience of these cars or an opinion based on someting other than prejudice, I would be pleased to hear your thoughts. The XM is staying!!

Rob

[messerschmitt owner]

From what I have read the 1.6hdi is not so good as the dependable 2.0. I have a 2.0hdi dispatch and it is smooth, quick and economical.

[robert_e_smart]

1.6 HDi is a bad job. Turbos blowing. Very picky on having the right spec oil in them. One to avoid.

[citroenxm]

1.6hdi engines are OK as long as the oil is changed frequently, and NOT as the service scedule says.

I think they have gone like Renaults DCi engines, and the service schedule is too long, so in stead of a oil service every 18k, cut it to 8k instead!

My sister has a 1.6 hdi C4 Coupe, and she can destroy an engine, so far this has survived. The other key is use full synthetic oil too...

However, I DO think that the BEST hdi engine of the lot was the original 8v HDi 90 and 110 units in the Xantias, 406s, and early C5's.. These can go on and on, and even survive late serviceing... However, the oil schedule is 12k on them... But they do seem to be the strongest and least trouble some of them all..

Peter N on here, was was dire 2.1 TD mechanical engine buff... I convinced him to try a 2.0 HDi 110.. I think he is pleased so far with the two he has, other then a pump issue on one. Which I also have had. However, the fuel system bits are getting cheaper now.

For me, for least bother... 2.0 8v 110bhp "Original" engine.

[robert_e_smart]

2.7HDI, thats the one to go for. No messing about!

[citroenxm]

no prehaps not Robert, but Redicilious stupid road tax charges over here, its REALLY not worth it.. (In the C6 anyway, not sure on the 407)

[Peter.N.]

I would concur with Paul. I have a 2.0. Hdi in a 406 that has now done 212,000 and hasn't missed a beat since I had it, my C5 at 188,000 needed a HP fuel pump but I got one on ebay for £55.00.

I would also agree with Paul on the oil changes for the 1.6, double them up and you shouldn't have a problem.

Peter

[Duke]

Can't recommend the C4 (especially the Coupe) enough. Cracking cars.

I'd personally avoid the 1.6 HDi unless it had impeccable service history. You can get a 2.0 HDi VTS which is 138BHP too...

My C4 is the 1.6 16v VTi 120 petrol which is actually a BMW PSA engine. Much better than the elderly TU engine....

2.7 HDi in a C4!!!

[CitroJim]

Much better than the elderly TU engine....

The TU is still a brilliant little engine and right up there with PSA's very best and boy have they done some good 'uns.. ES9, XU, XUD, PRV, DW10 - all masterpieces...

I don't think of the TU as an elderly engine but I guess you would as it's considerably older than you are Franklin

First saw the light of day in 1988 I think. I had a 1990 AX with the TU1 in it... Wonderful little car with a wonderful little engine...

[citroenxm]

Yes Jim, 1988 (1987 build year) saw it in the BX and the 205 in 1400cc guise!