Citroen Xsara Common Problems and Solutions
No Hot Air From Heater
Problem:
Your interior heater is only blowing out cold air.
Solution:
Check the two hoses that feed into the heater matrix. If they're hot, then you have malfunctioning heater flaps inside the heater box. You'll have to browse our parts list for a new heater box, but installation is fairly easy.
Difficulty level
Heater Matrix
Radio Started Squeaking
Problem:
Your car radio has started making a high-pitched squeaking or popping noise when it's on.
Solution:
This is just a sign that your stereo needs to be re-coded. Head to a Citroen specialist who will normally do this for free.
Difficulty level
Clunking Rear Wiper
Problem:
Your rear window wiper is making a clunking sound when it's moving.
Solution:
Although this is a very minor annoyance and won't affect your MOT, it's worth resolving. It's an easy and low-cost repair, and all you need to do is order a rear wiper assembly from our online store and slot it into place once it's been delivered.
Difficulty level
Slipping Clutch
Problem:
Your clutch has started slipping and feels soft when applied. You will also be having more difficulty changing gears.
Solution:
If you still have the original clutch in your Xsara, then it's done really well. However, they are a known weak point, and you are going to have to replace it. You can find a new clutch system on our parts page, and installation is a time-consuming but very doable DIY job.
Difficulty level
Clutch Kit
ABS warning light
Problem:
If you have an ABS warning light on your dashboard then the most likely cause of the problem is a faulty ABS sensor.
Solution:
In order to correctly identify exactly which ABS sensor is faulty you will need to run a diagnostic check. Once you have identified the faulty sensor you will need to replace it to resolve the issue.
Difficulty level
ABS Sensor
Front suspension problem
Problem:
If you hear a knocking noise when you drive over speed bumps or rough surfaces then this could be an indication of a faulty anti-roll bar link.
Solution:
You will need to replace the anti-roll bar link to sort this problem. Search for Citroen Xsara suspension parts.
Difficulty level
Anti Roll Bar
Airbag warning light
Problem:
If you have noticed that the airbag warning light has appeared on the dashboard then this usually signifies an issue with a faulty seatbelt pre-tensioner wire.
Solution:
You will need to run a diagnostic check to correctly identify exactly which seat belt pre-tensioner wire is causing the fault. Once you have identified which pre-tensioner it is, you will need to replace the faulty wire to resolve the issue.
Difficulty level
Tensioner
Rough idling
Problem:
If you are having problems with rough engine idling then the most common cause will be a faulty ignition coil. You may also experience issues with starting the engine from both cold and warm conditions, and could also suffer from a lack of power when driving. These are all common symptoms of ignition coil failure.
Solution:
Replacing the ignition coil should solve the problem. It is recommended that you change all the ignition coils at the same time for optimum performance. Watch the video below for an idea on how to change an ignition coil:
Difficulty level
Ignition Coil
Door handle failure
Problem:
The exterior door handles on the Xsara are prone to failing.
Solution:
Unfortunately, you will need to fit replacement door handles to resolve this issue with Xsara cars. You’ll need to remove the door card and drill out the rivets that hold the handle in place before replacing the door handle. Search for your Citroen Xsara replacement door handles through Breakeyard.com
Difficulty level
Door Handle
