The Citroen C3 Aircross is a five-door family MPV released in the early 2010s and is still being sold across Europe, Latin America, and China. In Europe, the C3 Aircross replaced the C3 Picasso which stopped production in 2017. Citroen MPV models seem to be selling really well which means that these are popular among many families.
When it comes to reliability, the C3 Aircross is a fairly decent car, but it needs thorough and constant maintenance in order to keep running for as long as you want it to. It does suffer from certain issues, many of which are carried over the C3 Picasso. If you want to know more, be sure to read this article to find out.
The most common Citroen C3 Aircross issues are related to slow acceleration, electrical issues, issues with the transmission, issues with the steering system, and issues with engine misfiring. Most of these aren’t too problematic, but they do need mending as soon as possible, otherwise, they can be either dangerous or even more problematic.
All in all, the C3 Aircross is a decently reliable car. The good news is that it does not cost too much money to maintain, but the bad news is that it needs maintenance fairly often.
Wondering if you should buy a Citroën C3 Aircross.
Citroen C3 Aircross – Acceleration issues
According to multiple sources online, the C3 Aircross often suffers from a variety of issues that affect how well the car accelerates. If you do notice your C3 Aircross not being able to pull itself up on a hill, be sure to first check the car’s air filter for signs of clogging. You should also check the car’s mass air flow filter which can also easily get clogged with dirt particles and road debris.
The fuel filter is prone to the same issues as is the case with the catalytic converter. The O2 sensor is also a potential culprit. The throttle fuel body should also be inspected if all the previous steps didn’t fix the issue. Finally, a faulty fuel pump can also be the reason even though these fail fairly rarely on the C3 Aircross.
Citroen C3 Aircross – Electrical issues
The Citroen C3 and many other Citroen models from multiple generations are known for a wide variety of potential electrical issues that can significantly influence your overall ownership experience and how well the car behaves through the years. Most common electrical issues seem to be related to the car’s A/C system.
Other electrical issues with the C3 Aircross include faulty lights, issues with connecting your phone, interior illumination issues, and many other accessories. It’s worth mentioning that most of these issues can typically be found on older C3 Aircross models which means that newer models are much better in this regard.
Citroen C3 Aircross – Transmission issues
The Citroen C3 Aircross comes with a Citroen proprietary Sensodrive transmission which is known to fail oftentimes. The most common Sensodrive issues are associated with the unit being lazy or fairly hesitant. The car can also start lurking while maneuvering at lower speeds which means that you ought to be careful with it.
Either way, most of these issues can be solved with a simple reprogramming of the system. If not, you will have to reset a few modules and sometimes even replace a few broken parts. Be sure to change the transmission fluid and keep the transmission in good condition.
Citroen C3 Aircross – Steering system issues
Multiple sources online state that the C3 Aircross is also prone to various issues with the steering system. The most common steering system-related issue is misaligned steering which can significantly hamper how precise the car is in corners. These issues ought to be dealt with as soon as possible because they can worsen and make the car difficult to control.
Sometimes you will have to replace certain steering system components and potentially even the tires. All in all, be sure to pay close attention to how well the car steers as you don’t want to experience any steering system-related issues.
Citroen C3 Aircross – Engine misfiring issues
The Citroen C3 Aircross and many other Citroen models are prone to various issues with the engine injectors and injector sensors. These issues typically result in the car idling really rough and often even with the engine misfiring.
These issues also need to be dealt with asap which means that you ought to replace either the sensors or the injectors themselves.
Italia: citroen c3 problemi motore
Other known problems and issues
- Poor fuel economy
- Unreliable electronics
- Engine noise
- Expensive to repair
- Limited rear legroom
- Overly soft suspension
- Poorly designed interior
- Poor rear visibility
- Poor build quality
- Poor acceleration
The Citroen C3 Aircross versions
- Exclusive Edition
- Shine Edition
- Feel Edition
- Flair Edition
- Rip Curl Edition
FAQ Section
Is the Citroen C3 Aircross a good purchase?
The Citroen C3 Aircross is a fairly popular car in Europe, China, and Latin America which means that many people are interested in buying it. As such, if you are after a spacious, well-equipped, and really modern MPV, you should definitely consider buying the Citroen C3 Aircross.
On the other hand, if you deem these cars boring and you don’t really like MPVs, the C3 Aircross is not likely going to change your mind. Therefore, be sure to balance your needs and wants and you will be able to gauge if the C3 Aircross is a good car for you.
Is the Citroen C3 Aircross available in the USA?
Citroen left the US market completely a few decades ago which means that you can’t buy the Citroen C3 Aircross in the USA. The reason why Citroen left is that these cars just don’t sell all that well there. The domestic and Japanese competition can be had for lower prices while also being as good or sometimes even better.
French automakers such as Renault, Peugeot, and Citroen are not available in the USA and this is not likely going to change anytime soon.
Is the Citroen C3 Aircross a good family car?
The Citroen C3 Aircross is a really decent family car because it offers enough space for everyone. It is also fairly comfortable and safe which makes it very popular with families. The car is quiet enough as well which means that your kids shouldn’t have any issues while sleeping inside the C3 Aircross.
The car is also easy to get in and out of while the overall visibility is really good as well.
