Reasons for Citroen C5 Transmission Failure?
3 Answers
Below is the relevant introduction of the Citroen C5:1. Symptoms of Citroen C5 transmission failure: The Citroen C5 is equipped with an Aisin 6-speed automatic transmission. During high-speed driving, a transmission failure warning appears, but the transmission shifts normally, and the dashboard prompts "Transmission Fault, Please Service Vehicle."2. Analysis of Citroen C5 transmission failure causes: The Citroen C5 2.3L is equipped with an Aisin 6-speed automatic transmission. Some vehicles may display a "Transmission Fault, Please Service Vehicle" warning during high-speed driving, even though the transmission shifts normally. The diagnostic tool reads the transmission system fault code as P0741, indicating "Torque Converter Clutch Circuit Performance or Stuck Off." This suggests that the transmission lock-up clutch is slipping, leading to the torque converter's inability to lock up. Below is the repair process for the Citroen C5 transmission fault.
I'm very familiar with this issue, as several of my friends who drive C5s have encountered it. The main problem is the solenoid valve, which is prone to sticking or failing. It controls the oil circuit switching, and once it fails, it causes jerking or even prevents gear shifting. Another issue is the wear and tear on the oil circuit plate. After driving around 70,000 to 80,000 kilometers, the valve body gaps widen, leading to unstable oil pressure and jerky gear shifts. Electrical connectors are also problematic, especially in older cars, where oxidation can cause signal interruptions and trigger warning lights. Also, never delay changing the transmission fluid, as sludge buildup can completely block the solenoid valve. Faulty oil temperature sensors are common too; inaccurate readings cause the computer to send incorrect commands. These issues are quite troublesome to fix, so it's best to find a specialist repair shop for French cars and use a diagnostic tool to read the specific fault codes.
As someone who has owned three generations of the C5, here are some key takeaways: The hydraulic unit has a high failure rate, especially noticeable as harsh 1-2 gear shifts when cold; the older AL4 transmission has design flaws, with accumulator springs prone to fatigue; the transmission control module suffers from poor heat dissipation, leading to solder joint burnout under prolonged high temperatures; the mechanical components are relatively reliable, but clutch plate wear can cause shifting slippage. It's advisable to first check for trouble codes—issues like P0741/P0971 typically indicate solenoid valve problems. Don't skimp on maintenance; use genuine transmission fluid every 60,000 km, as inferior fluids can damage the valve body in just three months.
