IsItAGoodCar
Reliability Guide

Common Problems with the
2017 Citroën C3 (Mk3)

The 2017 C3 brought Airbumps, a raised stance and a customisable cabin to Citroen's supermini, aiming at Fiesta buyers who wanted comfort and character over handling.

What changed for 2017

  • •1.2 PureTech 68, 82 and 110 petrols; 1.6 BlueHDi 100 diesel
  • •Seven-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto on most trims
  • •Optional Airbump panels, contrasting roof colours and Grip Control

Common MOT watch-outs

  • !Front top mounts and drop links knocking on urban potholes
  • !Diesel particulate filter warnings on low-mileage 1.6 BlueHDi cars
  • !Uneven front tyre wear from neglected tracking and worn suspension bushes
4
Known Issues
2
Serious
1
Moderate
1
Minor

All Known Issues

1.2 PureTech "Wet Belt" Degradation

SeriousEngine

The timing belt runs in oil and can degrade, shedding debris that blocks the oil pickup. This leads to oil starvation, vacuum pump failure, and a dangerous loss of braking assistance (Recall R/2020/331).

Est. Repair Cost: £600–£1,800
Warning Signs:

Low oil pressure warning, Hard brake pedal, Engine fault light, Furry/cracked belt visible through filler cap

What to Inspect:
  • Check belt condition via oil filler cap
  • Verify 0W-30/0W-20 oil usage
  • Check recall status
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

AdBlue Tank and Pump Failure

SeriousFuel System

The AdBlue system on BlueHDi diesels is prone to pump failure, often requiring a full tank replacement.

Est. Repair Cost: £800–£1,300
Warning Signs:

"UREA" warning light, Engine won't start countdown

What to Inspect:
  • Check for emissions warning lights
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Exhaust Back Box Detachment

ModerateExhaust & Emissions

The exhaust back box support rod or joint can corrode prematurely, causing the muffler to hang low or detach entirely.

Est. Repair Cost: £150–£300
Warning Signs:

Sudden increase in exhaust noise, Rattling or dragging sound from the rear, Exhaust hanging visibly low

What to Inspect:
  • Inspect exhaust hangers and joints for heavy corrosion
  • Gently shake the tailpipe to check for security
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Reversing Camera Calibration and Faults

MinorElectrics & Electronics

The factory-fitted reversing camera can lose its calibration guide lines or show a misaligned view of the bumper.

Est. Repair Cost: £50–£150
Warning Signs:

Missing parking guide lines, Camera view appears off-centre or zoomed in, Intermittent blank screen when in reverse

What to Inspect:
  • Check camera view for clarity and alignment
  • Ensure reversing lights are working (linked to the same circuit)
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Buying Tips for 2017 Citroën C3 (Mk3)

  • Inspect the PureTech belt through the filler cap and check which oil has been used
  • Test every touchscreen menu, the Bluetooth pairing and the reversing camera
2018–2019
Check a 2017 Citroën C3 (Mk3) by Registration