IsItAGoodCar
Reliability Guide

Common Problems with the
2008 Citroën Xsara Picasso

We've identified 2 known issues that can affect the 2008 Citroën Xsara Picasso. 1 of these are serious faults that could be expensive to repair.

2
Known Issues
1
Serious
0
Moderate
1
Minor

All Known Issues

Rear torsion beam axle trailing arm bearing failure

SeriousSuspension & Chassis

The trailing arm needle roller bearings inside the rear torsion beam axle lack adequate weather sealing against UK road salt and water spray. Corrosion destroys the bearings, causing the rear wheels to tilt inwards at the top (negative camber) and rub against the inner wheel arch liners, eventually seizing the axle.

Est. Repair Cost: £350–£750
Warning Signs:

Rear wheels lean inwards noticeably at the top when viewed from behind, Squeaking or creaking noise from the rear suspension over bumps, Rear tyres scrubbing against inner plastic arch liners, Uneven tread wear across inside shoulder of rear tyres

What to Inspect:
  • Stand behind the car to check if rear wheels are upright or tilted inwards in a '/ \' stance
  • Inspect inner plastic arch liners for tyre rub marks
  • Bounce the rear suspension to listen for squeaking or seized trailing arms
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research TeamUpdated

Digital central instrument cluster display failure

MinorInterior & Trim

The centrally mounted digital liquid-crystal instrument cluster illuminates via multiple tiny incandescent bulbs and multiplexed ribbon cables. Bulb failures leave the digital speedometer and fuel gauges invisible at night, while solder joint fatigue causes flickering or segments disappearing entirely.

Est. Repair Cost: £30–£180
Warning Signs:

Speedometer, fuel gauge or trip computer display completely dark or dim, Digital segment numbers missing or flickering over bumps, Backlighting fails when headlights are turned on, MOT failure due to inoperative speedometer illumination

What to Inspect:
  • Check that all digits of the digital speedometer illuminate brightly with lights on and off
  • Gently tap top of dashboard to detect loose solder connections or flickering display
  • Verify fuel level and engine temperature bars display correctly without dead pixels
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research TeamUpdated

Buying Tips for 2008 Citroën Xsara Picasso

  • Inspect the rear axle trailing arms from behind; if rear wheels lean inwards at the top in a '/ \' stance, the needle roller bearings have seized
  • On 2.0 HDi models, listen for a healthy hum from the in-tank fuel lift pump under the rear seats before starting, as worn pumps cause sudden cut-outs
  • Ensure the central digital dashboard illuminates brightly with the lights on; blown 1.2W miniature bulbs can render the digital speedometer invisible
  • Test every seat mechanism by folding, tipping and removing all three rear seats, and confirm that the removable Modubox boot shopping trolley is present
  • Check models fitted with the panoramic glass sunroof for stained headlining and wet seats caused by perished rubber perimeter seals
Check a 2008 Citroën Xsara Picasso by Registration