Looking After the C6
Second-hand C6s remain very affordable, but I’m a bit reluctant to divulge our purchase price because we secured an incredible bargain! The twist is that restoring this beauty to its stunning condition ultimately cost more than the initial purchase price. This is largely due to the intricate network of delicate electronics and mechanical components in the C6, which can be quite expensive to repair.
What may seem like straightforward mechanical repairs can often become labour-intensive tasks. For example, replacing the steering pump might require disassembling the entire front end (see the photo on the right). On the bright side, we’ve recently dealt with several false alarms—warnings for the parking brake, parking assistance, depollution system, and high engine temperature—all of which were easily resolved by thoroughly cleaning the water temperature socket. It serves as a great reminder that even those pesky electronic gremlins can sometimes be addressed with simple mechanical fixes!
Sourcing spare parts for the C6 through Citroën is becoming increasingly challenging, except perhaps for hydraulic components. Your best option nowadays is to explore aftermarket online shops or connect with C6 clubs and fellow enthusiasts. Here are some online resources that offer useful buying tips (some may not be in English):
Key Data for Routine Maintenance of Your 2.7 HDi
- Fuel tank: 72 litres (diesel).
- Engine lubricant: 5.55 litres synthetic oil 5W40 or 5W30 (not ACEA Α5/Β5).
- Transmission lubricant: 7 litres gearbox oil JWS 3309 ESSO.
- Hydraulic circuit: 3 litres LDS fluid.
- Engine coolant: 13.2 litres.
- Battery: 820/90 Ah
- Tyres: 245/45 R18. Pressure front/rear: 33/30 psi. Note that although the vehicle was originally fitted with Michelin Primacy tires, we are delighted with our Firestone replacements, which cost only two-thirds of the price.
- Suspension spheres pressure front/rear: 50/40 bars (over the wheels) and 70/40 bars (Hydractive).
Low-Mileage Operation Intervals
- Every 2 years: change the oil and filter (max. 10,000 km), renew brake fluid, replace A/C filter (max. 30,000 km), check and, if necessary, replace diesel filter (max. 20,000 km), lubricate doors, bonnet, and boot lid.
- Every 4 years: 2-year maintenance + renew coolant, replace air filter (max. 40,000 km), check, clean, or replace mass air sensors (MAS) (max. 50,000 km). Every 6 years: 2-year maintenance + renew gearbox oil (ideally flush the gearbox) (max. 60,000 km), check the condition of the metallic coolant pipe inside the front left panel (may be corroded).
- Every 8 years: 4-year maintenance + check/refill the particle filter fluid (max. 120,000 km), check the thermostat base for cracks (max. 100,000 km).
- Every 10 years: 2-year maintenance + check/replace the particle filter (max. 180,000 km), replace the primary timing chain and the fuel pump (HDi) belt (max. 180,000 km), check/replace all 7 suspension spheres, renew LDS suspension fluid (max. 200,000 km), clean hydraulic pump carbon brushes, check lower front ball joints, inspect all fuel pipes.