Will Citroen help with C8 cam belt failure?

Our 2005 Citroen C8 broke down on the motorway when the cam belt snapped. I understand that when this happens damage can be caused to the engine/valves. The service manual states that the cam belt should be changed at 100,000 miles, but our C8 has only done 83,000 miles and is seven years years old. Is the sudden cam belt failure unusual considering the age and mileage of the car, and is it worth taking up with Citroen?

Asked on 24 November 2012 by RT, via email

Answered by Honest John

It is worth trying Citroen because there is a known condition with the C8 whereby screenwash water drains onto the cam belt cover and causes premature failure of the belt. Citroen has rectified the situation in the past at up to 99,000 miles. See: www.honestjohn.co.uk/carbycar/citroen/c8-2003/?sec...d

Update.
RT later wrote back: “Just to let you know that Citroen has now provided us with a new C8 replacement engine free of charge, as the premature failure of the cam belt on C8 2.0 and 2.2 HDI engines is a 'known problem'. We are absolutely delighted. Thank you."

Tags: diesel engine faults diesels

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