3.0 HDi V6 (DT20)
2009–2017 · diesel · 2993cc · 240hp
Engine codes: DT20, DT20C, X8Z
Reliability, common problems and owner reviews for the Citroen C5 3.0 HDi V6 (DT20). Check this before you buy used.
The 3.0 HDi V6 (DT20, 240hp) — the flagship twin-turbo diesel, smooth and genuinely strong, and the most robust of the PSA V6 diesels (chain-driven, not the belt-driven 2.7). The long-life timing chain is rated to ~240,000 km but is a costly job when due. Main ownership pain is cost: twin turbos, DPF system and a complex EGR setup are all expensive when they need attention, and specialists are few. Buy on history, not hope.
Known Issues
Chain-driven valvetrain rated ~240,000 km; not a routine belt change — a costly job when due or if the car was run low on oil.
Fix / Workaround: Keep oil changes religious; budget for chain service at high mileage.
Repair cost: €800–€2500
Typically appears after: 200,000 km
Sequential twin turbos, DPF system and complex EGR are all expensive to repair.
Fix / Workaround: Motorway use for DPF; specialist diagnosis; clean/replace components.
Repair cost: €500–€2200
Typically appears after: 150,000 km
Mileage Thresholds
After 240,000 km: Timing chain service window.
Pre-Purchase Checklist
- ☐Full service history with frequent oil changes
- ☐Listen for chain rattle on cold start
- ☐Budget for expensive specialist repairs
Frequently asked questions
Is the Citroen C5 3.0 HDi V6 (DT20) reliable?
Expensive — The 3.0 HDi V6 (DT20, 240hp) — the flagship twin-turbo diesel, smooth and genuinely strong, and the most robust of the PSA V6 diesels (chain-driven, not the belt-driven 2.7). The long-life timing chain is rated to ~240,000 km but is a costly job when due. Main ownership pain is cost: twin turbos, DPF system and a complex EGR setup are all expensive when they need attention, and specialists are few. Buy on history, not hope.
What are the common problems and reviews for the Citroen C5 3.0 HDi V6 (DT20)?
The most commonly reported problems: Timing chain (long-life, expensive job), Twin-turbo / DPF / EGR cost.
Is a used Citroen C5 3.0 HDi V6 (DT20) worth buying?
Won't fail catastrophically, but when things do go wrong the repairs cost a lot. Budget accordingly.