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ChrisMey

Citroen C8 petrol engine 2012: Problems with engine performance and fuel efficiency - suspected defective ignition coil

Car won't start

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Loss of engine power

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Stalling while idling

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Jerking on acceleration

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Shaking while idling

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Unsteady engine

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Check engine light on

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Poor fuel economy

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Black smoke from exhaust on acceleration

Hey guys, I'm having problems with my 2012 Citroen C8 gasoline engine. It's showing some unusual symptoms: black smoke when accelerating, check engine light is on, loss of engine power, rough engine running, jerking when accelerating, car won't start sometimes, poor fuel efficiency, it dies at idle and shakes when doing so. I suspect the ignition coil may be faulty or there may be misfiring. Have any of you had similar experiences and can give me a few tips on what I should look out for? I am particularly interested in how your garage has solved the problem and what experiences you have had. Thanks in advance!

(Translated from German)

6 comment(s)


Best Answer

JudyWolfRider

Hi mate, had similar problems with my 2010 Citroen C5, I'm no expert but have a bit of experience with cars. In my case, the engine control unit was defective. Had to pay 1000 euros for it! I know it's expensive, but my car ran like new afterwards. Can you give us more details about your car and its symptoms? Then we might be able to help even more.

(Translated from German)

ChrisMey (Author)

Hey, thanks for the quick reply! My Citroën C8 already has 108079 KM on the clock. There were no particular problems at the last service, but the problems mentioned have been getting worse for about 2 weeks now. The black smoke becomes more intense under heavy acceleration, and the jerking and stalling at idle are becoming more frequent. I'm going to find out about a defective engine control unit. 1000 euros is a lot of money, but if the car runs smoothly again afterwards, it might be worth it. Does anyone else have any tips or experience? I would be really pleased!

(Translated from German)

JudyWolfRider

Hey, your clinical picture really reminds me of my problem back then. At this mileage, it's quite possible that the engine control unit is giving up the ghost. The black smoke and jerking were also extreme in my case. So despite the high price, I would consider having it checked. Alternatively, as you have already mentioned, the ignition coils or misfiring could be the problem, which will also be checked during the inspection. Unfortunately, it's always an expensive affair when the car is acting up, but afterwards it runs like clockwork again! I hope this helps you and your C8 will soon be fit again!

(Translated from German)

ChrisMey (Author)

Hey, thanks for the advice! I think I'll take the car to the garage tomorrow and have the engine control unit checked. It's true, it's expensive, but as long as it fixes my car, I'll take it. I'll also have the ignition coils checked at the same time. Hopefully the Citroën C8 will be fine after that. I'll be in touch and keep you updated on the progress. Thanks again for the support, guys!

(Translated from German)

GrumpyBryan

I’ve got seven D218 fault codes……what do they mean. Engine management light has been on for eight months, car has been driven from Scotland to southern Spain where we now live and it’s not missed a beat. Any clues ?

CarlyMechanic

@GrumpyBryan

I’ve got seven D218 fault codes……what do they mean. Engine management light has been on for eight months, car has been driven from Scotland to southern Spain where we now live and it’s not missed a beat. Any clues ?

The D218 fault code typically indicates a problem with the fuel pump relay circuit. This could be due to a faulty relay, wiring issues, or even a problem with the fuel pump itself. Since your engine management light has been on for quite a while, it's crucial to get this checked out by a professional mechanic as soon as possible. Driving with a potential fuel pump issue can lead to more serious engine damage over time. Please keep us updated on your progress. Do you have any other questions or concerns?

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