Used Citroen DS5 2012-2015 reliability

Parking sensors aren’t standard on all models, so check for any parking scrapes to the bumpers and bodywork carefully because repairing damaged paint can be expensive.

There were some large alloy wheel options on the DS5 that might be showing signs of kerb damage if the previous owner was particularly careless. A damaged wheel could also be the sign of more serious suspension damage, so have a good look when you view the car.

There have been a few complaints of rattles from the interior, so find a rough patch of road on your test drive to try to unearth any.

If your Citroën DS5 has a diesel engine (and most do), then it is fitted with a diesel particulate filter (DPF). This means the car will need to be taken on frequent motorway journeys to ensure the DPF can regenerate because this process is only triggered at high speed. Check how the previous owner has used the car if you are unsure.

Another potential problem with DPF-equipped cars is if the filter was shut off partway through regeneration. The result is contamination of the oil system with fuel, leading to the oil level rising gradually over time. This can cause damage to the engine, so it’s worth checking the oil level.

DS5s built after 16 May 2013 were subject to a recall related to the electrical wire running to the starter motor, which may chafe on neighbouring engine components and cause a short circuit. Check whether your potential purchase is affected by this recall by contacting your local Citroën dealer.

The DS5 wasn’t included in our latest reliability survey, but Citroën as a whole doesn’t have the best reputation for reliability. The manufacturer finished in a disappointing 28th place out of 32 car brands. Audi, BMW and Mercedes Benz all did considerably better.

If you would like to see the full reliability list for executive cars, head to the What Car? reliability survey for more information.