If you are the owner of a Citroen Relay Van, then you know that it is a workhorse. It is reliable and can handle just about anything you throw at it. However, like all vehicles, it does have its share of problems.
The most common Citroen relay van problems include electrical problems, valve problems, and EGR valve problems. Sometimes you can experience the door freezing in cold weather, the wheel axle may be defective and could break, and the engine stalling when idling.
In this blog post, I will discuss some of the most common problems that Relay Van owners experience and provide advice on how to fix them.
Citroen Relay Van Common Problems
These are the most common Citroen relay van problems:
Electrical Problems
Complications are a common side effect of innovation, and the electrical system of Relay Vans is no exception.
High-beam headlights are one of the components that stop working when the battery load rises.
The dashboard’s oil change, fog lamp, and airbag failure warning lights are the first to blink. The radio panel and air conditioning can occasionally completely go off, permanently or temporarily.
You’ll naturally do a battery load test when you experience this problem. The corroded front loom, not the battery, causes electrical issues. Check the fuse box and ground strap.
Door Locks Freeze
One of the most common problems with the Relay Van is that the door locks tend to freeze in cold weather. This can be a real pain, especially if you are trying to make a delivery in the middle of winter.
The best way to fix this problem is to use a hairdryer or heat gun to melt the ice causing the problem.
EGR Valve Problems
The most annoying issue is probably limp mode activation. The malfunctioning EGR valve is the main cause of the Citroen Relay entering this mode.
The classic exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) technology prevents the release of the dangerous pollutant nitrous oxide. City driving causes carbon deposits to accumulate in its valve, which sets off the engine control unit’s sensors.
In return, you must set – up with sporadic stalling, limp mode, or excessive smoking. If you’re buried in this mess, clean out the valve’s debris or install a new valve. In some nations, a Citroen vehicle with a missing EGR valve might fail its MOT.
Valve Problems
The Valvetronic system is what regulates the engine’s intake valves. It improves performance and reduces fuel consumption and exhaust emissions.
The problem occurs when the oil pressure switch or circuit board burns out. As a result, the engine will overheat, leading to permanent damage if not fixed in time.
The water pump may also fail, causing the engine to overheat. The water temperature warning light will come on when this happens. To avoid this problem, check the oil level regularly and have the engine serviced at least once a year.
Engine Stalling When Idling
This is a common problem with the Citroen Relay Van. The engine will stall when idling at a stop light or in traffic. This can be a real pain, especially if you are in the middle of making a delivery.
This problem is due to a faulty idle control valve. The best way to fix this problem is to take your van to a mechanic and have them check the idle speed. They may need to adjust the idle speed or replace the idle control valve.
The Wheel Axle May Be Defective and Could Break
If you hear a loud noise coming from the front of your Relay Van, it could be due to a defective wheel axle. This is a serious problem that could cause the wheel to come off while you are driving.
If you think you have a defective wheel axle, take your van to a mechanic right away and have them check it out. They may need to replace the axle or other parts of the suspension.
My Thoughts
Citroen Relay engines are very reliable. The Relay is a van that was built in the 1990s and it was a great commercial vehicle at the time.
It has been sold in many countries around the world, including England, France, and Germany, the revised 2.2-liter diesel is known to be a reliable engine that will last longer as long as it is taken care of.
Although this van does have its fair share of problems, it remains one of the best in the market.
Sources:
https://www.parkers.co.uk/vans-pickups/citroen/relay/2006-review/
https://www.topspeed.com/trucks/truck-reviews/citroen/1994-citroen-relay/
https://www.rac.co.uk/drive/car-reviews/citroen/relay/relay–0-0/