After a run of 2-3 miles engine warning light comes on, engine runs lumpy, and when coming to a stop engine dies. Will restart but have to keep revs. up. What is causing this?

dave, October 2009

Sometimes the voltage regulator on an alternator can go faulty, thus not actually regulating. This can mean excessive voltage which "cooks" the battery and reduces its' life.

Ironically I had a very similar problem this morning - car wouldn't start; had to jump start it. Was driving to work and the power steering stopped working, ABS light came on, Airbag light came on - I thought the dash had turned into a Christmas tree!

I quickly decided to go to a garage and got a new battery. All seems OK now. On checking the voltage across the new battery, I get 12.35V engine off; 14.25V engine running. These seem to be within spec from what I can find.

Hope this helps. :-)

Ian, Scotland., February 2010

I had to change alternator due to problems in the car. It had no power. It seems to be a common problem with the car. I have looked on the site and citroen C3 have had numerous problems. I wouldnt buy this car again.

Don, London, January 2010

Sorry no answer but my C3 has started doing the same thing - Its been in the garage twice with no one being able to find fault - They take the engine light indicator off and the car runs again fine - for about 20 miles then BINGO - it happens again - any help would be grateful

Lesley, January 2010

Hi dave, i`m having exactly the same problems since yesterday with our c3 1.4sx. my wife got recovered home last nite after the recovery man said it was a knackered alternator?
went out this morning car started with a little revs, had to keep them up as would stall stall otherwise.
checked voltage at battery with engine running & had 14.5 volts which would suggest he is wrong & that the alternator is fine.
did you get the car sorted?, as any help would be appreciated.

andy, November 2009