CITROEN C5 (2009)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 3,341 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
72%
Total Tests (2024)
3,341
Avg Mileage
119,720 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£1,827
Is the 2009 CITROEN C5 reliable?
Average reliability. Expect some repairs as it ages. That's 10 points below the national average of 82%. It falls below the CITROEN brand average of 79%.
At 15 years old, 72% of CITROEN C5s from 2009 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 3,341 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 119,720 miles.
How does the 2009 CITROEN C5 compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2009 CITROEN C5 has 119,720 miles on the clock, which is in line with the expected 111,000 miles for a 15-year-old car, suggesting normal everyday use.
Best year to buy a CITROEN C5?
The most reliable year is the 2020 model with a 92% MOT pass rate, while the 2001 model has the lowest at 64%. The 2009 sits between the two at 72%.
How much does a 2009 CITROEN C5 cost to run?
Higher than average due to low pass rate
Based on 7,400 miles/year (UK average), current fuel prices, and repair likelihood from MOT pass rate data. Insurance not included.
CITROEN C5 by Year
| Year | Pass Rate | Tests | Avg Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 92% | 2,377 | 25,060 mi |
| 2020 | 92% | 10,871 | 30,371 mi |
| 2019 | 89% | 11,830 | 37,099 mi |
| 2018 | 76% | 46 | 42,159 mi |
| 2016 | 84% | 186 | 70,192 mi |
| 2015 | 83% | 320 | 88,761 mi |
| 2014 | 79% | 405 | 83,642 mi |
| 2013 | 77% | 653 | 96,254 mi |
| 2012 | 77% | 729 | 106,625 mi |
| 2011 | 75% | 1,045 | 113,766 mi |
| 2010 | 72% | 2,297 | 119,800 mi |
| 2009 | 72% | 3,341 | 119,720 mi |
| 2008 | 71% | 2,251 | 122,178 mi |
| 2007 | 69% | 731 | 118,303 mi |
| 2006 | 72% | 827 | 118,553 mi |
| 2005 | 69% | 596 | 119,716 mi |
| 2004 | 72% | 691 | 117,451 mi |
| 2003 | 69% | 554 | 126,405 mi |
| 2002 | 66% | 426 | 125,296 mi |
| 2001 | 64% | 205 | 116,552 mi |
Checking a specific CITROEN C5?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2009 CITROEN C5
The 2009 CITROEN C5 is a small family car with a 1598cc petrol engine. 3,341 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a reasonably common sight on UK roads. Among all cars from 2009, the average MOT pass rate is 75%, and this model falls short of that benchmark.
With an average of 119,720 miles at 15 years old, CITROEN C5 owners drive about as much as the UK average.
2009 CITROEN C5 Fuel Costs
The 1598cc petrol engine offers a reasonable balance between performance and economy. Expect around 42 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £1,137 per year at current petrol prices of 142p per litre (based on 7,400 miles per year).
What does it cost to own a 2009 CITROEN C5?
Total estimated annual running cost is £1,827 (£152/month), broken down as £1137 fuel, £135 road tax, £55 MOT, and £500 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 72% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
CITROEN C5 Reliability Trend
Newer CITROEN C5s show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 13 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2009 CITROEN C5
At 15 years old, the CITROEN C5 is firmly in budget territory. Purchase prices are low, but check for rust, worn suspension bushes, and electrical gremlins. A full service history is especially valuable at this age. If you're flexible on year, the 2020 model has the highest pass rate at 92%.
Alternatives to the 2009 CITROEN C5
If reliability is your priority, there are 3 similar cars with a higher MOT pass rate. Here are comparable petrol cars with similar engines:
- FORD FOCUS (2011) 75% pass rate (+3%) from 115,331 tests
- VAUXHALL CORSA (2011) 75% pass rate (+3%) from 111,868 tests
- FORD FIESTA (2008) 72% pass rate (same) from 109,443 tests
- VOLKSWAGEN POLO (2011) 75% pass rate (+3%) from 79,721 tests