Citroen says my cambelt should last 10 years, but it’s snapped at nine — is the dealer liable?
The cambelt has gone on our 2016 Citroen C4 Picasso. We bought it just over 7 months ago and the dealer at the time told me that they hadn't changed the cambelt as it wasn't due yet. They said 10 years or 112000 miles. This is just over 9 years old and done 75000 miles. We also received a 7 month warranty. The cambelt went the day after the warranty expired. I phoned the dealer and they did not want to know. I have spoken to Citroen and they have said they they "may" be able to contribute towards the cambelt, but nothing else, so if anything else was damaged at the time then they would not help. I want to know where I stand with this and if anyone can help. We bought this on HP so I don't know if the finance company can help?
Asked on 26 February 2026 by Dan Yorke
Answered by
David Ross
Cambelts are a maintenance part with a finite lifespan, so it can be difficult to prove that the failure is a result of a manufacturing fault. The failure has happened before the recommended service point of 10 years/112,000 miles, but there is no accounting for the life the car experienced before you owned it, and as a service milestone is approaching the risk of failure is increased. Some independent specialists recommend changing at eight years or 80,000 miles due the potential risk of failure. We would suggest pursuing Citroen for assistance - you could take legal action, but this may be costly and time-consuming with no guarantee of success. You may also wish to consider getting a quote from an independent Citroen specialist who may provide a repair more cheaply than a main dealer.
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