Are failed lower engine mounts causing my Citroen Xsara Picasso to shudder under acceleration?

I have just bought a Citroen Xsara Picasso 2.0 HDI (Xreg Dec 2000) from a car auction. The purchase price was very cheap so I was a happy chappy until I drove it away. Everything is spot on except what feels like clutch judder when moving off in first gear. Higher revs and slipping the clutch slightly reduces the judder. If you have the hand brake on in first gear and let out the clutch slowly, the vibration starts. The vibration lessons to a certain extent in second, third, fourth and fifth gears (I've not tried reverse). I have read lower engine mount faults have happened on these cars. Are the symptoms the same as clutch judder? There are no noises from the release bearing and the clutch bites at mid point of pedal travel. What do I do to rule out the lower engine mount? Are there any other possible causes?

Asked on 19 June 2010 by Cobby

Answered by Honest John

Owners tell me that the 2.0HDI was not fitted with a dual mass flywheel, and if they are right then that is a huge relief. Yes, it might be the mounts. But if it isn't you have to face the prospect of a new clutch and clutch release bearing.

Tags: dual mass flywheel juddering clutches

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