Since this is being presented as a "barn find", one thing to look out for is the upper front strut mounts failing. Carefully check for cracks and tears. NOS is NLA. However, reproductions have come onto the market in the past few years. If those struts break free, they will go up through your hood. That was the one fear I had when I considered buying an XM wagon (!) here in San Diego some years ago.
@@anthonypeck3588 I wasn't so much worried about the bill (yah, I saw what you did there 😉). I've been playing with French cars pretty much my entire life. Hell, I started a hobby making replacement wire looms for the Citroën D. What turned me away from that XM was the possible sudden failure of those upper strut mounts.
@@billh230 I had a Xantia with the same potential issue. My mechanic, a Citroen specialist, recommended replacing the mounts at a specified period, once every 6 or so years as a preventative measure.
Once bought a Cadillac for $250. I was told it probably needed a fuel pump because it wouldn't start. I needed a car to make a property look lived in. For the hell of it, one day I put fuel in and charged the battery. It started right up. Kept it until I sold the property. The car looked great. Even though it was 32 Canadian years old, it had its original exhaust, the self levelling and power antennae worked. It did need power steering lines that had rusted. Engine ran quietly, transmission shifted like a Cadillac. So you never know.
I have had 3 of these over the years, amazing cars, unless the green light comes on next to the keypad, it will not start. The Xm,s have two codes, one to start it, a Valet code which will unlock it, let everything work, but will not start. There also on some models. Later one had a service code which completely turns the keypad of for 15 starts, then re enables. No green light, no spark, no start. Fuel pump will run, but no ignition spark. Its ment to be like that, that’s the hole point of the immobiliser. Citroen Xantias are exactly the same
I heard that XM's had a slightly more advanced version of the system used in Xantias, where as all the Peugeots that used the system including the 605 which shared the platform with the XM, shared the less advanced unit used in the Xantia. I own a 1997 Peugeot 605 and after a few years of sitting and other cars taking its place, i have managed to forget the code, and from little bit of research i heard that Xm's have a different variation of the immobilizer system.
@ You could well be right, mine were all U.K spec. I bought one with no code, carefully took the keypad apart, so I could work out what 4 numbers had been used the most, lucky me as 10 try of various combinations I got lucky and started.
@@Hipas_Account '95 (MY96) onwards XM's automatically give a green light if you unlock the car via the remote and then turn the ignition on quickly enough (within 30 seconds I believe). That doesn't apply to this XM though, as it's a ph1. So unless someone disabled the keypad in the past, you need the code to start it. I usually write the code onto the ECU of the car.
Месяц назад+2
@@Hipas_Account There have been several evolutions of this system. Peugeot and Citroën had the same at the same time A Xantia had something similar until MY98 : the XM added an "automatic" feature (unlock it with the remote control), the Xantia (facelift) got a Key with chip inside and a completely new immo system.
There is a keypad between the seats, thats the immobilizer. The code HAS to be entered before each startup. Try 0001 or 1111 as these are usually the garage codes. However, if the owner tried to disconnect the keypad and did it wrong, then the ECU is most likely locked.
Wizard: If you are not aware of this, there is a 12mm bypass screw on the (hydraulic) pressure regulator on the engine. I tell you this because I see that you have lifted the hydraulic reservoir out. When doing that, you likely get air in the supply pipe for the pump and it will not build any pressure. So if this happened, find the 12mm on the regulator near the green accumulator and open it a little bit (maximum one turn), run the engine for a minute and while running, tighten the screw and now it should build pressure again. -If you didn't know that already. :) Also, if you feel unsure about if you are at the right screw, it's the only 12mm on the whole engine. Nice to see that you got it running. Starting problems on these are usually fuel pump, ground points in engine bay, injection relays on the ECU box, ignition module (same as Volvo 940) and flywheel sensor. But I have seen damaged wiring too. Anyway, nice to see it purr again. I know where to look for rust under these cars and this one looked really nice. Feel free to ask any questions if there are any other issues. They are really good cars, but you have to learn their quirks. And that's what old men like me are here for. ps. The bleeding with the bypass screw-procedure is the exact same on the DS, but they have the old seven piston pump and can usually bleed themselves just by running the engine.
I bought a used pick-up truck from someone, and they told me the ac is completely stuffed up. Drove it for a year, then my buddy who came to visit regassed it, and it worked perfectly again. Just needs a regas every 4 to 5 years 😁😁😁
Here in Finland these (and many other models of) Citroéns were quite common at their time. After these accumulated 200,000 kilometers or reached 10 years or so, of age -no-one- wanted these and the value of these was the value of scrap metal. These were so prone to problems that there was absolutely no financial sense in fixing these.
Yep, here in the UK, no one will touch over 10 years old french cars (says he still driving his fathers 2007 xsara picasso but only 50k miles on the clock) prescisely because you get a lot of features for the money but when they start going wrong (usually after 10 years and especially those with the ribbon cable wiring) they're just money pits.
I love the exterior look of the XM. Such a striking, aerodynamic design. But that engine bay? Wires and hoses running everywhere? What a horrid mess. You just know that mechanical service is a nightmare. It's a real shame Citroen didn't do a better job on that.
that 505..... I have a 504 in Kenya, sometimes location matter a lot. I would have made an offer but I don't know how to handle French car problems in the US. In Kenya, this would be a piece of cake and am not a mechanic, just a DIY kinda guy. Saddened!
There is an electronic plug/socket under the air filter box a bit like an old TV scart plug. Its near the back on the right side when you are facing from the front. It degrades and with the vibration over time the connection is broken. XMs will cut out randomly, refuse to start.. with no other symptoms , crank crank crank.. its a well kept Citroen mechanic secret here in France ! Bonjour et bon courage !
We got a lot of second hand XMs from France and Germany sold here in Lithuania, when they were crazy cheap. And older lithuanian Citroen/Peugeot mechanics know about that plug too. Also an amazing plug under the car, that corrodes terribly and you loose rear hydractive valve control (for second generation and transition cars, old first gen rear softness is regulated from front, with additional hydraulic pipe)
Haha, "Breaking News !" ... that was cool 🙃 The head of HR of a large company in Europe that I worked for had one. We had a one to one budget meeting. He idly said to me "You know why I got them to buy me that big Citreon for a company car ? Because although I don't need somthing that big, it's within my allowance, so more fool me if I don't use every penny of the allowance". That was the head of HR telling me get what you can out of your employer. Good advice ! I left the next year when the salary increase I got wasn't enough to get me to stay
Used to read every Haynes manual I could find,whether I was working on the particular vehicle or not.Mostly 100% comprehensive.Great source of information regardless.My favorites were the Mitchell Motor Manuals tho.
With a barn find car that’s been sitting it’s smart to plan on replacing •fuel tank •fuel lines •brake lines •master cylinder •wheel cylinder (drum brakes) •callipers (disc brakes) •fuel pump •carburetor or rebuild kit (if applicable) •plugs,wires,coil •all fluids and filters • AND the parts needed to solve any problems.
Don't forget about the mouse damage. If it's been sitting in a barn for years the mice are guaranteed to have been chewing on it, peeing and crapping in it and hopefully not dying in it. Been there. Done that.
@ you’re absolutely right, that’s harder to budget for when initially purchasing a vehicle. Too many people end up buying something with a minimal reserve fund thinking it’ll be a couple cheap parts.
Rodent damage can be almost invisible sometimes. As an electrical inspector I once found a European Shrew ( like a miniature door mouse) inside a lighting junction box that he had made his home for the winter and had gnawed through several of the cables, causing the trip switch to go.
The XM is a great car. I had a 3.0-litre V6 200HP model for several years with minimum problems, apart from changing the suspension spheres. It's a magic carpet ride; even Rolls Royce uses the same system.
very good lesson here! avoid as much as possible cars that have been messed with and still not running! cool XM, even here in France we rarely see a nice V6 one!
Nicely done. It takes a strong constitution to work on the XM. I have one that's running poorly, and has just sat because of too many other projects. It will get going again next year I think, but they are not easy to work on for sure. This is one of less than a dozen imported as far as I know, although now they are old enough to be brought in without mods. Mine is a CXA import, so fully US compliant.
Family had 3 Citroën XM, always have been a pleasure to drive but came with their lot of issues. Mainly the suspension system and the turbo system. Gotta love them, they are brilliant, powerful and a pleasure to drive.
This is why I never buy any vehicle that has the comment that mentions that it's been "sitting, parked, or in storage" in the description. Once a vehicle has not been operated regularly parts WILL dry up, crack, or wiring has been chewed up by critters. I know a man who restored a vintage car that sat for many years. Unfortunately, rodents had chewed up much of the wiring harness. That was the major issue.
A couple of years back, I had an '82 Citroen CX with the same problem. For months I replaced the fuel pump, fuel lines, coil and distributor module with no luck. Feeling defeated, I sold the car, but on the day the buyer arrived to transport the CX away, I found a broken wire on the ignition relay. The car fired right up. I still sold the car but felt somewhat vindicated. Now, I'm having an almost identical problem with a '91 Lotus Elan m100 ...
My oldest brother sold his '68 Jag E-Type way back in the mid-70s because he could not solve, nor could two different Jag shops solve, a persistent oil leak around the oil filter. I had to drive it across the U.S. with the leak. On selling it to buy a Toyota pickup the dealer told him they'd found the leak and fixed it, it was a stuck over pressure valve. I almost canceled the deal but didn't, but to this day is sad he sold it. Those small problems can be hard to diagnose. I feel you on the CX, I have 6 different CXs, but a friend brought me his to work on and boy oh boy it's a mess.
@@CitEnthusiast I had a close friend and mentor--Mejia--who had been a dealer Citroen mechanic. Funny guy, thought CV2's were silly and made me promise to never buy a CX (due to electrical bugaboos). A couple of years after Mejia passed, I bought that CX. I'm sure Mejia had a good laugh up there in heaven.
Not surprised. It costs a LOT to have a shop chase wiring issues. South Main Auto is another master at finding these. Average shops just cause more problems.
I had one with Turbo D12 engine, great car, but difficult to obtain new parts that are model specific. Guys, check upper strut mounts. It's vulcanise rubber in two metal shells, with age it tears and the whole strut can go through the bonnet. Nothing to do with hydro, just a rubber-metal part. You can see cracks when the car is lifted and turning wheels full lock - it's stressed this way.
Eu spec car have imobilizator as anti theft function. And if someone has tinkering or rodent been in engine bay replace hole wire harness, it's newer design to bee repair.
There was a microphone pop just when you handled the loop where the butt splices were. Using a radio as an electrical diagnostic tool is an oft overlooked technique. Every spark is a broad spectrum radio transmission.
Hello Wizard! I really hope that you will see this message! Im a looong time viewer.. love your work. I have a XM on my channel as well... did a Bunch of stuff to it same model as yours.. the rare 24v! But something is bugging me... its not possible to disable the keypad on these in ANY easy way... you HAVE to press the code every time you start it up! My guess is that someone in the past had forgotten the correct code and made a bypass? and if not.. then I guess the spliced wires you show in the end is actually a bypass of the system? I spend ages finding the code on mine... I took the keypad apart and looked for wear on the print... found 4 numbers with wear and then I just had to try all combination using those 4 numbers... Now it works!... on most Citroens/Peugeots you can remove the connecter from the keypad when the car is running and then not have to deal with the keypad ever again! BUT NOT ON THE XM! I really think that this keypad should be investigated.. something is going on with that... that keypad has nothing to do with the radio....
As far as I know you can remove the connector when car is running on most xm’s, I did on my diesel. maybe It’s not the case With the V6, just never heard it before.
@@SeasideGarage What model year is your XM? To disable this feature you have to change code to the specific one and only then you can disconnect the keypad. I believe it is "1111" for MK2 model.
The hydrologische part is even easyer. If you have the good tools tot is easy to creatie new pipes of nessecary. For sale in the uk. Changing the Spheres is changing thhe shock absorbers. When you know how to do this it is also very easy and much quicker then with normal Cars.
Same thing for me, I have a showroom state 2003 Chrysler Sebring Convertible 2.7l witch has difficult to get parts in Europe (Netherlands or Holland). Just a simple Chrysler, but the parts are a pain in the behind to get.
My son bought a Citroen Xantia this year, with a 2000 CC engine. Although the engine had more than 200000 km on it, it was very good. The problem was the hydropneumatic suspension, it was in a state beyond possible recovery. Although we had a mechanic friend, retired from Citroen, helping out, the cost was too much and the difficulty of getting parts for a car that he wanted for every day and that in the time he had, most of it spent in the workshop. He ended up giving up and selling to limit his losses.
Месяц назад+3
It's too Bad he didn't contact a Club : all necessary hydraulic parts are available from French specialist providers... The only enemy is corrosion.
Salut Thomas. C'était dommage de ne pas connaître l'existence du club, mais l'information est toujours utile, mon ami mécanicien Citroën à la retraite a deux Xantia, ça pourrait lui être utile. Si je trouve un modèle Xantia qui me plaît, je pourrais même l’acheter. C'est une voiture qui a laissé beaucoup de bons souvenirs dans notre famille, nous avions une 1999, mon fils qui s'appelle aussi Thomas, revivait en quelque sorte des souvenirs de son enfance. Merci pour l'information, j'ai déjà le site internet de votre club, si besoin.
@@J.O.J.61Just a note: An engine that runs good at 200k km is nothing unexpected, if its been properly taken care of. In fact, testing shows most engines with that distance ran, actually give the same or even more power output, than a brand new one!
Came to laugh when you said cables are the same color! Did a remote alarm-system when these where new for may dad-in-law and with complete documentation, in Sweden,Europe, it still took me the better part of a weekend! Good job ! Brg Per
We had the 4 cyl 2.4l Turbo diesel station car with black leather seats, an incredible smooth ride, and you could easily fit whatever you needed in the back
The key pad can be removed because I did it and it bypassed the immobiliser, that was some thirty years ago ! All I remember it took hours. On other cars with the Bosch system we just sent the ECU away and had the immobiliser function deleted. The cost of the parts from the dealership (if available) would be more than the vehicle was worth...
Nice one! Many XMs sure did. But now this starts injection, so apparently not the problem this time.
Месяц назад+1
@@KarelSmout It depends on the engine management system, some shut ignition, others the fuel pump, some both IIRC on this V6 it's both, but I can't confirm.
Exactly as the previous post said sounds like immobilizer issue or the previous tinkerer crossed wires. Keep it coming Citroens were my specialty in Europe! Love their maddening engineering 🙃
I used to buy the big manuals for my cars that were extensive and had complete wiring diagrams as well as transmission diagrams and useful info ran around $120(1980's). The helms manuals like the one car wizard showed doesn't show enough info to be of any use for me.
This is a very rare early XM V6 which was considered a great limousine back in the day, the estate versions are so big that people who lost a toddler, years later found a teenager roaming in the back of the car ! Ow and prices are on the up in Europe for these as the ride is so smoooooth.
Hi Wizard, l had a Citroen ZX same era as that one, the ignition key switches are notoriously bad !! Worth a check there, Citroen prior to 2006 had terrible ECU's they didn't like sitting or low use. There a lovely driving car when sorted. I live in the UK n drive Peugeot now Days
Drove one in Europe while back. People still drive them. Great cars. I don't think people realize how comfortable these are. Also, in states, people do not believe in something preventive maintenance, that's why its rare to find a car with half million miles which has less than 3 liter engine. Heck, my neighbor just destroyed his Chevy transmission at 110k miles, never changed oil or filter in it and wonders why it did that....
Good effort fixing that XM ! Here in EU there's not so much of them left either , like his brother car Peugeot 605 even when new they never sell as good as other brand models for some strange reason (seems like most of the people in EU prefere German cars) . I work with PSA brand cars for around 20 years as an "one man operation" , i do agree the wiring on Citroen's is the worst with just few wire colors but both Peugeot and Citroen older models actually use numbers on the wire insulator for idetification and tracing them via wiring diagram (good as long as the number is still visible/readable or the wire ends arent cut !!) Parts wise for older Citroen's and Peugeot's , i had and still have , on certain models issues with those new Bosch ignition modules and pretty much majority of other various brand afrermarket modules . Most often ignition misfire on certain rev range , weak spark , short module life despite heat sink paste . Thus it is best for these older models to source known good old second hand Bosch or Ducellier ignition module , ideally new old stock Bosch or Ducellier module . Also , there was reacently an batch of new 3 wire Bosch crankshaft position sensors for these older and newer Citroen/Peugeot models which where faulty from the factory - mixded up wiring polarity on the sensors ! ( last three digits of part numer on those was *406) .
An engine needs three things to run. The correct air/fuel mixture, compression, and a spark at the right time. Of course, with a computer engine, there are also several thousand other possible issues. Imagine how easy this would be if it were a '60s car with a carburetor, a mechanical fuel pump, and a distributor with points. It would take all of ten minutes to find the problem, and another 10 minutes to fix it.
Check security code system, it's a common problem. On my 605 turbo it stopped working gradually, ohm test cam/crank sensors, neutral safety switch, and ignition switch. Some fuel pump relays also turn on/off the ignition as an accident fuel leak prevention. I have parts for these XM:s.
At least I know that I'll have to replace/fix everything with my 1950 Chevy Pickup that I inherited from my grandfather, and not delusional on if anything works.
I've always wanted to try one of those Citroens with the hydro-pneumatic suspension! I know Jay Leno says it's the most comfortable ride you'll ever have in a car. Too bad they abandoned the technology.
Yes, the suspension is unique, it's not like in any other car (except other cars with the same suspension system). I had two of them, first a Citroën BX19 GTI 1989 and later a Citroën C5 HDI 2.0 Tourer 2008. Now I don't have a car at all. If I can't have a car with that suspension, then I don't want a car at all.
I want to remember these citrons have a VERY tricky immobiliser anti-theft system in them to prevent engine to start unless you dial in a correct number ber code on the digit pannel.
There’s a 4 dig code key immobilizer in between the two front seats. If the ignition is changed out it clears the immobilization code out causes no spark
At least it sounds like this very complicated XM, with a semi cut up wiring harness has a future. Where as the very simple, robust 505 with a few cut wires has no hope. Just amazing how that works out huh? 😁
Few years ago I purchased a non running 05 F250 with the 3v engine. I suspected that it needed an engine and I was right. Valve train was totally wiped out and engine was full of sludge.
Imagine that someone "repaired' some non color coded wires and put them back the wrong way.when i saw those blue connectors i was suspicious as well.good job getting it running again.
To me a car can be worth salvaging if there's no rust and the mechanics in general is in good shape. Hoses, seals and wires costs time but the parts are relatively cheap. Electronics - that's always a challenge, it could be easy to fix or it could be filled with custom ICs.
Only needs a battery? Why didn’t they put one in! Here in Manitoba, cars have to be saftied before they can be plated. So the excuses are similar. “Won’t take much to saftey” “Shouldn’t need anything”. Same question then is why didn’t they just have it done ahead!
We bought a High Wheel 1913 bicycle in a barn that supposedly worked great when parked, and while we were loading it up, our grandkids discovered a skeleton with a broken neck under a pile of old hay nearby.(just kidding).
Thanks for getting the XM going Wizard! I can’t wait to drive it!
Since this is being presented as a "barn find", one thing to look out for is the upper front strut mounts failing. Carefully check for cracks and tears. NOS is NLA. However, reproductions have come onto the market in the past few years. If those struts break free, they will go up through your hood.
That was the one fear I had when I considered buying an XM wagon (!) here in San Diego some years ago.
Wait to you get the BILL!
@@anthonypeck3588 I wasn't so much worried about the bill (yah, I saw what you did there 😉). I've been playing with French cars pretty much my entire life. Hell, I started a hobby making replacement wire looms for the Citroën D. What turned me away from that XM was the possible sudden failure of those upper strut mounts.
@@billh230 I had a Xantia with the same potential issue. My mechanic, a Citroen specialist, recommended replacing the mounts at a specified period, once every 6 or so years as a preventative measure.
What about the suspension spheres check and LHM fluid flush? Both will be needed after years of sitting
Once bought a Cadillac for $250. I was told it probably needed a fuel pump because it wouldn't start. I needed a car to make a property look lived in. For the hell of it, one day I put fuel in and charged the battery. It started right up. Kept it until I sold the property. The car looked great. Even though it was 32 Canadian years old, it had its original exhaust, the self levelling and power antennae worked. It did need power steering lines that had rusted. Engine ran quietly, transmission shifted like a Cadillac. So you never know.
I have had 3 of these over the years, amazing cars, unless the green light comes on next to the keypad, it will not start. The Xm,s have two codes, one to start it, a Valet code which will unlock it, let everything work, but will not start. There also on some models. Later one had a service code which completely turns the keypad of for 15 starts, then re enables.
No green light, no spark, no start. Fuel pump will run, but no ignition spark. Its ment to be like that, that’s the hole point of the immobiliser. Citroen Xantias are exactly the same
I heard that XM's had a slightly more advanced version of the system used in Xantias, where as all the Peugeots that used the system including the 605 which shared the platform with the XM, shared the less advanced unit used in the Xantia. I own a 1997 Peugeot 605 and after a few years of sitting and other cars taking its place, i have managed to forget the code, and from little bit of research i heard that Xm's have a different variation of the immobilizer system.
@
You could well be right, mine were all U.K spec. I bought one with no code, carefully took the keypad apart, so I could work out what 4 numbers had been used the most, lucky me as 10 try of various combinations I got lucky and started.
@@Hipas_Account '95 (MY96) onwards XM's automatically give a green light if you unlock the car via the remote and then turn the ignition on quickly enough (within 30 seconds I believe). That doesn't apply to this XM though, as it's a ph1. So unless someone disabled the keypad in the past, you need the code to start it. I usually write the code onto the ECU of the car.
@@Hipas_Account
There have been several evolutions of this system.
Peugeot and Citroën had the same at the same time
A Xantia had something similar until MY98 : the XM added an "automatic" feature (unlock it with the remote control), the Xantia (facelift) got a Key with chip inside and a completely new immo system.
There's also variants (old base models) of the XM with no code keypad or anti-theft system. But the V6 likely couldn't be paired with that trim level.
There is a keypad between the seats, thats the immobilizer. The code HAS to be entered before each startup. Try 0001 or 1111 as these are usually the garage codes. However, if the owner tried to disconnect the keypad and did it wrong, then the ECU is most likely locked.
I know someone locked out of there car at grocery store.paid to tow it to dealership
Ha yeah my parents' Peugeot 406 had this system too ^^ .
Absolutely this. Was just about to write this.
The code pad LED stays red if locked.
Literally also the first thing that i thought of.
Wizard: If you are not aware of this, there is a 12mm bypass screw on the (hydraulic) pressure regulator on the engine. I tell you this because I see that you have lifted the hydraulic reservoir out. When doing that, you likely get air in the supply pipe for the pump and it will not build any pressure. So if this happened, find the 12mm on the regulator near the green accumulator and open it a little bit (maximum one turn), run the engine for a minute and while running, tighten the screw and now it should build pressure again. -If you didn't know that already. :) Also, if you feel unsure about if you are at the right screw, it's the only 12mm on the whole engine.
Nice to see that you got it running. Starting problems on these are usually fuel pump, ground points in engine bay, injection relays on the ECU box, ignition module (same as Volvo 940) and flywheel sensor. But I have seen damaged wiring too. Anyway, nice to see it purr again. I know where to look for rust under these cars and this one looked really nice. Feel free to ask any questions if there are any other issues. They are really good cars, but you have to learn their quirks. And that's what old men like me are here for.
ps. The bleeding with the bypass screw-procedure is the exact same on the DS, but they have the old seven piston pump and can usually bleed themselves just by running the engine.
Very nice of you to point out one of the MANY important peculiarities of the Citroën system... 👏
Ah, this reminds me of "the old days", on Citroënakuten! 😊
Yep, like 'the AC just needs a regas' means 'the AC is completely shot and you need to tear half the car apart to fix it'.
Lol, so true.
I bought a used pick-up truck from someone, and they told me the ac is completely stuffed up. Drove it for a year, then my buddy who came to visit regassed it, and it worked perfectly again. Just needs a regas every 4 to 5 years 😁😁😁
@@BubblesTheCat1fuck you how's brag camp going
Wizard, I can truly say you're one of the very few i can actually sit and listen to without zipping through to the end.
Me too!❤nice voice and cool explanation, really helpful too
I have bought and sold a number of cars (200?) and on most flips, the problem was often a simple fix. The real problem, was finding the small problem.
Here in Finland these (and many other models of) Citroéns were quite common at their time. After these accumulated 200,000 kilometers or reached 10 years or so, of age -no-one- wanted these and the value of these was the value of scrap metal. These were so prone to problems that there was absolutely no financial sense in fixing these.
Yep, here in the UK, no one will touch over 10 years old french cars (says he still driving his fathers 2007 xsara picasso but only 50k miles on the clock) prescisely because you get a lot of features for the money but when they start going wrong (usually after 10 years and especially those with the ribbon cable wiring) they're just money pits.
itellä näitä 2 ja käytiin molemmilla autoilla kesällä 8000km reissu eurooppaan ilman minkään laisia ongelmia
I love the exterior look of the XM. Such a striking, aerodynamic design. But that engine bay? Wires and hoses running everywhere? What a horrid mess. You just know that mechanical service is a nightmare. It's a real shame Citroen didn't do a better job on that.
To be fair, it's kinda typical for French cars.
That’s likely why they aren’t sold here in the U.S. anymore
My step dad bought one like that, XM V6 brand new in 1992. He kept it for 12 years, very good car ! Cheers from France guys.
We have a lot of these in my home country Macedonia
@@Bizija123 How so? I'm from Bulgaria and you cannot see any of them anymore
@@valentinexristov8915 we still keep the old cars. Open classified ads and it's flooded with xm, xsaras, and other citroens.
Not Italian spaghetti but French spaghetti, .... so ...... that's BETTER????? 🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣
You're so funny!!!!
Most dealers don't go through vehicles like Bob does. He is one of the good dealers that cares about his reputation. Rodents love barn finds too.
that 505.....
I have a 504 in Kenya, sometimes location matter a lot.
I would have made an offer but I don't know how to handle French car problems in the US.
In Kenya, this would be a piece of cake and am not a mechanic, just a DIY kinda guy.
Saddened!
There is an electronic plug/socket under the air filter box a bit like an old TV scart plug. Its near the back on the right side when you are facing from the front. It degrades and with the vibration over time the connection is broken. XMs will cut out randomly, refuse to start.. with no other symptoms , crank crank crank.. its a well kept Citroen mechanic secret here in France !
Bonjour et bon courage !
We got a lot of second hand XMs from France and Germany sold here in Lithuania, when they were crazy cheap. And older lithuanian Citroen/Peugeot mechanics know about that plug too. Also an amazing plug under the car, that corrodes terribly and you loose rear hydractive valve control (for second generation and transition cars, old first gen rear softness is regulated from front, with additional hydraulic pipe)
Haha, "Breaking News !" ... that was cool 🙃 The head of HR of a large company in Europe that I worked for had one. We had a one to one budget meeting. He idly said to me "You know why I got them to buy me that big Citreon for a company car ? Because although I don't need somthing that big, it's within my allowance, so more fool me if I don't use every penny of the allowance". That was the head of HR telling me get what you can out of your employer. Good advice ! I left the next year when the salary increase I got wasn't enough to get me to stay
Seaside Garage did a whole series on a troublesome XM. Love to see one on your channel!
That was a great series
I remember my childhood in 90's Western Germany...everybody seeing that car said, that this XM was a car for crazy art teachers and architects.
Used to read every Haynes manual I could find,whether I was working on the particular vehicle or not.Mostly 100% comprehensive.Great source of information regardless.My favorites were the Mitchell Motor Manuals tho.
I love sellers.
“It was running the last time it was running.”
No $hit.
Yep, what could possibly happen in 10, 15, 20 or even 30 years, right? If it ran then, it will surely run now....... right?
Please don't self censor. Only a pussy would do as such.
Pretty much each day i pass by an Saab 95 parked near the road with the for sale note on the windscreen saying "only ran out of petrol" ..
With a barn find car that’s been sitting it’s smart to plan on replacing
•fuel tank
•fuel lines
•brake lines
•master cylinder
•wheel cylinder (drum brakes)
•callipers (disc brakes)
•fuel pump
•carburetor or rebuild kit (if applicable)
•plugs,wires,coil
•all fluids and filters
• AND the parts needed to solve any problems.
Immobilizer system. Keypad between seats .
Don't forget about the mouse damage. If it's been sitting in a barn for years the mice are guaranteed to have been chewing on it, peeing and crapping in it and hopefully not dying in it. Been there. Done that.
@ you’re absolutely right, that’s harder to budget for when initially purchasing a vehicle. Too many people end up buying something with a minimal reserve fund thinking it’ll be a couple cheap parts.
Rodent damage can be almost invisible sometimes. As an electrical inspector I once found a European Shrew ( like a miniature door mouse) inside a lighting junction box that he had made his home for the winter and had gnawed through several of the cables, causing the trip switch to go.
The XM is a great car. I had a 3.0-litre V6 200HP model for several years with minimum problems, apart from changing the suspension spheres. It's a magic carpet ride; even Rolls Royce uses the same system.
Only the rolls implementation is far far less reliable than the Citroen versions!
very good lesson here! avoid as much as possible cars that have been messed with and still not running!
cool XM, even here in France we rarely see a nice V6 one!
I had an XM years ago. It was such a joy to ride: extremely comfortable, very spacious and I always loved the looks. But man, it was complicated!
Nicely done. It takes a strong constitution to work on the XM. I have one that's running poorly, and has just sat because of too many other projects. It will get going again next year I think, but they are not easy to work on for sure. This is one of less than a dozen imported as far as I know, although now they are old enough to be brought in without mods. Mine is a CXA import, so fully US compliant.
Just needs:
Battery or
Fuel pump or
Starter or
A/C recharge or
Tune up or or or or...a little TLC...etc.
Family had 3 Citroën XM, always have been a pleasure to drive but came with their lot of issues. Mainly the suspension system and the turbo system. Gotta love them, they are brilliant, powerful and a pleasure to drive.
This is why I never buy any vehicle that has the comment that mentions that it's been "sitting, parked, or in storage" in the description. Once a vehicle has not been operated regularly parts WILL dry up, crack, or wiring has been chewed up by critters. I know a man who restored a vintage car that sat for many years. Unfortunately, rodents had chewed up much of the wiring harness. That was the major issue.
A couple of years back, I had an '82 Citroen CX with the same problem. For months I replaced the fuel pump, fuel lines, coil and distributor module with no luck. Feeling defeated, I sold the car, but on the day the buyer arrived to transport the CX away, I found a broken wire on the ignition relay. The car fired right up.
I still sold the car but felt somewhat vindicated.
Now, I'm having an almost identical problem with a '91 Lotus Elan m100 ...
My oldest brother sold his '68 Jag E-Type way back in the mid-70s because he could not solve, nor could two different Jag shops solve, a persistent oil leak around the oil filter. I had to drive it across the U.S. with the leak. On selling it to buy a Toyota pickup the dealer told him they'd found the leak and fixed it, it was a stuck over pressure valve. I almost canceled the deal but didn't, but to this day is sad he sold it. Those small problems can be hard to diagnose. I feel you on the CX, I have 6 different CXs, but a friend brought me his to work on and boy oh boy it's a mess.
@@CitEnthusiast I had a close friend and mentor--Mejia--who had been a dealer Citroen mechanic. Funny guy, thought CV2's were silly and made me promise to never buy a CX (due to electrical bugaboos). A couple of years after Mejia passed, I bought that CX.
I'm sure Mejia had a good laugh up there in heaven.
Not surprised. It costs a LOT to have a shop chase wiring issues. South Main Auto is another master at finding these. Average shops just cause more problems.
I had one with Turbo D12 engine, great car, but difficult to obtain new parts that are model specific. Guys, check upper strut mounts. It's vulcanise rubber in two metal shells, with age it tears and the whole strut can go through the bonnet. Nothing to do with hydro, just a rubber-metal part. You can see cracks when the car is lifted and turning wheels full lock - it's stressed this way.
Eu spec car have imobilizator as anti theft function. And if someone has tinkering or rodent been in engine bay replace hole wire harness, it's newer design to bee repair.
Mrs. Wizard’s part-works are truly super nice and high quality by the way. Not enough people give her credit!
There was a microphone pop just when you handled the loop where the butt splices were. Using a radio as an electrical diagnostic tool is an oft overlooked technique. Every spark is a broad spectrum radio transmission.
Hello Wizard!
I really hope that you will see this message! Im a looong time viewer.. love your work.
I have a XM on my channel as well... did a Bunch of stuff to it same model as yours.. the rare 24v!
But something is bugging me... its not possible to disable the keypad on these in ANY easy way... you HAVE to press the code every time you start it up!
My guess is that someone in the past had forgotten the correct code and made a bypass? and if not.. then I guess the spliced wires you show in the end is actually a bypass of the system?
I spend ages finding the code on mine... I took the keypad apart and looked for wear on the print... found 4 numbers with wear and then I just had to try all combination using those 4 numbers... Now it works!... on most Citroens/Peugeots you can remove the connecter from the keypad when the car is running and then not have to deal with the keypad ever again! BUT NOT ON THE XM!
I really think that this keypad should be investigated.. something is going on with that... that keypad has nothing to do with the radio....
Love your channel. Miss the CX, enjoying the AZU.
As far as I know you can remove the connector when car is running on most xm’s, I did on my diesel. maybe It’s not the case With the V6, just never heard it before.
@@fredjohnson8304 Happy to hear that!
@@skjalgiversen8709 The 24v XM cuts out when the connecter is pulled out. :)
Well mine does anyway.,,
@@SeasideGarage What model year is your XM? To disable this feature you have to change code to the specific one and only then you can disconnect the keypad. I believe it is "1111" for MK2 model.
These Cars Are easy to work on. When you know what you’re doing. The Factory documentation is very good. Especialy the electric part.
The hydrologische part is even easyer. If you have the good tools tot is easy to creatie new pipes of nessecary. For sale in the uk. Changing the Spheres is changing thhe shock absorbers. When you know how to do this it is also very easy and much quicker then with normal Cars.
Same thing for me, I have a showroom state 2003 Chrysler Sebring Convertible 2.7l witch has difficult to get parts in Europe (Netherlands or Holland). Just a simple Chrysler, but the parts are a pain in the behind to get.
My son bought a Citroen Xantia this year, with a 2000 CC engine. Although the engine had more than 200000 km on it, it was very good. The problem was the hydropneumatic suspension, it was in a state beyond possible recovery. Although we had a mechanic friend, retired from Citroen, helping out, the cost was too much and the difficulty of getting parts for a car that he wanted for every day and that in the time he had, most of it spent in the workshop.
He ended up giving up and selling to limit his losses.
It's too Bad he didn't contact a Club : all necessary hydraulic parts are available from French specialist providers...
The only enemy is corrosion.
Salut Thomas. C'était dommage de ne pas connaître l'existence du club, mais l'information est toujours utile, mon ami mécanicien Citroën à la retraite a deux Xantia, ça pourrait lui être utile.
Si je trouve un modèle Xantia qui me plaît, je pourrais même l’acheter.
C'est une voiture qui a laissé beaucoup de bons souvenirs dans notre famille, nous avions une 1999, mon fils qui s'appelle aussi Thomas, revivait en quelque sorte des souvenirs de son enfance.
Merci pour l'information, j'ai déjà le site internet de votre club, si besoin.
@@J.O.J.61Just a note: An engine that runs good at 200k km is nothing unexpected, if its been properly taken care of. In fact, testing shows most engines with that distance ran, actually give the same or even more power output, than a brand new one!
Came to laugh when you said cables are the same color! Did a remote alarm-system when these where new for may dad-in-law and with complete documentation, in Sweden,Europe, it still took me the better part of a weekend! Good job !
Brg Per
In the late 70s into the early 80s it was the mass of vacuum hoses, then it was mass wiring then came a mass amount of cheap plastic parts.
Car Wizard is a great RUclips channel!
We had the 4 cyl 2.4l Turbo diesel station car with black leather seats, an incredible smooth ride, and you could easily fit whatever you needed in the back
Yep, just a fuel pump, so many CraigsList cars run rough just need a tune up. Thats why they are on Craigslist.
I had a similar case, it ended up being 3 bad capacitors on the ECU board.
The key pad can be removed because I did it and it bypassed the immobiliser, that was some thirty years ago ! All I remember it took hours. On other cars with the Bosch system we just sent the ECU away and had the immobiliser function deleted. The cost of the parts from the dealership (if available) would be more than the vehicle was worth...
Citroens had a anti-theft keypad on certain models, maybe it waits a correct code to startup?
Nice one! Many XMs sure did. But now this starts injection, so apparently not the problem this time.
@@KarelSmout
It depends on the engine management system, some shut ignition, others the fuel pump, some both
IIRC on this V6 it's both, but I can't confirm.
Thanks Weeezard ! !
Exactly as the previous post said sounds like immobilizer issue or the previous tinkerer crossed wires. Keep it coming Citroens were my specialty in Europe! Love their maddening engineering 🙃
Another great video. Wonderfull update of the XM.
Have you ever considered to buy a new loom for the intire engine bay?
I used to buy the big manuals for my cars that were extensive and had complete wiring diagrams as well as transmission diagrams and useful info ran around $120(1980's). The helms manuals like the one car wizard showed doesn't show enough info to be of any use for me.
This is a very rare early XM V6 which was considered a great limousine back in the day, the estate versions are so big that people who lost a toddler, years later found a teenager roaming in the back of the car ! Ow and prices are on the up in Europe for these as the ride is so smoooooth.
Hi Wizard, l had a Citroen ZX same era as that one, the ignition key switches are notoriously bad !!
Worth a check there, Citroen prior to 2006 had terrible ECU's they didn't like sitting or low use.
There a lovely driving car when sorted.
I live in the UK n drive Peugeot now Days
Brave man taking on a XM.
Drove one in Europe while back. People still drive them. Great cars. I don't think people realize how comfortable these are.
Also, in states, people do not believe in something preventive maintenance, that's why its rare to find a car with half million miles which has less than 3 liter engine.
Heck, my neighbor just destroyed his Chevy transmission at 110k miles, never changed oil or filter in it and wonders why it did that....
I was sitting here thinking "What if they hooked up the wrong wires on those blue wire connectors".... Love the channel Thanks!
Have you checked the ignition code pad located in the center between the two seats? If you do not put the correct code it will never starts
Nice 👍🏻
I highly recommend NZ Diagnostics channel as well. These 2 are my fav automotive channels.
Good effort fixing that XM !
Here in EU there's not so much of them left either , like his brother car Peugeot 605 even when new they never sell as good as other brand models for some strange reason (seems like most of the people in EU prefere German cars) .
I work with PSA brand cars for around 20 years as an "one man operation" , i do agree the wiring on Citroen's is the worst with just few wire colors but both Peugeot and Citroen older models actually use numbers on the wire insulator for idetification and tracing them via wiring diagram (good as long as the number is still visible/readable or the wire ends arent cut !!)
Parts wise for older Citroen's and Peugeot's , i had and still have , on certain models issues with those new Bosch ignition modules and pretty much majority of other various brand afrermarket modules .
Most often ignition misfire on certain rev range , weak spark , short module life despite heat sink paste .
Thus it is best for these older models to source known good old second hand Bosch or Ducellier ignition module , ideally new old stock Bosch or Ducellier module .
Also , there was reacently an batch of new 3 wire Bosch crankshaft position sensors for these older and newer Citroen/Peugeot models which where faulty from the factory - mixded up wiring polarity on the sensors ! ( last three digits of part numer on those was *406) .
You're right again about this subject.
The stores here though have stopped selling the Haynes manuals for some reason. Some people are out of luck.
An engine needs three things to run. The correct air/fuel mixture, compression, and a spark at the right time. Of course, with a computer engine, there are also several thousand other possible issues. Imagine how easy this would be if it were a '60s car with a carburetor, a mechanical fuel pump, and a distributor with points. It would take all of ten minutes to find the problem, and another 10 minutes to fix it.
Just so you know.. The wiring looms didnt come like that from the factory.. they're definitely tampered with... seriously 😎
Check security code system, it's a common problem. On my 605 turbo it stopped working gradually, ohm test cam/crank sensors, neutral safety switch, and ignition switch. Some fuel pump relays also turn on/off the ignition as an accident fuel leak prevention. I have parts for these XM:s.
At least I know that I'll have to replace/fix everything with my 1950 Chevy Pickup that I inherited from my grandfather, and not delusional on if anything works.
It is the crank position sensor. Load the parts cannon.....ready, aim, FIRE!
Electrical problems are the most challenging for me. Good job on your methodical approach.
I love citrons no matter whatHave a great day
Amen!
citron in french means lemon
Remember, in the Colombo series, Patrick Mcgoohen(I probably butchered his name) drove a really cool light lime green 2 door and it looked super.
Bosch is a swearword. That's funny. And also accurate.
Now that it runs - you taking a spin and doing a review would be awesome.
Ah, the XM. Very good cars. Almost reliable. Which is good. Drives like a Citroën. No speed bumps anymore!
Divide and conquer is absolutely the correct way to trace issues on a car like this!
I didn't know the Haynes Manuals came in Hardcover.
Sure do, in the UK at least.
I've always wanted to try one of those Citroens with the hydro-pneumatic suspension! I know Jay Leno says it's the most comfortable ride you'll ever have in a car. Too bad they abandoned the technology.
Yes, the suspension is unique, it's not like in any other car (except other cars with the same suspension system). I had two of them, first a Citroën BX19 GTI 1989 and later a Citroën C5 HDI 2.0 Tourer 2008. Now I don't have a car at all. If I can't have a car with that suspension, then I don't want a car at all.
I want to remember these citrons have a VERY tricky immobiliser anti-theft system in them to prevent engine to start unless you dial in a correct number ber code on the digit pannel.
Have you checked the immobilizer keypad?
You should also check the crank position sensor, I had a no start and the trigger wheel was damaged
There’s a 4 dig code key immobilizer in between the two front seats. If the ignition is changed out it clears the immobilization code out causes no spark
This is a really cool car! Glad you got it running again.
At least it sounds like this very complicated XM, with a semi cut up wiring harness has a future. Where as the very simple, robust 505 with a few cut wires has no hope. Just amazing how that works out huh? 😁
“Ain’t got no gas”
Yeah I just acquired a 1983 Delorean and it's been sitting since 1990 not sure if I even want to try to get it going 🙃
Fun to see something I have never seen on the road
Does this have the security code box behind the gear selector ? That can be a hell to fix , if you don't have the code , I hope not 🤪👍
Citroen still provides the reset code sometimes, but yes it has and thats the only reason the car won't start
@ wow , good news 😅👍
Few years ago I purchased a non running 05 F250 with the 3v engine. I suspected that it needed an engine and I was right. Valve train was totally wiped out and engine was full of sludge.
Ya it drove to that spot where it quit 😂
Imagine that someone "repaired' some non color coded wires and put them back the wrong way.when i saw those blue connectors i was suspicious as well.good job getting it running again.
To me a car can be worth salvaging if there's no rust and the mechanics in general is in good shape.
Hoses, seals and wires costs time but the parts are relatively cheap.
Electronics - that's always a challenge, it could be easy to fix or it could be filled with custom ICs.
2:48 Ho I work on a friend's Citroen AX from time to time and they have this kind of strange ribbon cables for the taillights.
I used to try and keep 1 of these driving when i worked at a Citroen dealers. Almost every part is unobtainable and im in the UK.
This is why you don't bring your barn find to a mechanic that charges this much. It's a diy project of love or forget it.
Yes but who have fucking lift in their garage. Id be happy to fix my Citroen C5 on my own if I had one
Only needs a battery? Why didn’t they put one in! Here in Manitoba, cars have to be saftied before they can be plated. So the excuses are similar. “Won’t take much to saftey” “Shouldn’t need anything”. Same question then is why didn’t they just have it done ahead!
In the same video:
"This Citroen DS just needs some timkering with the suspension here and there". Right, so overhauling half the car.
"The seller would take care of it to get more money"
Most hydraulic suspension tasks are very easily done.
You can find this engine in every french car,Renault and Pegout as well. Parts are easy to find here
That is an odd ball car for sure. Good luck finding someone who wants to buy it!!~
You need compression AND spark at the right time ( timing )
there is maybe a code to get it running, under the radio, maybe a lock code then the light turns green, watch that
Had an old VW with similar issues. Crank no start, no spark. Turned out to be a faulty (worn out) ignition switch.
We bought a High Wheel 1913 bicycle in a barn that supposedly worked great when parked, and while we were loading it up, our grandkids discovered a skeleton with a broken neck under a pile of old hay nearby.(just kidding).
Thank you Wizard..... l really liked this video !
Old Shoe🇺🇸
The inside of the hood looks like a new car....incredible....