C4 Picassobuyer's guide

The B78 C4 Picasso is a genuinely clever family MPV, but it carries the same heavy diesel risk as the rest of the PSA range: AdBlue/DPF/EGR emissions faults at $400–$2,200 and timing belt/chain service gaps that quietly build toward $500–$4,500 of internal engine damage. The panoramic windscreen and large glass roof that make the cabin so appealing also create their own leak and drain-blockage problems. Get these checks wrong and the running costs overtake the savings fast.

This guide covers ten documented issues: AdBlue/DPF/EGR emissions fault, timing belt/chain service risk, DSG/automatic/clutch judder, coolant leak or water pump fault, infotainment/software electrical faults, suspension knocks and tyre wear, brake corrosion or EPB fault, panoramic roof or boot water leak, turbo boost leak or actuator fault, and recall/campaign status. Each fault has a field check and a real repair-cost range.

A well-documented B78 C4 Picasso with clean emissions, confirmed timing work, and no water ingress is one of the best-value seven-seat used buys in the EU market. This guide tells you whether the one you're looking at actually qualifies.