Used Citroën Nemo

What to know before buying: Citroën Nemo

From 3 video reviews and 3 press tests · updated 23/09/2026

What the reviews say

• A very compact urban van with 2.5m³ of load space; the folding Extenso passenger seat increases this to 2.8m³.[4][5][1]Nemo
• Light steering, a tight turning circle and compact dimensions suit city driving, but the ride is choppy on uneven roads.[4][5][1]Nemo
• The driving position is upright, with adjustable seat and steering wheel, though the cab is tighter than in larger compact vans.[4][1]Nemo
• The Nemo Multispace has ample room for four adults and useful sliding doors, though its basic cabin reveals its van origins.[3]one sourceNemo

Typical faults

• Front strut top-mount bearings are prone to wear; clunking while turning the steering wheel is a warning sign.[4][5][2]Nemo
• The 1.3 HDi timing chain can stretch; rattling for a few seconds after a cold start warns of possible chain failure and severe engine damage.[2]one sourceNemo

  1.3 HDi

• The 1.3 diesel can suffer turbo trouble; white smoke when cold, low oil level or oil leaks can indicate a fault.[2][5]Nemo

  1.3 HDi

• Costly injector faults are reported on the 1.3 diesel; uneven running and fuel around the injectors are warning signs.[2]one sourceNemo

  1.3 HDi

• The particulate filter on later 1.3 diesels can clog, especially when the van has mainly covered short journeys.[5]one sourceNemo

  1.3 HDi

• With intensive use, Nemo clutch wear may appear around 100,000–120,000km, causing slip, difficult shifts, noise or vibration.[6]one sourceNemo

  100 000–120 000 km

Which engine and version to take

• The 1.3 HDi is the preferred choice, ideally the later HDi 80; it is more refined and stronger than the earlier 1.4 HDi.[4][5]Nemo

What to avoid

• Avoid the 1.4 petrol in the Nemo Multispace because of its weak acceleration; the 1.4 HDi's torque suits daily driving better.[3]one sourceNemo
• The SensoDrive semi-automatic is best avoided: shifts are slow, hesitant and often rough, while especially harsh operation may indicate actuator failure.[5]one sourceNemo

What to check at the inspection

• Start the 1.3 HDi completely cold and listen for timing-chain rattle during the first few seconds.[2]one sourceNemo
• With the engine cold, inspect the exhaust, oil level and turbo area; white smoke, low oil or leaks can signal turbo trouble.[2][5]Nemo
• Turn the steering wheel while stationary and listen for clunks from the front strut top mounts.[2][5]Nemo
• Check gear-lever play in neutral; excessive looseness can indicate a faulty lever or selector mechanism.[2]one sourceNemo
• Check the service record against recalls covering crankshaft lubrication, connecting-rod bearings and the rear crossmember.[4][5]Nemo
• Inspect the load bay, seats and steering wheel, and compare their wear with the claimed mileage; they can reveal a hard working life.[4][5]Nemo

Verdict

Sources

1. [1]Car and Driving - Car Reviews — Citroen Nemo Van 2007-2017 | FULL REVIEW CITROEN NEMO VAN | WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW... · ▶ video
2. [2]Max The Van Dealer — 5 COMMON PROBLEMS / ISSUES / FAULTS WITH A CITROEN NEMO 1.3 LITRE DIESEL VAN · ▶ video
3. [3]Car and Driving - Car Reviews — Citroen Nemo Multispace 2009-2015 - FULL REVIEW · ▶ video
4. [4]rac.co.uk — Citroen Nemo (2007-2017) used car review · press
5. [5]parkers.co.uk — Citroen Nemo review and buying guide (2008-2017) · press
6. [6]totalrenting.es — Citroen Nemo Problemas | Fallos y averías más frecuentes · press

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