Citroën ë-SpaceTourer Problems Issues and Repair Costs
The Citroën ë-SpaceTourer is a fully electric version of the SpaceTourer MPV. It shares its platform with the Peugeot e-Traveller and Vauxhall Vivaro-e Life, making it a popular choice for families, taxi drivers, and shuttle services who want a quiet, zero-emission people carrier. While the ë-SpaceTourer is practical and fairly reliable, owners have reported a few recurring issues. In this guide, we’ll cover the most common problems, the causes behind them, and the average cost to repair these faults in the UK.
ë-SpaceTourer Key Facts
- Released: 2020
- Battery sizes: 50 kWh and 75 kWh
- Claimed range: 136 to 205 miles WLTP
- Real-world range: Around 100 to 160 miles
- Charging: Up to 100 kW DC fast charge, 7.4 or 11 kW AC
- Seating: 5 to 9 seats depending on model
The ë-SpaceTourer is ideal for short-distance travel and urban use, but it’s important to know what to expect when it comes to maintenance and reliability.
Common Citroën ë-SpaceTourer Problems and Repair Costs
1. Charging Port Problems
Symptoms: Charging won’t start, charger stops suddenly, warning on dashboard
Common causes: Faulty locking pin in charge port, software bug, bad connection
Typical repair cost:
- Diagnosis and reset: £60 to £90
- Replace charge port actuator: £150 to £220
- Cable or sensor fault repair: £100 to £180
This is one of the most reported issues, especially after fast charging sessions. It’s often fixed by a software update or small part replacement.
2. Battery Range Drop or Charge Errors
Symptoms: Range showing less than usual, stuck charge percentage, charging takes longer
Common causes: Battery imbalance, software misread, or degradation (rare)
Typical repair cost:
- Software reset or update: £80 to £120
- Cell balancing service: £150 to £300
- Battery module repair (if needed): £1,200 to £3,000
Most of the time, these issues are not due to actual battery damage but poor software calibration. Citroën can usually fix this at a main dealer.
3. Poor Cabin Heating Performance
Symptoms: Cabin stays cold, slow to heat up, major range loss when using heater
Common causes: Faulty electric heater unit or cabin sensor
Typical repair cost:
- Cabin heater replacement: £350 to £550
- Filter replacement or sensor reset: £40 to £70
- Software update to improve heating: £60 to £100
Electric heaters in these vehicles draw power directly from the battery. Some early models have weak heating, especially in cold UK weather.
4. Frozen or Laggy Touchscreen System
Symptoms: Display lags, buttons stop responding, no Bluetooth or sat nav
Common causes: Old software, memory overload, weak 12V battery
Typical repair cost:
- Infotainment reset or update: £60 to £100
- Touchscreen unit replacement: £400 to £700
- Replace 12V battery: £100 to £160
A weak 12V battery can cause multiple electrical glitches, so it’s always the first thing to test if the screen starts misbehaving.
5. Charging Flap Won’t Open or Close
Symptoms: Charging door stuck, flap won’t unlock, cable won’t release
Common causes: Stuck motor, mechanical fault or moisture buildup
Typical repair cost:
- Replace flap actuator: £120 to £180
- Manual release mechanism repair: £60 to £90
- Full flap unit: £100 to £150
This issue is often seen after rain or frost. Make sure to keep the flap clean and avoid using force if it’s frozen shut.
6. Wrong Range Display or State of Charge
Symptoms: Range estimate jumps around, shows zero after charging, stuck percentage
Common causes: Battery sensor error, display software glitch
Typical repair cost:
- Update BMS (Battery Management System): £60 to £100
- Recalibrate sensors: £100 to £150
- Replace sensor (rare): £150 to £250
This doesn’t always mean battery damage. If the car is driving fine but showing the wrong range, it’s usually just a digital display error.
7. Suspension Wear from Heavy Loads
Symptoms: Rear end sags when loaded, clunking noise over bumps, uneven tyre wear
Common causes: Worn springs or shocks, especially on 8 or 9 seat models
Typical repair cost:
- Rear shock or spring: £150 to £250 per side
- Mount or bush replacement: £80 to £150
- Wheel alignment: £50 to £80
Extra battery weight and constant passenger use puts stress on the suspension. Taxi and airport shuttle drivers should check it regularly.
Routine Servicing Costs for ë-SpaceTourer in the UK
Electric vehicles cost less to maintain than diesel vans, but they still need regular checks to stay reliable.
Average UK service prices:
- EV system inspection: £90 to £140
- Brake fluid change (every 2 years): £60 to £90
- Cabin filter replacement: £30 to £50
- Air conditioning service: £60 to £90
- 12V battery replacement: £100 to £150
- Diagnostic scan and software update: £60 to £100
Because the ë-SpaceTourer has no oil or clutch, it avoids many typical service items from combustion vans.
Known Recalls and Software Fixes
Citroën has issued a few service bulletins and recalls for the ë-SpaceTourer, including:
- Incorrect battery range display
- Charge port actuator fault
- Rear airbag software update
- Infotainment crashes due to outdated firmware
You can check for outstanding recalls using the GOV.UK recall checker with your registration number.
What to Check Before Buying a Used ë-SpaceTourer
- Confirm battery warranty (8 years or 100,000 miles from new)
- Ask for proof of software updates
- Test charging at a fast charger and home charger
- Check touchscreen, sat nav and Bluetooth performance
- Inspect suspension height when loaded
- Test heating and air conditioning in all modes
- Book a pre-purchase EV inspection with CAREXAMER, the UK’s top mobile car inspection service
Final Thoughts
The Citroën ë-SpaceTourer is one of the most practical all-electric MPVs on the market. It drives well, runs quietly, and saves money on fuel and maintenance. But it does have a few issues you need to watch out for.
The most common faults include charging errors, software bugs, heating problems, and range display glitches. Most are easy to fix if caught early. With proper use and regular servicing, the ë-SpaceTourer can be a dependable electric family van or workhorse.
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