Generations
MK1 — First Generation
2008–2019
1.2 HDi, 1.4i, 1.4 HDi, 1.4i, 1.4 HDi
Top issues to watch for
The most serious Citroen Nemo problems ranked by severity. We track 5 known issues — here are the ones you need to know about first.
Major
Power steering fluid leaks and system failure (MK1)
The hydraulic power steering system on Nemo diesel variants suffers from widespread seal failures in the pump and pressure lines. MOT data shows failure rates 93.5 times the fleet average for power steering malfunctions and 37.7 times average for low fluid levels. The system uses high-pressure hydraulic fluid that leaks from deteriorating seals, particularly around the pump housing and high-pressure connections. This is a documented weakness affecting both 1.2 and 1.4 diesel engines across all mileage bands.
What happens if ignoredComplete power steering failure makes the vehicle extremely difficult to steer at low speeds and dangerous in emergency manoeuvres. Pump replacement typically costs £400-800 plus labour. Continued operation with low fluid will destroy the pump and potentially damage the steering rack, increasing repair costs to £800-1500.
Independent garage
£350–£650
Specialist
£400–£750
Main dealer
£500–£950
Parts only
£150–£400
Major
Shock absorber bush wear (MK1)
The rubber bushes supporting the shock absorbers deteriorate rapidly on the Nemo, with MOT data showing failure rates 62.6 times the fleet average. This affects all engine variants and appears across all mileage bands including very low mileage vehicles. The bushes are undersized for the vehicle's commercial use profile and deteriorate due to constant loading and unloading cycles typical of van operation.
What happens if ignoredWorn shock absorber bushes compromise vehicle stability, increase braking distances, and cause premature tyre wear. In severe cases, the shock absorber can separate from its mounting, creating a dangerous loss of suspension control. Bush replacement typically costs £200-400 per corner depending on location.
Independent garage
£150–£300
Specialist
£200–£400
Main dealer
£250–£500
Parts only
£40–£120
Major
Excessive exhaust smoke from DPF issues (MK1)
Diesel variants suffer from severe DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter) blockage issues, with MOT data showing smoke emission failure rates 104.1 times the fleet average on 1.4 diesel and 45.7 times average on 1.2 diesel engines. The DPF system becomes blocked due to short journey patterns typical of commercial use, preventing the high-temperature regeneration cycles needed to burn off accumulated soot particles.
What happens if ignoredA completely blocked DPF will trigger limp mode, severely reducing engine power and making the vehicle unsuitable for commercial use. Professional DPF cleaning costs £200-400, while replacement costs £800-1500. Continued operation with a blocked DPF can damage the turbocharger and engine.
Independent garage
£200–£400
Specialist
£250–£500
Main dealer
£300–£600
Parts only
£400–£1,200
Major
Suspension pin and joint wear (MK1)
The suspension pins, bushes and joints throughout the Nemo's suspension system wear prematurely, with MOT failure rates 38.3 times the fleet average for pin/bush/joint wear and 36.9 times average for general joint wear. This affects both front and rear suspension components and is particularly severe on vehicles used for heavy loading or frequent stop-start commercial patterns.
What happens if ignoredWorn suspension components compromise vehicle stability and safety, particularly under braking or cornering. Severe wear can lead to component failure and loss of control. Individual joint replacement typically costs £80-200 per component, but multiple components often require attention simultaneously.
Independent garage
£80–£200
Specialist
£100–£250
Main dealer
£120–£300
Parts only
£25–£80
1 more known issues tracked
Including wear items, electrical niggles, and generation-specific problems.
MOT failure hotspots
Based on DVSA MOT test data. These are the items where the Citroen Nemo fails at a significantly higher rate than the average car.
Power steering fault
Steering · 0-20k miles
MOT failure rate: 238x the fleet average
Sample: 616 tests
Light unit fault
Lights & Electrics · 0-20k miles
MOT failure rate: 187x the fleet average
Sample: 491 tests
Headlight fault
Lights & Electrics · 0-20k miles
MOT failure rate: 114x the fleet average
Sample: 619 tests
Suspension pin, bush, joint or bearing worn
Suspension · 0-20k miles
MOT failure rate: 92x the fleet average
Sample: 616 tests
Steering rack wear
Steering · 20-40k miles
MOT failure rate: 68x the fleet average
Sample: 2,798 tests
Suspension component fractured or
Suspension · 100-120k miles
MOT failure rate: 52x the fleet average
Sample: 4,673 tests
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Related
Citroen Nemo reliability FAQs
What are the most common problems with the Citroen Nemo?
The Citroen Nemo has 5 known issues across 2 severity levels. The most common problems relate to Power steering fluid leaks and system failure (MK1) and Shock absorber bush wear (MK1).
Is the Citroen Nemo reliable?
The Citroen Nemo has 0 dangerous and 4 major known issues. No dangerous issues are tracked, which is a positive sign.
How much does it cost to fix Citroen Nemo problems?
Repair costs range widely. The most significant issue (Power steering fluid leaks and system failure (MK1)) costs £350–£650 at an independent garage. Minor issues can be under £200. Always get a full inspection before buying.