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Autopapyrus · Citroën C5 (2nd generation)
https://autopapyrus.com/guides/citroen/c5/accelerator-pedal-replacement/
Compiled automatically from service literature and owner experience. Specs are for the typical configuration — check them against your exact car before you start.

Citroën C5 (2nd generation): Accelerator Pedal Replacement

The accelerator pedal on the 2nd generation C5 is electronic (drive-by-wire). It contains two position sensors and a kickdown switch (which triggers a downshift when the pedal is pressed hard). A common problem is code P1645 (kickdown switch failure) or P2133 (position sensor), caused by oxidized contacts or worn resistive elements. The pedal is replaced from inside the cabin, with no access from underneath required.

Difficulty: Medium Time: 40-60 minutes Steps: 9 Tools: 10-13 mm socket or wrench (for three nuts), Phillips screwdriver (if needed), multimeter (for checking sensor resistance)

Part

  • 🔩 Accelerator pedal assembly with position sensors (OE numbers: 1601.EK or 1601.EH)
There's a full repair manual for this car Every system, wiring diagrams and torque specs — not just this job. Haynes and 3 more. See manuals →

Step by step

9 steps
  1. Turn the ignition off and open the driver's door. Slide the driver's seat all the way back to get access to the pedal assembly.
  2. Locate the accelerator pedal to the right of the brake pedal. The pedal is attached to the bracket with three nuts (10 or 13 mm socket, depending on version) - two upper mounts and one lower mount.
  3. Disconnect the two electrical connectors - one 6-pin connector (pedal position sensors) and one small connector (kickdown switch). The connectors are held by plastic locking tabs - carefully press the lock and pull the connector toward you.
  4. Remove the three nuts securing the pedal to the bracket. Hold the nuts from the back side of the bracket so they don't fall behind the panel.
  5. Remove the pedal from the bracket - pull it toward you and down, freeing the pivot bushing shafts.
  6. Before installing the new pedal, check the sensor resistance with a multimeter: at rest 6.0-6.5 kΩ, with the kickdown switch pressed 300-400 Ω. This rules out a defective part.
  7. Install the new pedal in reverse order - first insert the pivot bushing shafts into the bracket, then start the three nuts by hand and tighten them in a crisscross pattern to 8-12 N·m (6-9 lb-ft). Do not overtighten - the plastic pedal housing can crack.
  8. Plug in both connectors until they click. Turn the ignition on and check that no warnings appear on the instrument cluster (Check Engine icon). Press the pedal several times - the tachometer needle should respond smoothly without jerking.
  9. If the errors remain, read the codes with an OBD-II scanner. The pedal may need to be adapted using diagnostic software (throttle body initialization procedure).

Common mistakes and warnings

  • A common cause of pedal failure on the 2nd generation C5 is oxidation of the kickdown switch contacts and the sensor resistive tracks. In 70% of cases, the problem can be fixed by cleaning the contacts without replacing the pedal (disassemble the switch, clean the contact group with alcohol, apply dielectric grease). If the errors return after replacement, check the wiring between the pedal and the engine control unit (open circuit or short circuit in the harness).