P279C Citroen C3 Picasso Diagnostic Trouble Code

P279C Citroen C3 Picasso code definition:
P279C is a kind of OBD-II Diagnostic P-Powertrain Diagnostic Trouble Code for Citroen C3 Picasso.

P279C Citroen C3 Picasso is defined as Knock Sensor Circuit Range Performance (Bank 1 or Single Sensor). This refers to camshaft timing, which in this case is over-retarded. The PCM then uses this data to provide the right strategies for the fuel delivery and ignition timing of the engine.

Symptoms

Symptoms of a P279C Citroen C3 Picasso diagnostic trouble code may include:

Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) illuminated
Carbon Buildup on O2 Sensor
Poor fuel economy
The light may stay on or light intermittently as the DPF regenerates. The engine will be sluggish on acceleration.

Possible Causes :

Low fuel pressure caused by a clogged filter, failing fuel pump, failed fuel pressure regulator or clogged or leaking injectors.
Low fuel pressure caused by a clogged filter, failing fuel pump, failed fuel pressure regulator or clogged or leaking injectors.
A large vacuum leak would cause a massive amount of un-metered air to enter the intake manifold resulting in an overly lean mixture.

Common Misdiagnoses

TP Sensor Learn Not Complete Problem
Low Coolant Circuit Problem
Cruise Control System - Vehicle Accel Too High Problem
TFP Valve Position Switch-Drive Without Drive Ratio Problem
Problem

Repair Processes :

Look for damage to the tank indicating impact that may have damaged the fuel pump or sender. Look at the plug wires to make sure they are not burnt or laying on the exhaust. Check to make sure they are not burnt or corroded. If in doubt, get some Electrical Contact cleaner at any parts store if cleaning of the terminals is needed.

Process Tips

Diagnostic trouble code P279C Citroen C3 Picasso is not difficult to diagnose and repair. Thus, it always pays to have a qualified technician to look after your vehicle should this error code arise.

Diagnosing this code requires the engine to be in good running shape, without unmetered air entering the engine. If other codes that relates to misfiring condition, lean running or air entering the engine is present, then you must first fix those error codes before P279C Citroen C3 Picasso.

Fortunately, P279C Citroen C3 Picasso is a fairly common OBD code, meaning that it applies to all makes and models of vehicles made after 1996.