Vehicle Segment:
Executive/Luxury Sedan
Brand Positioning:
Citroen's flagship model, renowned for its avant-garde design and advanced hydropneumatic suspension technology.
Key Competitors:
During its production run, the CX competed with vehicles like the Peugeot 604, Renault 25, Mercedes-Benz W123/W124, BMW 5 Series (E28/E34), and Audi 100.
Design Philosophy:
Aerodynamic 'Coke bottle' styling, avant-garde interior design, and unique hydropneumatic suspension system offering exceptional ride comfort.
Manual Purpose:
To provide comprehensive repair, maintenance, and diagnostic information for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts, enabling full restoration and upkeep of the Citroen CX 1990.
Model Year Coverage:
1990
Variant Coverage:
All variants of the 1990 Citroen CX, including sedan, estate (Break), and possibly GTI versions, depending on specific engine options detailed within.
Estimated Page Count:
Likely several hundred pages, given the depth of coverage described. Actual count not provided, but typical full service manuals for this era are extensive.
Manual Type:
Full Service Repair Manual
Delivery Method:
Instant Download
Engine Service:
Comprehensive engine overhaul, troubleshooting, timing, fuel system, cooling system, lubrication, and emission control systems.
Transmission Service:
Detailed procedures for manual and automatic transmissions, including overhaul, adjustment, and troubleshooting.
Suspension And Steering:
Focus on Citroen's signature hydropneumatic suspension system, including servicing of spheres, accumulators, pumps, and ride height adjustments. Also covers conventional steering components.
Brake System:
Service and repair of front and rear brakes, including hydraulic systems, brake fluid, and potential ABS components if applicable to the 1990 model.
Electrical System:
Extensive coverage of the electrical system, including wiring diagrams, lighting, ignition, starting, charging systems, instrumentation, and ancillary electrical components.
Bodywork And Chassis:
Information on body panel repair, interior trim, doors, windows, and chassis structural components.
Heating Ventilation And Air Conditioning:
Service and troubleshooting for HVAC systems.
Diagnostic Procedures:
In-depth diagnostic routines and troubleshooting guides for identifying and resolving mechanical and electrical faults.
Rebuilding Procedures:
Detailed instructions for rebuilding major components such as engines, transmissions, and suspension assemblies.
Maintenance Schedules:
Recommended service intervals for routine maintenance tasks.
Refurbishment Procedures:
Guidance for restoring various vehicle systems and components.
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive, suitable for professional technicians and experienced DIY mechanics. Covers everything from routine maintenance to complete overhauls and diagnostics.
Print Quality:
Full Printable. High-resolution PDF designed for clear printing of text and illustrations.
Searchability:
Likely searchable text within the PDF, facilitating quick information retrieval.
Binding Type:
Digital (PDF)
Physical Format Options:
Can be burned to CD-ROM or printed for a physical copy.
Paper Type Implication:
N/A (digital format), but print quality is intended to be high for user experience.
Operating System Compatibility:
All versions of Windows and Mac OS.
Required Software:
Adobe PDF Reader and WinRAR (for potential archive extraction if bundled).
Engine Type:
Likely Inline-4 or V6 gasoline engines. The 1990 model year typically offered variations of the PRV V6 engine (e.g., 2.8L) and 2.0L/2.2L Douvrin inline-four engines. Diesel options were also available.
Engine Code Examples:
Examples include Douvrin XM/XL (2.0L, 2.2L) and PRV V6 (ES9 series) in various displacements.
Horsepower Range:
Varies by engine, typically from 105 hp for smaller inline-fours to 160-200 hp for V6 variants.
Torque Range:
Varies by engine, typically from 160 Nm to 250+ Nm.
Fuel Delivery:
Carburetor (e.g., Solex, Weber) or Bosch L-Jetronic/K-Jetronic fuel injection, depending on engine and market. Turbocharged models (CX Turbo) also existed.
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (petrol) or Diesel.
Standard Transmission:
Likely a 5-speed manual transmission was standard on lower trims.
Optional Transmission:
A 3-speed or 4-speed ZF automatic transmission was typically an option on higher trims and V6 models.
Hydropneumatic Integration:
The transmission's operation, especially in automatic models, is often integrated with the vehicle's hydropneumatic system for smooth engagement.
Wheelbase:
Approximately 2,930 mm (115.4 in) for sedan models.
Length:
Approximately 4,640 mm (182.7 in) for sedan models.
Width:
Approximately 1,770 mm (69.7 in).
Height:
Approximately 1,370 mm (53.9 in) for sedan models.
Curb Weight Range:
Typically around 1,300 - 1,500 kg (2,866 - 3,307 lbs) depending on engine and equipment.
Crash Test Data:
Specific official crash test ratings (e.g., NHTSA, Euro NCAP) for the 1990 CX are less commonly documented than modern vehicles. Design focused on crumple zones and structural integrity of the era.
Braking System Type:
Hydraulic, typically with front discs and rear drums or discs depending on the variant. Some models may have featured ABS.
Headlights:
Aerodynamic flush-fitting headlights, with swivel function on some models linked to steering.
Seat Belts:
Front and rear seat belts. Inertia reel seatbelts were common.
Body Structure:
Designed with a rigid safety cage and controlled crumple zones for occupant protection.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 5,000-7,500 km (3,000-5,000 miles) or annually, depending on usage and oil quality. Consult manual for exact recommendation.
Timing Belt Replacement:
For timing belt driven engines (e.g., Douvrin), typically every 60,000-80,000 km (37,000-50,000 miles). PRV V6 engines use a timing chain or belt depending on specific version; check manual.
Hydropneumatic Fluid Change:
Regular inspection and fluid change (LHM - Liquide Hydraulique Minéral) is crucial, typically every 2-3 years or as specified to maintain system performance and prevent contamination.
Engine Oil Specification:
Viscosity grade typically 10W-40 or 15W-50, depending on climate and specific engine. API service classification SH or higher for modern equivalents. Refer to manual for precise specs.
Hydropneumatic Fluid:
Citroen LHM (Liquide Hydraulique Minéral) - Green coloured hydraulic fluid. **Never use mineral oil or brake fluid.**
Coolant Specification:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze with corrosion inhibitors. Typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Check manual for Citroen-specific recommendations.
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 3 or DOT 4, depending on system components. Refer to manual for precise type.
Hydropneumatic System Wear:
Leaking spheres, worn seals, accumulator failure, and pump issues are common wear items that require periodic maintenance or replacement.
Electrical Gremlins:
Due to age and complexity, older Citroens can suffer from intermittent electrical faults, corroded connectors, and failing relays.
Engine Reliability:
PRV V6 engines can be robust but require diligent maintenance. Douvrin inline-fours are generally reliable but may have specific wear patterns.
Body Corrosion:
Like many cars of this era, rust can be an issue, particularly in sills, wheel arches, and suspension mounting points.
Citroen Innovation:
Citroen has a long history of automotive innovation, particularly with its advanced suspension systems and aerodynamic designs, pioneered by models like the DS and SM, which the CX succeeded.
Facelifts And Updates:
The 1990 model represents the Series 2 CX, which received updates including a revised dashboard, improved aerodynamics, updated engines, and often a modified hydropneumatic system for better reliability.
Production Years:
1974-1992
Manufacturing Locations:
France (Rennes-sur-Vitre).
