Positioning:
The Citroën BX represented a unique offering in the compact executive segment, known for its advanced technology, comfortable ride, and distinctive styling.
Competitors:
Competed against vehicles like the Volkswagen Golf, Ford Escort, Opel Kadett, and Peugeot 305, but differentiated itself with its hydropneumatic suspension and hatchback practicality.
Design:
Marcello Gandini design, aerodynamically efficient body.
Suspension:
Hydropneumatic self-leveling suspension providing exceptional ride comfort and handling.
Innovation:
Incorporated advanced engineering for its time, including extensive use of plastics for weight reduction.
Value:
Provides professional-level repair and maintenance information, empowering owners and independent mechanics to service the BX effectively.
Engine:
Complete overhaul, diagnosis, and repair of engine components and systems.
Transmission:
Service, repair, and overhaul of manual and automatic transmissions.
Suspension:
Detailed coverage of Citroën's innovative hydropneumatic suspension system, including adjustments, repairs, and troubleshooting.
Brakes:
Comprehensive brake system diagnosis, repair, and maintenance, including hydraulic and caliper components.
Electrical:
In-depth electrical system schematics, troubleshooting, and repair procedures for all circuits and components.
Bodywork:
Repair procedures for body panels, doors, hinges, latches, and interior trim.
Cooling System:
Maintenance and repair of radiator, thermostat, hoses, and fan assembly.
Fuel System:
Diagnosis and repair of fuel injection or carburetion systems, fuel pump, and lines.
Exhaust System:
Repair and replacement procedures for exhaust manifolds, pipes, catalytic converter (if applicable), and mufflers.
Steering:
Service and repair of steering rack, linkages, and power steering system.
HVAC:
Diagnosis and repair of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems.
Lighting:
Troubleshooting and repair of headlights, taillights, interior lighting, and related circuits.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, and general upkeep.
Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnostic procedures for identifying and resolving common and complex issues.
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for virtually all mechanical and electrical components.
Rebuild:
Detailed procedures for rebuilding major components like engines, transmissions, and suspension spheres.
Refurbishment:
Guidance on restoring and refurbishing various parts of the vehicle.
Diagnostics:
Comprehensive diagnostic information, including how to interpret symptoms and utilize diagnostic tools.
Depth:
Professional Technician Level (covers all aspects from basic maintenance to complete overhaul)
Detail Level:
Detailed sub-steps, notes, cautions, and warnings throughout each chapter.
Illustration Quality:
Detailed illustrations, drawings, and photos, with enlarged insets for detailed examination.
Wiring Diagrams:
Combined with electrical service procedures for ease of use.
Engine Code Typical:
XU series (e.g., XU5, XU9)
Engine Configuration:
Inline-4 cylinder, transverse mounting
Displacement Typical:
1.6L (1580 cc) and 1.9L (1905 cc)
Horsepower Typical:
Approx. 80-105 hp (depending on engine variant)
Torque Typical:
Approx. 130-170 Nm (depending on engine variant)
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch L-Jetronic fuel injection or Weber/Solex carburetors
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline
Ignition System:
Electronic ignition (breakerless)
Crash Test History:
Limited official crash test data for this era, but known for its structural integrity due to chassis design.
ABS:
Optional on some later models, not standard on 1982 debut.
Seatbelts:
Standard front seatbelts, optional rear seatbelts.
Body Structure:
Reinforced passenger cell, crumple zones.
Oil Change:
Typically every 10,000-15,000 km or annually, whichever comes first.
Filter Replacement:
Oil filter with every oil change; air and fuel filters typically every 20,000-30,000 km.
Suspension Maintenance:
Regular checks of hydraulic fluid levels and sphere pressure recommended, with professional servicing advised for significant adjustments.
Engine Oil:
Refer to manual for specific grade, typically API SF or SG, viscosity like 10W-40 or 15W-50.
Hydraulic Fluid:
Citroën LHM Plus (or equivalent spec DOT 4 compatible fluid for earlier systems).
Coolant:
Mixture of antifreeze and distilled water (50/50).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (check manual for exact specification).
Suspension Leaks:
Hydropneumatic system can develop leaks from hoses, seals, or spheres, requiring specialized knowledge to repair.
Electrical Gremlins:
Older wiring can degrade, leading to intermittent electrical faults.
Rust Corrosion:
Common in older European cars, especially on sills, wheel arches, and underbody.
Hydropneumatic Pump:
The hydraulic pump can wear over time, affecting suspension operation.
Citroen Legacy:
Citroën's long history of automotive innovation and distinctive engineering, particularly with hydropneumatic suspension.
Bx Introduction:
Launched in September 1982 at the Paris Motor Show as a successor to the Citroën GS/GSA.
Design Influence:
Design was a collaboration between Citroën's design studio and Marcello Gandini of Bertone.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primary production in Rennes-La Janais, France, and also in Vigo, Spain, and Mangualde, Portugal.
Production Span:
1982-1994
