Positioning:
The Citroën CX Series 1 was positioned as a premium, technologically advanced large executive car, renowned for its unique styling, innovative hydropneumatic suspension, and superior ride comfort.
Unique Selling Proposition:
The CX's unique selling proposition was its unparalleled ride comfort and handling, achieved through the advanced hydropneumatic system and aerodynamic design, setting it apart from more conventional competitors.
Competitors:
Competed with other European executive cars of its era, such as the Mercedes-Benz W123, BMW E12 5 Series, and to some extent, larger sedans from Peugeot and Renault. Its unique technological approach set it apart.
Defining Characteristics:
The CX's defining characteristics include its aerodynamic 'fastback' styling, 'DIRAVI' speed-sensitive power steering, front-wheel drive, monocoque chassis, and the highly sophisticated hydropneumatic suspension offering unparalleled ride quality and self-leveling capabilities.
Aerodynamics:
Extremely low drag coefficient for its time, contributing to fuel efficiency and high-speed stability.
Vehicle Coverage:
All Series 1 CX models from 1975 onwards, including all variants and engine options available during that period.
Repair Scope:
Comprehensive A-Z coverage for all repairs and maintenance procedures.
Estimated Pages:
Likely 500+ pages (typical for comprehensive workshop manuals of this era).
Type:
Workshop Service and Repair Manual
Language:
English (typically, though original may be French; common practice for translations).
Original Language:
French (often, with English translations being the most sought-after).
Format:
Likely printed manual, or a high-quality digital reproduction (e.g., PDF).
Digital Searchability:
If PDF, typically OCR processed for full text search capability, allowing quick access to specific topics.
Engine:
Detailed coverage of gasoline (e.g., 2.0, 2.4, 2.5) and diesel engine variants, including diagnostics, overhaul, timing, lubrication, cooling, fuel delivery, and emissions control.
Transmission:
Complete procedures for manual and automatic transmissions (e.g., Citroën DS/SM derived gearbox, ZF automatics), including clutch, gear selection, hydraulics, and overhaul.
Hydropneumatic Suspension:
In-depth coverage of Citroën's signature hydropneumatic suspension system, including sphere replacement, pump operation, fluid management, pressure regulation, ride height adjustment, and troubleshooting.
Brakes:
Detailed information on the disc brake systems (front and rear), parking brake, hydraulic circuits, fluid specifications, bleeding procedures, and component overhaul.
Electrical System:
Comprehensive wiring diagrams, component testing, ignition system, charging system (alternator, battery), lighting, instrumentation, power windows, central locking, and diagnostics.
Steering:
Hydraulic power steering system, steering rack, linkages, fluid maintenance, and troubleshooting.
Bodywork And Chassis:
Panel removal/installation, door mechanisms, glass replacement, interior trim, corrosion protection, and chassis structural information.
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system operation, servicing, and component repair.
Body Sealing:
Details on door seals, window seals, and sunroof seals to maintain cabin integrity and prevent water ingress.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-ups, spark plug replacement, belt adjustments, and general inspection procedures.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, and fault finding procedures for all major systems.
Engine Repair:
Engine assembly and disassembly, cylinder head work, piston/ring replacement, crankshaft and bearing service, and camshaft timing.
Transmission Overhaul:
Complete rebuild procedures for both manual and automatic gearboxes, including torque converter servicing.
Suspension And Steering Repair:
Replacement of suspension components, steering rack repair, and hydraulic system servicing.
Brake System Service:
Brake pad/disc replacement, caliper overhaul, brake line repair, and hydraulic system bleeding.
Electrical Diagnostics And Repair:
Tracing electrical faults, component testing using multimeters, starter motor and alternator testing, and wiring harness repair.
Body And Interior Restoration:
Guidance on removing and refitting body panels, door mechanisms, and interior trim components.
Suspension Calibration:
Precise instructions for setting and adjusting ride height, and calibrating the hydraulic suspension system after component replacement.
Engine Tuning:
Detailed guidance on carburetor adjustment, ignition timing setting, and valve clearance checks/adjustments where applicable.
Interior Trim Removal:
Step-by-step guides for removing dashboard panels, door cards, and headliners for access to components or repairs.
Depth:
Deep and comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including specific torque values, clearances, and diagnostic data.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Includes detailed diagnostic flowcharts for common problems, electrical circuit tracing, and specific pressure readings for the hydropneumatic and braking systems.
Component Tolerances:
Specific factory tolerances for engine, transmission, and suspension components are provided for accurate rebuilding and assembly.
Wiring Diagram Detail:
Highly detailed wiring schematics, colour-coded where possible, for accurate electrical diagnosis and repair.
Engine Family:
Simca-derived inline-4 cylinder engines (e.g., XM series) and the Douvrin V6 (e.g., CX Prestige), also a Peugeot-derived diesel option.
Engine Displacement Range:
1.8L (various versions), 2.0L, 2.4L, 2.5L (petrol) and 2.1L (diesel). V6 versions also available (e.g., 2.7L, 3.0L on Prestige).
Power Output Range:
Approximately 75 hp (diesel) to 138 hp (2.5L petrol) for Series 1 models, with the V6 Prestige offering higher output. Torque figures varied accordingly.
Fuel Delivery:
Carburetor (e.g., Weber, Solex) or Kugelfischer mechanical fuel injection on higher-performance models and some later variants. Diesel engines use direct injection.
Layout:
Front-mounted, transverse or longitudinal depending on engine, driving front wheels.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000 km or 6 months, but this manual will provide precise manufacturer recommendations.
Hydropneumatic Fluid Change:
LHM fluid replacement and system flush recommended at intervals specified in the manual (e.g., every 2-3 years or 40,000-60,000 km).
Timing Belt Or Chain:
Timing belt replacement intervals for petrol engines typically 60,000-80,000 km or 4-5 years. Diesel engines may use chains or belts with different intervals.
Engine Oil Type:
API SE/SF or equivalent, viscosity typically 10W-40 or 20W-50 depending on climate, as per manual specification. Diesel engines may require specific oils.
Hydropneumatic Fluid:
Citroën LHS 2 (LHM - Liquide Hydraulique Minéral) is the correct fluid for Series 1 CX.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4, as specified for the brake and clutch circuits.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol based antifreeze/coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Transmission Fluid Type Auto:
Dexron II or equivalent for automatic transmissions, as specified by the manufacturer.
Transmission Fluid Type Manual:
GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil, viscosity dependent on climate (e.g., 75W-90, 80W-90).
Common Wear Items:
Hydropneumatic system spheres, LHM leaks (especially rear self-leveler), wear on suspension arms and linkages, DIRAVI steering rack wear, electrical switchgear reliability (especially older models), and potential corrosion.
Engine Specific Points:
Carburetor adjustments, ignition timing, and potential oil leaks on older engines.
Hydropneumatic System Maintenance:
Regular checks of fluid levels and pressure are critical. Leaks from seals and hoses are common and require prompt attention to prevent system damage.
