🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Citroen

Model:

Xsara

Year:

1998

Generation:

First Generation (X1)

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The Citroen Xsara was positioned as a compact family car, competing with models like the Ford Focus, Volkswagen Golf, and Renault Mégane in the European market. It offered a blend of comfort and practicality, with distinctive Citroen styling.

Competitive Analysis:

The 1998 Xsara was the second year of the first generation (X1) and was a significant competitor in its segment, known for its comfortable ride and innovative Hydractive suspension on some higher-end models. This workshop manual provides the necessary technical data to maintain and repair it, directly competing with other OEM and aftermarket repair manuals.

Key Features:

Comprehensive coverage for all 1998 Xsara variants, detailed diagrams and illustrations, manufacturer-level accuracy, digital format for ease of use and cost savings on repairs.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage:

All Models/Engines/Trim/Transmissions Types for the 1998 Citroen Xsara

Page Count:

Hundreds of pages (as stated in product description)

Manual Type:

Workshop Repair Service Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

General Maintenance, Troubleshooting, Engine Service/Repair, Transmission Service/Repair, Brake System, Wiring Diagram, Electrical System, Suspension, Periodic Lubrication, Steering, Cooling System, Fuel Injection/Fuel System, Emission System, Heater/Air Conditioning, Engine Control System, Chassis/Body, Restraint System, Interior, Differential/Drive, Axle

Engine Control System Coverage:

Detailed coverage of engine control units (ECUs), sensor testing and replacement (e.g., MAP, coolant temperature, oxygen sensors), ignition system diagnostics, and fuel delivery system checks.

Chassis Body Coverage:

Includes detailed information on chassis components, body panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, hinges, locks, and basic body repair procedures.

Restraint System Coverage:

Information on airbag system diagnostics, seatbelt operation and replacement, and SRS (Supplemental Restraint System) component testing.

Steering System Coverage:

Detailed procedures for power steering pump, rack, and column inspection and repair, including fluid checks and bleeding procedures.

Cooling System Coverage:

Radiator, fan, thermostat, water pump, heater core, and coolant circuit diagnostics and replacement, including pressure testing and flushing procedures.

Fuel Injection Fuel System Coverage:

Fuel pump operation, fuel filter replacement, injector testing and cleaning, fuel pressure regulator checks, and EVAP system diagnostics.

Heater Air Conditioning Coverage:

HVAC system component testing, refrigerant handling (where applicable, though R134a was common by this era), blower motor, heater control panel, and recirculation flap diagnostics.

Differential Drive Coverage:

Information on front-wheel drive systems, including transaxle, driveshafts, CV joints, and wheel bearings.

Axle Coverage:

Details on front and rear axle components, including hub assemblies and potentially rear beam axle inspections for the torsion bar models.

Procedures Included:

Diagnostic, Repair, Maintenance, Troubleshooting, Disassembly, Assembly, Cleaning, Reinstalling Procedures, Wiring Diagram interpretation, Engine Control System diagnostics

Troubleshooting Procedures:

Systematic troubleshooting guides for common drivability issues, electrical faults, and mechanical problems, often presented in a flowchart format.

Repair Procedures:

Step-by-step repair instructions with torque specifications for critical fasteners, special tool requirements, and assembly/disassembly sequences for major components.

Interior Procedures:

Removal and installation of interior trim panels, seats, dashboard components, and sound system troubleshooting.

Technical Depth:

Professional level, suitable for local service/repair shops, detailed information for specific vehicle repair

Electrical System Depth:

Extensive wiring diagrams are included, allowing for diagnosis of complex electrical circuits, including lighting, power windows, central locking, and dashboard instrument cluster issues.

Specific Tool References:

The manual would reference specific Citroen special tools required for certain procedures, ensuring accurate and factory-approved repairs.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Zoom Functionality:

YES (inherent to PDF format)

Print Quality:

Full Printable

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Printability:

Fully printable, allowing users to print specific sections for use during repairs.

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Delivery Method:

Instant Download

Software Requirements:

Adobe PDF Reader & WinZip

Operating System Compatibility:

All Versions of Windows & Mac

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Primary Engine Options 1998:

Likely included the 1.4L (TU3) and 1.6L (TU5) petrol engines, and potentially the 1.9L naturally aspirated diesel (XUD9) and indirect injection turbodiesel (XUD7TE/DT).

Performance 1.6L Tu5 Approx:

Around 88-90 PS (65-66 kW; 87-89 hp) at approximately 5700-6000 rpm and torque around 137-140 Nm (101-103 lb-ft) at 3200-3400 rpm. Specific figures vary by engine variant and tuning.

Fuel System Petrol:

Multi-point fuel injection (MPI).

Fuel System Diesel:

Direct injection (DI) or Indirect injection (IDI) depending on the specific diesel engine variant.

Common Engine Codes Petrol:

TU3, TU5, EW7 (later models, but possible).

Common Engine Codes Diesel:

XUD7TE, XUD9, XUD9TE.

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

5-speed manual transmission (e.g., MA or ML series).

Optional Transmission:

4-speed automatic transmission (e.g., AL4 series).

Transmission Features:

The manual transmission is generally robust. The automatic transmission offered increased comfort but could be prone to specific issues if not maintained, especially the AL4 with its electronic control unit.

📐 Dimensions

Exterior Dimensions Approx Hatchback:

Length: ~4180 mm, Width: ~1700 mm, Height: ~1420 mm. (These are approximate and can vary slightly by body style, e.g., hatchback, estate/break).

Exterior Dimensions Approx Estate:

Length: ~4400 mm, Width: ~1700 mm, Height: ~1470 mm. (Estate/Break variant).

Interior Features:

Spacious cabin for its class, known for comfortable seating and innovative interior design elements typical of Citroen.

Curb Weight Approx:

Approximately 1150-1250 kg, depending on engine and equipment. (Specific GVW and towing capacities would be detailed in the manual).

🛡️ Safety Features

Safety Ratings Euro Ncap:

The Xsara achieved a 3-star Euro NCAP rating in 2000 for adult occupant protection. Side impact protection was an area for improvement.

Active Safety Features:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was often optional or standard on higher trims. Power steering was standard.

Passive Safety Features:

Front airbags were standard. Seatbelt pre-tensioners were also typically fitted. Some models may have featured side airbags.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment 1998:

Basic infotainment systems, typically comprising an AM/FM radio with cassette player. CD players became more common as options or on higher trims. Manual details operation and troubleshooting for these systems.

Driver Assistance 1998:

Limited compared to modern vehicles. Features like ABS were often optional. Parking sensors were not standard and very rare. The manual would detail how these systems function and are maintained.

Connectivity 1998:

No integrated Bluetooth or USB connectivity. Older analogue systems might exist for optional phone integration.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval Petrol:

Typically every 15,000 km (approx. 9,300 miles) or 12 months, whichever comes first, using synthetic or semi-synthetic oil. Diesel intervals might be similar or slightly shorter. (Specific intervals in manual).

Timing Belt Replacement Petrol:

Approximately every 80,000 - 120,000 km (50,000 - 75,000 miles), depending on engine and type of belt. Crucial to follow manual recommendations to avoid engine damage.

Brake Fluid Replacement:

Typically every 2 years regardless of mileage, as brake fluid absorbs moisture.

Engine Oil Specification Petrol:

Likely API SJ or ACEA A3/B3, viscosity grades such as 10W-40 or 5W-40. (Manual will specify exact grade and capacity).

Coolant Specification:

Ethylene glycol-based coolant, typically a pink or blue OAT (Organic Acid Technology) or HOAT (Hybrid OAT) type, meeting PSA (Peugeot Citroën) specifications. (Manual will specify exact type and capacity).

Brake Fluid Specification:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid. (Manual will specify the exact type and replacement interval).

Transmission Fluid Manual:

API GL-4 or GL-5, SAE 75W-80 or 75W-90 gear oil (manual will specify exact type and capacity).

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

Specific ATF (Automatic Transmission Fluid) as per PSA specification (e.g., LT71141 or equivalent), manual will detail type and capacity.

Common Issues:

Potential issues can include electrical gremlins, worn suspension components (especially bushes and ball joints), aging rubber hoses, and issues with the automatic transmission selector cable or ECU if applicable. Early models might have experienced clutch slave cylinder failures. Water ingress into the ECU housing has also been reported on some variants.

Common Issues Suspension:

Wear on front lower suspension arms, bushes, and anti-roll bar links leading to knocking noises and poor handling. Hydractive suspension fluid changes and accumulator checks are crucial if equipped.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Citroen has a long history of innovation in automotive engineering, particularly in suspension systems (like hydropneumatic) and comfort. The Xsara built upon this heritage, aiming to provide a unique driving experience.

Model Evolution:

The Xsara replaced the Citroen ZX and was produced from 1997 to 2006. The 1998 model is part of the initial X1 generation. It was later facelifted into the X2 generation in 2000, featuring revised styling and updated features. The Xsara Picasso MPV variant was also launched during this generation's lifespan.

Body Styles:

Available as 3-door hatchback, 5-door hatchback, and 5-door estate (Break). A convertible variant was also produced but less common.

Production Locations:

Primarily manufactured in France and Spain.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

While specific awards for the 1998 model might be scarce, the Xsara generation generally received positive reviews for its comfort and handling, especially those equipped with the Hydractive suspension, which was a unique selling proposition in its class.