Vehicle Segment:
Executive Car (E-segment)
Citroen Philosophy:
Represents Citroën's commitment to advanced engineering, aerodynamic design, and unique comfort features
Key Competitors:
BMW 5 Series, Mercedes-Benz W123, Peugeot 604, Renault 20/30
Signature Features:
Hydropneumatic self-leveling suspension, DIRAVI variable power steering, aerodynamic 'greenhouse' design, front-wheel drive
Manual User:
Professional technicians and experienced DIY mechanics
Engine Mechanical:
Detailed repair and overhaul procedures for all engine variants (e.g., 2.0L, 2.2L, 2.5L petrol, Diesel)
Engine Management:
Fuel injection, carburetion, ignition system diagnostics and repair
Transmission Manual:
Overhaul, repair, and adjustment procedures for manual transmissions
Transmission Automatic:
Overhaul, repair, and adjustment procedures for automatic transmissions (if applicable for 1981 models)
Hydropneumatic Suspension:
In-depth coverage of Citroën's signature hydropneumatic suspension system, including spheres, pumps, accumulators, and height correctors
Braking System:
Disc brake system maintenance, repair, bleeding procedures, and ABS troubleshooting (if equipped)
Steering System:
Power steering system repair, hydraulic fluid, and steering rack maintenance
Electrical System:
Complete wiring diagrams, component testing, diagnostics for lighting, ignition, accessories, and control units
Body And Chassis:
Body panel repair, rust prevention, chassis components, and trim restoration
Climate Control:
HVAC system service, refrigerant handling, and component repair
Interior Trim:
Removal, installation, and repair of interior components and upholstery
Preventive Maintenance:
Detailed service schedules, fluid checks and changes, filter replacements, lubrication points
Diagnostic Procedures:
Systematic troubleshooting guides for common and uncommon faults, electrical diagnostics
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly
Rebuild Procedures:
Comprehensive instructions for engine, transmission, and major component rebuilds
Refurbishment Restoration:
Guidance applicable for restoring the vehicle to its original condition
Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed, organized electrical schematics for all vehicle circuits
Depth Of Information:
Professional Technician Level (Covers all diagnostic and repair procedures as used by professionals)
Detail Level:
Detailed sub-steps, critical notes, cautions, and warnings
Illustrations:
High-quality illustrations, drawings, and photos guiding each procedure
Part Identification:
Enlarged inset diagrams for detailed examination of parts
Engine Family:
Douvrin (PSA-Renault joint venture)
Engine 1981 2.0L:
1995cc, 90 hp (net) @ 5200 rpm, 158 Nm @ 3000 rpm (approx. for CX 20)
Engine 1981 2.2L:
2175cc, 112 hp (net) @ 5200 rpm, 179 Nm @ 3000 rpm (approx. for CX 22)
Engine 1981 2.5L:
2498cc, 120 hp (net) @ 5000 rpm, 194 Nm @ 3000 rpm (approx. for CX 25)
Engine 1981 Diesel:
2377cc, 75 hp (net) @ 4000 rpm, 152 Nm @ 2000 rpm (approx. for CX 22 D)
Top Speed:
Varies by engine, e.g., ~170-185 km/h for petrol variants
Acceleration 0 100Kmh:
Varies by engine, e.g., ~10.5-14 seconds
Carburetion Injection:
Single or twin Zenith carburetors (for lower trims), Bosch L-Jetronic fuel injection (for higher trims like CX 25 GTi)
Fuel Requirement:
Unleaded Petrol (Octane rating as specified in manual), Diesel
Standard Transmission Type:
4-speed Manual (for lower trims)
Optional Transmission Type:
3-speed or 4-speed ZF automatic transmission (optional on many models)
Gear Ratios:
Detailed in manual for all variants
Transmission Fluid:
Specific ATF type for automatics, gear oil for manuals (specified in manual)
Crash Test Performance:
Information on crashworthiness, though formal ratings of modern standards were less common in 1981. Manual will detail safety construction.
Steering System Safety:
DIRAVI power steering for improved stability at speed and lighter feel at low speeds
Braking System Features:
Hydraulic brake assistance, front ventilated discs, rear discs
Seat Belts:
Front and rear seat belts
Body Structure:
Integrated safety cage, deformable crumple zones
Radio System:
Optional factory-fitted radio/cassette player (brands like Blaupunkt, Philips were common)
Speaker Configuration:
Typically 2 or 4 speakers, depending on trim level
Steering Assistance:
DIRAVI progressive power steering (variable assistance)
Cruise Control:
Optional on higher-spec models
Connectivity Features:
Limited to factory radio connections; no modern connectivity options
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000 - 7,500 km or 6-12 months, depending on usage (refer to manual for specific intervals)
Suspension Fluid Change:
Regular inspection and topping up of LHM (Citroën's hydraulic fluid) is critical
Timing Belt Chain:
If belt-driven (check specific engine), intervals would be critical, likely around 60,000-80,000 km. Chain-driven engines are generally maintenance-free in this regard.
Engine Oil Type:
API SF/CC or SG/CD, SAE 10W-40 or 15W-50 (check manual for exact viscosity and API rating)
Hydraulic Fluid:
Citroën LHM Plus (Green fluid) is essential for the hydropneumatic system
Coolant:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze mixed with distilled water (50/50 ratio)
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (specified in manual)
Hydropneumatic System:
Leaking spheres, failing hydraulic pump, worn seals, low fluid levels leading to ride height problems
Electrical Gremlins:
Common in older vehicles, often related to wiring degradation, grounding issues, or failing relays
Rust:
Prone to rust in wheel arches, sills, and door bottoms, especially in areas with road salt
Diravi System:
Potential leaks or stiffness in the steering rack and hydraulic lines
Citroen Legacy:
Known for avant-garde design and advanced, often complex, engineering solutions (e.g., 2CV, DS)
Cx Introduction:
Introduced in 1974 as the successor to the iconic Citroën DS
Cx Series 1:
1981 marks the Series 1, which underwent minor revisions before the significant Series 2 facelift in 1986.
Production Period:
1974-1991 (CX model line)
Manufacturing Plants:
France (primarily Rennes-La Janais and Aulnay-sous-Bois)
