Target Audience:
Professional technicians, experienced DIY mechanics, and owners with a good understanding of automotive principles.
Manual Comparison:
Offers equivalent or superior detail to many factory service manuals, providing step-by-step guidance and factory-level specifications.
Download Benefit:
Instant availability for immediate repair guidance, offering a significant time advantage over mailed paper manuals.
Content Similarity:
Provides comparable information to traditional factory service manuals and owner's manuals.
Vehicle Covered:
Citroën GS and GSA models
Estimated Page Count:
Varies by specific edition, typically 300-600+ pages for a comprehensive factory-style manual.
Manual Type:
Repair Service Manual / Workshop Manual
Delivery Method:
Instant Download
Software Requirements:
Adobe PDF Reader, WinZip (for decompression)
Operating System Compatibility:
All Versions of Windows & Mac
Powertrain:
Engine, cooling system, fuel system, exhaust system, clutch, gearbox.
Chassis:
Hydropneumatic suspension, steering system, braking system (including front disc and rear drum, and the unique Citroën inline braking system design), wheels, tires.
Electrical:
Ignition system, lighting, instrumentation, starter motor, alternator, wiring diagrams, fuse box layout, dashboard controls.
Bodywork And Interior:
Body panel repairs, door mechanisms, glass, seats, dashboard trim, interior trim panels.
Maintenance:
Scheduled servicing, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid level checks, lubrication points.
Repair:
Engine overhaul, transmission repair, brake caliper rebuild, suspension component replacement, electrical component diagnosis and repair.
Disassembly Assembly:
Detailed steps for removing and refitting various vehicle components and sub-assemblies.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon faults, fault code interpretation (where applicable).
Depth Of Information:
Comprehensive, covering fundamental maintenance to advanced mechanical and electrical repairs. Suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts.
Engine Type:
Air-cooled flat-four (boxer)
Displacement Gs:
1015 cc (for early GS models)
Displacement Gs Later Gsa:
1124 cc, 1218 cc (for later GS and GSA models)
Horsepower Range:
Approximately 50 hp to 65 hp (depending on engine variant and tuning)
Torque Range:
Approximately 75 Nm to 90 Nm (depending on engine variant)
Fuel Delivery:
Carburetor (e.g., Solex 32 DDIT, Zenith 35 NDIX)
Cooling Method:
Forced air cooling via engine-mounted fan.
Ignition Type:
Contact breaker points ignition (in 1978 models), with potential for electronic ignition upgrades in later models or aftermarket.
Body Style:
3-door hatchback / 5-door hatchback
Length:
Approximately 3960 mm - 4050 mm (varies by body style and specific model)
Width:
Approximately 1610 mm
Height:
Approximately 1290 mm - 1320 mm
Curb Weight:
Approximately 980 kg - 1050 kg
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Not explicitly stated, but typically around 1400 kg.
Crash Test Results:
No standardized crash test ratings like modern vehicles (e.g., Euro NCAP, NHTSA) were available for this era. Vehicle structure was innovative for its time but safety standards differed significantly.
Braking System:
Four-wheel disc brakes (front), drum brakes (rear) on many models. Unique Citroën integrated braking system with a single pedal for primary braking.
Seat Belts:
Front seat belts usually standard; rear seat belts optional or standard depending on market and trim.
Body Structure:
Designed with crumple zones, offering a relatively safe structure for its era.
Audio System:
Optional factory-fitted radio and speaker systems, typically AM/FM. Many examples have aftermarket units installed.
Dashboard:
Distinctive dashboard design with an 'orbital' steering wheel (on some models), and a comprehensive instrument cluster with tachometer, speedometer, fuel gauge, temperature gauge (oil), and warning lights.
Advanced Features:
No modern driver assistance systems. The hydropneumatic suspension provided a revolutionary ride quality and self-leveling capability, which was its primary technological innovation.
Connectivity Options:
None by modern standards.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000 - 7,500 km (3,000 - 4,500 miles) or annually, whichever comes first.
Ignition System Maintenance:
Regular adjustment/replacement of ignition points and condenser, checking/setting ignition timing.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 20W-50 or SAE 10W-40 (depending on climate and engine condition). Refer to manual for specific API classification.
Hydropneumatic Fluid:
LHM (Liquide Hydraulique Minéral) - Citroën's specific hydraulic fluid.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid for the clutch system and brake fluid reservoir (if separate from hydropneumatic system). LHM is used for the primary braking system.
Hydropneumatic Suspension:
Leaking spheres, failing pump, suspension height variations, ride quality issues if not properly maintained. Spheres require periodic replacement/recharging.
Engine Cooling:
Overheating due to clogged air cooling fins or fan belt issues. Potential for oil leaks from the air-cooled engine configuration.
Electrical System:
Corrosion of wiring connectors, faulty switches, dashboard warning light issues, alternator output problems.
Rust:
Common issue with vehicles of this age, particularly around wheel arches, sills, and the rear hatch area.
Carburetor:
Tuning difficulties, vacuum leaks, idle speed instability.
Citroen Innovation:
Citroën's legacy of avant-garde engineering, including hydropneumatic suspension and aerodynamic design.
Gs Introduction:
The Citroën GS was introduced in 1970, intended as a mid-size family car to fill the gap between the Ami and the DS.
Gsa Introduction:
The GSA, a facelifted and improved version of the GS, was introduced in 1979, featuring revised styling (particularly the front end), updated interior, and improved aerodynamics.
Production Period:
GS produced from 1970 to 1986; GSA produced from 1979 to 1986.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily France (Rennes-sur-Vitre).
