Market Standing:
The Citroen CX was positioned as a premium, technologically advanced executive car, often competing with luxury sedans from German and British manufacturers.
Key Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz W123, BMW 5 Series (E28), Rover SD1, Peugeot 604.
Unique Selling Points:
Iconic avant-garde styling, revolutionary hydropneumatic suspension system offering unparalleled ride comfort and self-leveling capabilities, front-wheel drive, distinctive 'idiramic' curved windshield, and a spacious, futuristic interior.
Diy Advantage:
Empowers owners to perform repairs and maintenance themselves, ensuring quality workmanship, saving money on labor costs, and gaining in-depth knowledge of their vehicle's unique systems.
Manual Benefit Convenience
Download Convenience:
Instant download availability allows for quick access to repair information, enabling anytime, anywhere servicing without the need to search physical bookstores.
Engine Service Repair:
Detailed procedures for engine disassembly, assembly, diagnostics, and repair.
Transmission Service Repair:
Covers all aspects of manual and automatic transmission servicing, repair, and adjustment.
Brake System:
In-depth coverage of hydraulic systems, caliper/drum service, fluid replacement, and bleeding procedures.
Wiring Diagram:
Includes comprehensive electrical schematics for all vehicle systems.
Electrical System:
Detailed diagnosis and repair of all electrical components, lighting, accessories, and control modules.
Suspension:
Detailed information on the unique hydropneumatic suspension system, including component replacement and fluid service.
Steering:
Covers steering rack, column, and power steering system diagnosis and repair.
Cooling System:
Maintenance, repair, and diagnosis of the cooling system, including radiator, thermostat, and hoses.
Fuel Injection Fuel System:
Covers fuel pump, injectors, fuel lines, and engine management for fuel delivery.
Emission System:
Information on emission control components and diagnosis.
Engine Control System:
Details on the engine control unit (ECU) and its associated sensors and actuators.
Chassis Body:
Body repair, structural information, and chassis component servicing.
Restraint System:
Information on seatbelts and related safety features.
Axle:
Front and rear axle servicing and repair.
General Maintenance:
Routine checks, fluid top-offs, filter replacements, and preventative care.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic guides for identifying and resolving common vehicle problems.
Periodic Lubrication:
Specific lubrication points and recommended lubricant types.
Disassembly Reassembly:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal and installation.
Repair:
Detailed repair procedures for all major vehicle systems.
Servicing:
Guidance on performing regular maintenance and servicing tasks.
Maintenance:
Comprehensive maintenance routines and schedules.
Refurbishing Renovating:
Procedures for restoring worn or damaged components and systems.
Mending Fixing:
Practical guidance for rectifying various vehicle faults.
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive, suitable for both novice DIYers and experienced technicians.
Engine Type:
Inline-4 Cylinder, Front-Wheel Drive
Engine Displacement:
Typically 1995cc (2.0L) for standard models, with 2175cc (2.2L) and 2375cc (2.4L) DG & DS engines (including fuel injection) available in higher trims or later iterations of Series 1.
Horsepower Range:
Approx. 90-110 hp for 2.0L, up to 126 hp for 2.4L fuel-injected variants.
Torque Range:
Varies by engine, with larger engines offering more torque for comfortable cruising.
Fuel Delivery:
Carburetor (e.g., Weber, Solex) for most 1984 models, with Bosch L-Jetronic fuel injection available on higher-spec models (e.g., CX 2400 GTI).
Ignition System:
Typically electronic ignition with distributor.
Length:
Approx. 4640 mm (182.7 in)
Width:
Approx. 1770 mm (69.7 in)
Height:
Approx. 1370 mm (53.9 in)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2900 mm (114.2 in)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1300-1400 kg (2866-3086 lbs) depending on engine and equipment.
Crash Test Ratings:
No standardized global crash test ratings like modern NCAP existed for 1984 models, but design principles focused on crumple zones and cabin integrity.
Active Safety:
Powerful disc brakes on all wheels, independent suspension, front-wheel drive for improved traction.
Passive Safety:
Reinforced passenger cell, padded dashboard, seat belts (front typically standard, rear optional).
Audio System:
Factory-fitted radio and cassette player, often with basic speaker configurations.
Steering System:
DIRAVI (Direction à rappel asservi) system - a speed-sensitive power steering with a strong self-centering effect that stiffens at higher speeds.
Connectivity Features:
Limited by era; primarily mechanical and electrical systems, no modern digital connectivity features.
Other Innovations:
Hydropneumatic suspension with adjustable ride height, advanced aerodynamics for its time, central locking (optional/depending on trim).
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000 - 7,500 km (3,000 - 4,500 miles) or 6-12 months, depending on usage and oil type.
Major Service Interval:
Refer to manual for specific intervals for timing belt (if applicable to engine variant), transmission service, brake fluid flush, and suspension fluid checks.
Engine Oil:
Refer to manual; typically API SG or SF rated, viscosity grades like 10W-40 or 20W-50 depending on climate.
Hydropneumatic Fluid:
LHM (Liquide Hydraulique Minéral) - Citroen's proprietary mineral-based hydraulic fluid. Crucial to use the correct fluid type.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4, depending on the specific hydraulic system specifications.
Transmission Fluid Auto:
Dexron-II or equivalent for automatic transmissions. Manual transmission uses gear oil.
Common Issues:
Hydropneumatic system leaks (e.g., spheres, hoses, seals), electrical gremlins, rust in key structural areas, wear on the characteristic DIRAVI self-centering steering system, aging rubber components.
Maintenance Importance:
Proactive maintenance of the hydropneumatic system is paramount to ensuring ride quality and longevity, and preventing costly repairs.
Citroen Innovation:
Citroen has a long history of pioneering automotive technology, exemplified by the Traction Avant, 2CV, and DS, which heavily influenced the CX's design and engineering.
Cx Development:
The CX was launched in 1974 as the successor to the iconic DS. The 1984 model falls within the Series 1 production run, prior to the significant 1986 facelift (Series 2).
Production Years:
1974-1991 (for the CX model range).
Manufacturing Location:
Mainly France (e.g., Rennes-La Janais, Aulnay-sous-Bois).
Automotive Awards:
While specific awards for the 1984 model year are not prominently documented, the CX itself was lauded for its innovation and comfort upon its debut. It was voted 'European Car of the Year' in 1975.
Reliability Perception:
Perceived as complex due to its unique systems, requiring dedicated knowledge for reliable operation, but mechanically robust when properly maintained.
Engineering Acclaim:
Recognized for its groundbreaking engineering, particularly its suspension system, which set new benchmarks for ride comfort and handling.