🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Citroën

Model:

AX

Generation:

First Generation

Production Years Covered:

1987-1997

Chassis Codes:

ZA

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The Citroën AX was positioned as an economical and practical supermini, competing in a segment dominated by European and Japanese manufacturers. It aimed to offer agile handling, fuel efficiency, and distinctive French styling.

Competitive Analysis:

Key competitors included the Peugeot 205, Renault 5/Super 5, Ford Fiesta, Opel/Vauxhall Corsa, and Volkswagen Polo. The AX differentiated itself with its lightweight construction, hydropneumatic suspension (on some models), and avant-garde interior design.

Key Features:

Lightweight construction, compact dimensions, fuel-efficient engines, comfortable ride (especially with hydropneumatic suspension), distinctive exterior styling, and a user-friendly interior.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

All styles and configurations of the Citroën AX produced between 1987 and 1997.

Page Count:

Over 300 pages

Manual Type:

Workshop Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Searchable PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Engine Mechanical, Engine Control System, Cooling System, Fuel System, Ignition System, Exhaust System, Clutch System, Manual Transaxle System, Drive Shaft, Front & Rear Axle, Suspension System (Front & Rear), Steering System, Brake System (Front & Rear), Parking Brake, Electrical System (including Wiring Diagrams), Lighting System, Instrument Panel, Body Repair, Interior Trim, Exterior Body Panels, Wiper and Washer System, Heating and Ventilation System, Air Conditioning (if equipped).

Procedures Included:

Routine maintenance, detailed repair procedures, complete disassembly and reassembly, troubleshooting, electrical diagnostics, component replacement, bodywork repair, fluid changes, brake adjustments, suspension alignment, engine tuning, transmission overhaul.

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to in-depth engine and transmission overhauls, including detailed diagnostic steps and repair instructions for experienced mechanics and DIY enthusiasts.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Print Quality:

Printable, high-resolution pages with clear text and illustrations.

Binding Type:

Digital (Downloadable PDF)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital)

File Size:

322MB

Searchability:

Fully searchable text for quick information retrieval.

Compatibility:

Compatible with Windows, Mac, and Linux operating systems.

Drm Status:

DRM-free, allowing unrestricted printing and access.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Primary Engine:

TU series inline-four gasoline engines. Commonly found engines include the 1.0L (TU9), 1.1L (TU1), 1.3L (TU2), and 1.4L (TU3) variants. Diesel engines like the 1.4L (TUD3) and 1.5L (TUD5) were also available.

Performance:

Performance varied significantly by engine. For example, the 1.1L engine typically produced around 60 hp, while sportier GT and GTI models with the 1.3L or 1.4L engines offered higher output, often exceeding 90-100 hp. Torque figures ranged from approximately 80 Nm to 120 Nm depending on the engine.

Fuel System:

Carburetor (single or twin-choke) or Fuel Injection (Bosch Motronic, Magneti Marelli). The manual will cover the specific fuel system for each engine variant.

Cooling System:

Pressurized liquid cooling system with a thermostat-controlled fan and a radiator. Details on coolant capacity, type, and bleeding procedures will be in the manual.

Lubrication System:

Wet sump lubrication with an oil pump, oil filter, and internal oil passages. The manual will specify oil types, capacities, and recommended change intervals.

🔧 Transmission

Standard:

Manual transmission (4-speed or 5-speed).

Optional:

Optional semi-automatic (Citroën C-Matic or Auto-Classic) on some models.

Features:

Front-wheel drive with a transversely mounted engine and transaxle. The manual covers transmission removal, installation, overhaul, and fluid specifications.

📐 Dimensions

Exterior:

Length: Approx. 3640 mm, Width: Approx. 1620 mm, Height: Approx. 1370 mm (varies slightly by body style).

Interior:

Compact interior designed for 4-5 occupants, with emphasis on maximizing cabin space within its small footprint. Front seating is generally comfortable, rear seating can be snug for adults on longer journeys.

Cargo:

Boot capacity is limited, typical for its class, around 250-270 liters, expandable by folding rear seats.

Weights:

Kerb weight ranges from approximately 750 kg to 900 kg depending on engine and specification.

🛡️ Safety Features

Ratings:

As the AX was produced before more stringent modern safety testing regimes were standard, official Euro NCAP ratings for this specific model are not readily available. However, its lightweight construction and compact size placed it in a category where occupant protection was often less advanced than larger vehicles of the era.

Active Features:

Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes. Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on some higher-specification models. Power-assisted steering available on some variants.

Passive Features:

Seat belts (three-point front, two-point rear or optional three-point rear). Reinforced body structure. Some later models may have offered driver or passenger airbags, though these were not standard across the range. The manual covers the Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) if equipped.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment:

Basic radio and cassette player, usually a 1-DIN unit, often with simple speaker configurations. Higher trims may have options for multiple speakers and antenna power control.

Driver Assistance:

Limited driver assistance features by modern standards. ABS was an option on later or higher-spec models. Power steering was also an option. Cruise control was not a common feature.

Connectivity:

No integrated Bluetooth or smartphone connectivity. Aux-in ports or aftermarket head units might be installed by owners.

🔧 Maintenance

Service Intervals:

Typical intervals for oil changes are around 10,000-15,000 km (6,000-9,000 miles) or 12 months. Spark plug replacement, air filter, and fuel filter changes vary by engine and are detailed in the manual. Timing belt replacement is a critical interval, usually around 60,000-80,000 km (37,000-50,000 miles) for most TU engines.

Fluid Specifications:

Engine Oil: API SG/SH or ACEA A1/A2/A3 specification, viscosity typically 5W-30, 10W-30, or 10W-40 depending on climate (manual will specify exact grades and capacities). Coolant: Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze mixture, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Brake Fluid: DOT 3 or DOT 4. Transmission Fluid: Manual transmission oil (e.g., SAE 75W-80 GL-4). Power steering fluid (if equipped) will have a specific Citroën designation.

Known Issues:

Common issues can include wear in suspension components (ball joints, bushings), premature clutch wear, electrical gremlins (especially aged wiring and connectors), carburettor issues (if applicable), and rust on older models, particularly around wheel arches and sills. Hydropneumatic suspension systems (if fitted) require specific maintenance and fluid checks. Ignition system components (distributor, coil, leads) can also require attention.

Tune Up Procedures:

The manual details procedures for checking and adjusting ignition timing, idle speed, carburettor mixture, checking spark plugs, and replacing air and fuel filters.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Citroën has a long history of innovation in automotive engineering, particularly known for its advanced suspension systems, aerodynamic designs, and practical, often quirky, vehicles. The AX carried forward this tradition of offering distinctive and technically interesting cars.

Model Evolution:

The AX was launched in 1986 as the successor to the Citroën Visa and Axel. It underwent minor facelifts and updates throughout its production run, including revised styling, interior improvements, and the introduction of more powerful engines and special editions like the AX Sport and AX GTI.

Production:

Produced at Citroën plants in France and the UK. It was a popular model in Europe, known for its affordability and efficiency. Production ceased in 1997 with the introduction of the Citroën Saxo.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

While the AX itself may not have garnered specific major awards, it was a significant model for Citroën, praised for its affordability, fuel economy, and innovative design elements, especially the lightweight construction and early adoption of advanced engine technology within its class. It was a common choice for budget-conscious buyers and a popular base for motorsport (rallying).