Target Audience:
Professional Technicians and DIY Mechanics
Unique Selling Proposition:
The manual offers an unparalleled depth of information for a distinctive and technically interesting vehicle, catering to enthusiasts and those seeking to maintain or restore their BX.
Value Proposition:
Comprehensive repair and maintenance information, cost-saving alternative to professional servicing, instant access
Instruction Format:
Numbered steps, bold figure numbers, detailed illustrations and photos
Information Highlight:
Notes, cautions, and warnings for critical information
Organization:
Numbered table of contents for quick navigation
Engine Systems:
Engine overhaul, tuning, fuel injection, ignition, cooling, lubrication, exhaust
Transmission Systems:
Manual and automatic transmission repair, clutch, driveline
Suspension Steering:
Hydropneumatic suspension (Citroen's signature system), steering system, power steering
Brake Systems:
Front and rear brakes, hydraulic system, parking brake
Electrical Systems:
Wiring diagrams, troubleshooting, starter, alternator, lighting, instrumentation, ECUs
Bodywork Chassis:
Body panel repair, interior trim, glass, structural components
Maintenance Procedures:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, tune-ups, fluid checks
Repair Procedures:
Component disassembly, repair, reassembly, replacement for all major systems
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting guides, fault finding for electrical and mechanical issues
Rebuilding Refurbishment:
Comprehensive guidance for complete overhauls and restoration projects
Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed and integrated with electrical service procedures.
Service Schedules:
Comprehensive maintenance schedules provided.
Body Repair Techniques:
Guidance on panel straightening, welding, and rust repair specific to the BX's construction.
Depth Of Information:
Professional Technician Level, suitable for DIY mechanics
Diagnostic Tools Required:
Implied use of standard automotive diagnostic tools and specialized Citroen tools
Engine Displacement Variants:
Likely covers 1.6L, 1.9L, and potentially 2.0L variants (common for BX models of this era). Specific variants (e.g., XU series) would be detailed in the manual.
Horsepower Range:
Estimated 70-110 hp depending on engine variant and fuel system (carbureted vs. injection).
Torque Range:
Varies by engine, generally 120-170 Nm.
Fuel Delivery:
Carburetor (e.g., Solex, Weber) and/or Bosch L-Jetronic fuel injection depending on specific model and market.
Ignition Type:
Electronic ignition (distributor-based or distributorless for later models).
Engine Code Examples:
XU series (e.g., XU5, XU7, XU9) petrol engines are likely covered. Diesel variants (e.g., XD2, XUD) may also be included depending on manual scope.
Braking System:
Hydraulic disc brakes front and rear, with potential for ABS on higher trims or later models.
Parking Brake Type:
Handbrake acting on rear wheels.
Restraint Systems:
Seatbelts, potential for driver's airbag on later or optional models (less common for 1989 models).
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000-10,000 km or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used (details in manual).
Timing Belt Replacement:
Crucial maintenance item, typically every 60,000-80,000 km or 4-5 years (refer to manual for specific engine and interval).
Engine Oil Specification:
Likely API SF or SG grade, viscosity such as 10W-40 or 15W-50 depending on climate (specifics in manual).
Hydropneumatic Fluid:
Citroen LHS 2 (or LHS) fluid is essential for the suspension and brake system. Manual will specify correct type and replacement procedures.
Coolant Specification:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze with corrosion inhibitors, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Hydropneumatic System:
Leaking spheres, worn hydraulics, height corrector issues (common areas for service).
Electrical Gremlins:
Older wiring can degrade, leading to intermittent issues. Corrosion in connectors is also a possibility.
Rust:
Like many cars of this era, rust can be an issue, particularly in wheel arches, sills, and tailgate areas.
Suspension Height Corrector:
Wear and tear on the corrector can lead to uneven ride height or loss of self-leveling.
Hydropneumatic Spheres:
These gas-filled spheres can lose pressure over time, affecting ride comfort and handling.
Citroen Design Philosophy:
Known for innovative and often unconventional engineering, particularly in suspension and aerodynamics.
Bx Generation Context:
Part of Citroen's lineup from 1982 to 1994, successor to the GS and predecessor to the Xantia. The 1989 model represents a mid-cycle update (Series 2).
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily France, with some production in other countries.
