Segment:
Mid-size family car
Key Competitors:
Peugeot 406, Renault Laguna, Ford Mondeo, Opel Vectra
Suspension System:
Citroen's signature hydropneumatic suspension (Hydractive/Hydractive 3) offering exceptional ride comfort and handling adjustability.
Design:
Distinctive styling by Marcello Gandini, known for its aerodynamic profile and spacious interior.
Primary Coverage:
Service, Repair, Maintenance, Troubleshooting
Engine Coverage:
1.8L 16V Petrol (XU7JP4)
Transmission Coverage:
All Transmission Types (Manual & Automatic)
Trim Level Coverage:
All Trim Levels
Estimated Page Count:
Likely 1000+ pages (typical for full factory service manuals)
Type:
Factory Service Repair Manual / Workshop Manual
Engine:
Engine mechanical, engine management, lubrication, cooling, fuel injection, ignition
Fuel System:
Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel filter, fuel injectors, throttle body, fuel pressure regulator
Cooling Lubrication:
Radiator, water pump, thermostat, coolant hoses, oil pump, oil filter, oil pan, oil cooler
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, ignition system, sensors, ECUs, wiring diagrams
Chassis:
Suspension (Hydropneumatic - Hydractive/Hydractive 3), steering, brakes (including ABS), wheels, tires
Emission Control:
Emissions systems, catalytic converter, exhaust system, EVAP system
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, belt replacements
Repair:
Engine rebuild, transmission overhaul, brake system repair, suspension component replacement, electrical diagnostics and repair
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common faults, symptom-based troubleshooting guides
Diagnostics:
Fault code interpretation, sensor testing, component testing
Depth:
Comprehensive: From basic maintenance to complete engine and component overhauls, including detailed electrical schematics and troubleshooting
Engine Type:
Inline 4-cylinder, DOHC (Double OverHead Camshaft), 16 valves
Displacement:
1.8 Liters (approx. 1761 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
83.0 mm x 81.4 mm (typical for XU7JP4)
Horsepower:
Approximately 112 PS (110 bhp / 82 kW) at 5500 rpm (for XU7JP4)
Torque:
Approximately 155 Nm (114 lb-ft) at 4200 rpm (for XU7JP4)
Fuel Injection:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI), Bosch Motronic system
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Petrol (95 RON recommended)
Emission Standard:
Euro 2 / LEV (depending on market)
Type:
5-speed Manual Transmission
Type:
4-speed Automatic Transmission
Fluid Type Manual:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-80 (e.g., Total Transmission Syn FE 75W-80, Citroen part number 9730.AE)
Fluid Type Automatic:
ATF Dexron II/III equivalent (e.g., Total Fluide ATX, Citroen part number 9736.22)
Length:
Approx. 4610 mm (181.5 in)
Width:
Approx. 1780 mm (70.1 in)
Height:
Approx. 1400 mm (55.1 in) (standard ride height)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1300-1350 kg (2866-2976 lbs) depending on equipment
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approx. 1800-1850 kg
Euro Ncap Crash Test:
Not extensively tested by Euro NCAP in its early form. Later models received some ratings.
ABS:
Standard on most models of this era, typically Bosch ABS system.
Suspension Adjustment:
Self-levelling hydropneumatic suspension aids stability.
Airbags:
Driver airbag standard, passenger airbag optional on some models.
Seatbelts:
Pre-tensioning seatbelts for front occupants.
Audio System:
Factory fitted radio/cassette or CD player, often with steering wheel mounted controls.
Cruise Control:
Optional on higher trim levels.
Central Locking:
Standard on most models, often with remote key fob.
Climate Control:
Optional automatic climate control available on some variants.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 10,000 - 15,000 km or 1 year, whichever comes first.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approx. 60,000 km (for platinum or iridium plugs)
Timing Belt Replacement:
Crucial for the 16V engine. Usually around 80,000-120,000 km or 5-6 years. Consult manual for specific interval and whether interference engine.
Engine Oil Grade:
SAE 5W-40 or 10W-40, API SJ/SL or ACEA A3/B3 (refer to manual for exact specification)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.5 - 5.0 liters with filter change
Coolant Type:
Antifreeze/coolant, typically OAT (Organic Acid Technology) or HOAT, 50/50 mix with distilled water. Specific Citroen coolant recommended.
Hydropneumatic Fluid Type:
LHM (Liquide Hydraulique Minéral) or LDS (Liquide de Direction Servotronic) depending on system version. The Xantia typically uses LHM Plus.
Suspension Sphere Wear:
Hydropneumatic spheres can degrade over time, leading to a harsher ride or hydraulic system issues.
Electrical Gremlins:
Older wiring harnesses and connectors can be prone to corrosion or degradation, leading to intermittent electrical faults.
Rust Corrosion:
Common on older vehicles, particularly in wheel arches, sills, and around suspension mounting points.
Water Pump Leaks:
Water pumps on the XU engines can develop leaks.
Citroen Legacy:
Citroën has a long history of innovation in suspension (e.g., 2CV, DS, SM) and driver comfort.
Predecessor:
Citroen GS/GSA, BX
Production Period:
1993-2001 (first generation)
Manufacturing Location:
France (Rennes-Talcy factory)
