Target Audience:
Professional technicians and do-it-yourself mechanics with basic mechanical and electrical knowledge.
Purpose:
To provide detailed guidance for maintaining and repairing the Citroen AX 1997.
Content Similarity:
Comparable to factory service manuals and owner's manuals, offering extensive repair and maintenance data.
Learning Method:
Step-by-step instructions designed to educate users on factory-trained technician procedures.
Accessibility:
Instant download enables immediate access to repair information.
Engine Mechanical:
Complete overhaul, assembly, disassembly, tuning, cooling system, lubrication system, fuel system components.
Engine Electrical:
Ignition system, starting system, charging system, engine control unit (ECU) diagnostics, wiring diagrams.
Transmission:
Manual and automatic transmission overhaul, clutch system, gear shift mechanisms, driveline components.
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, disc and drum brake service, ABS (if equipped), parking brake.
Suspension Steering:
Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, steering rack, power steering system (if equipped).
Electrical Body:
Lighting systems, interior and exterior lighting, power windows, central locking, wiper systems, horn, fuse box layout and function.
Bodywork:
Body panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, interior trim, glass replacement, rust repair guidance.
Heating Ventilation Air Conditioning:
HVAC system components, blower motor, heater core, A/C system (if equipped), refrigerant handling (general guidelines).
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, lubrication points.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts, symptom analysis, common problem identification and solutions.
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for all major vehicle systems.
Disassembly Assembly:
Detailed instructions for dismantling and reassembling components.
Cleaning:
Guidance on cleaning components during service.
Reinstalling:
Proper procedures for reassembly and installation.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering factory-level procedures and specifications suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY mechanics.
Engine Type:
Inline 4-cylinder, naturally aspirated petrol.
Common Engine Variants:
Various displacements including 1.0L (TU9), 1.1L (TU1), 1.3L (TU24, Rallye), and 1.4L (TU3) petrol engines. Diesel variants (XUD7) also existed.
Horsepower Range:
Approx. 45-100 hp depending on engine variant.
Torque Range:
Approx. 70-120 Nm depending on engine variant.
Fuel Delivery:
Carburetor (early models) or Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI) depending on engine and market. Petrol.
Engine Oil:
Refer to specific engine variant and owner's manual for exact API/ACEA specifications and viscosity grade (e.g., 10W-40 or 5W-40). Capacity typically around 3.5-4.0 liters.
Coolant:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze/coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Capacity around 5-6 liters.
Transmission Type:
5-speed manual transmission.
Transmission Type:
Some models offered a 3-speed automatic transmission.
Gear Ratios:
Specific gear ratios vary by engine and transmission type. Manuals detail these for optimal performance and fuel economy calculations.
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4 gear oil, typically SAE 75W-80 or 75W-90. Capacity around 2.0-2.5 liters.
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Specific ATF (Automatic Transmission Fluid) type (e.g., Dexron II/III equivalent). Capacity varies.
Euro Ncap Rating:
Not applicable for this model year, as Euro NCAP testing protocols were nascent in 1997 and the AX predates comprehensive scoring.
Braking System:
Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes. ABS available on higher trims or optional.
Seatbelts:
Standard front seatbelts, rear seatbelts (lap belts or three-point belts depending on rear seat configuration).
Airbags:
Driver's airbag was an option on some models, passenger airbag was rare or unavailable.
Audio System:
Basic factory radio cassette player, often with aftermarket upgrades common. Speaker placement typically in doors and rear parcel shelf.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System was an optional feature on certain trim levels and engine variants.
Connectivity Features:
Limited by 1997 standards. Primarily focused on basic vehicle functions and optional convenience features like central locking.
Oil Change:
Typically every 7,500 - 10,000 miles (12,000 - 15,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first, depending on driving conditions and oil specification.
Air Filter Replacement:
Recommended every 15,000 - 20,000 miles (24,000 - 32,000 km) or as needed based on conditions.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Intervals vary by spark plug type (copper, platinum, iridium), typically between 20,000 - 50,000 miles (32,000 - 80,000 km).
Timing Belt Replacement:
Critical interval, often 60,000 - 80,000 miles (96,000 - 128,000 km) or 5-6 years for TU engines. Failure can cause severe engine damage.
Electrical Corrosion:
Common in older vehicles, especially earth points and connectors, leading to intermittent faults.
Suspension Wear:
Wear in suspension bushes, ball joints, and shock absorbers can lead to knocking noises and imprecise handling.
Cooling System:
Potential for radiator leaks, thermostat issues, and corrosion in the cooling system if not maintained.
Rusting:
Areas prone to rust include wheel arches, sills, and the boot floor, especially in regions with harsh winters.
Gearbox Synchromesh:
On manual transmissions, synchromesh wear can lead to difficulty engaging certain gears, particularly 2nd and 3rd.
Citroen Philosophy:
Citroen's heritage is marked by innovation, aerodynamic design, and often unconventional engineering solutions, aiming for comfort and efficiency.
Ax Introduction:
The Citroen AX was launched in 1986 as a successor to the Citroen Visa and Talbot Samba, targeting the supermini segment.
Facelifts Updates:
The 1997 model represents a later iteration of the AX, likely incorporating minor updates from previous facelifts and enhancements.
Production Period:
1986–1998
Key Variants:
Available in 3-door and 5-door hatchback body styles. Sporty GT and GTi variants were notable.
