Positioning:
The Citroën CX Series 2 was positioned as a flagship executive saloon, known for its advanced technology, comfort, and distinctive avant-garde styling. It competed with other premium European sedans of its era.
Competitors:
Key competitors included the Renault 25, Peugeot 604, BMW 5 Series, Mercedes-Benz W123/W124, and Audi 100.
Distinctive Features:
Hydropneumatic suspension system offering unparalleled ride comfort, front-wheel drive, unique aerodynamic styling, powerful engine options, and a spacious interior.
Engine Systems:
Engine mechanical, cooling system, lubrication system, fuel system (carburetor/injection depending on variant), ignition system, emissions control
Transmission Systems:
Manual transmission, automatic transmission (likely ZF 3HP22 or similar), clutch, driveline components
Brakes System:
Front disc brakes (inboard on some variants), rear disc brakes, hydraulic system, parking brake, LHM (Citroën's hydropneumatic fluid) brake circuits
Suspension Steering:
Hydropneumatic suspension system (front and rear spheres, hydraulic pump, accumulators, distribution valves), steering rack, power steering system, wheel alignment
Electrical Systems:
12V electrical system, battery, alternator, starter motor, lighting system, ignition system, instrumentation, wiring diagrams, fuses, relays, electronic control units (if applicable)
Body Chassis:
Body shell construction, panel replacement, door mechanisms, glass replacement, interior trim, chassis components, corrosion protection
Heating Ventilation Ac:
Climate control systems, air conditioning (if fitted).
Lighting And Signals:
Headlights, taillights, turn signals, hazard lights, interior lighting, wiring for all components.
Maintenance Procedures:
Routine checks, oil changes, filter replacements, coolant flushes, brake fluid replacement, suspension sphere re-pressurization/replacement
Repair Procedures:
Engine component overhaul, transmission rebuilding, brake caliper service, suspension system repair, electrical component diagnostics and replacement, body panel repair
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, common fault identification and rectification
Technical Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearances, timing settings, fluid capacities, electrical resistance values
Body Repair Procedures:
Dent removal, panel replacement, rust repair, door hinge adjustment, bumper alignment.
Refrigerant Handling:
Procedures for handling and servicing the air conditioning refrigerant system, including charging and leak detection (if applicable to the specific manual's scope).
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive. Covers everything from routine maintenance to major component overhauls and detailed electrical diagnostics, as provided to official dealer workshops.
Diagnostics:
Detailed diagnostic procedures for all major systems, including electrical faults, hydraulic system issues, and engine performance problems. Includes component testing and specifications.
Engine Variants:
2.0L (M20/XM2), 2.2L (ZDJ/XZJ), 2.5L (YZJ/YD25 - naturally aspirated and turbocharged variants, including the GTi and Turbo-D)
Horsepower Range:
Approx. 90 hp (2.0L) to 168 hp (2.5 Turbo 2)
Torque Range:
Approx. 153 Nm (2.0L) to 310 Nm (2.5 Turbo 2)
Fuel Delivery:
Carburetor (e.g., Weber, Solex) for lower-spec engines, Bosch L-Jetronic or similar fuel injection for higher-performance variants, diesel injection for diesel models.
Engine Types:
Petrol (various displacements), Diesel (2.5L)
Audio System:
Typically a basic AM/FM radio with cassette player, often with optional amplifier and more speakers for higher trims.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was an option on higher-end models, particularly the GTi and Prestige trims.
Cruise Control:
Optional feature on higher-specification models, particularly later Series 2 variants.
Early Tech:
Central locking, power windows (often standard on higher trims), adjustable steering column.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 5,000 - 10,000 km or 6-12 months, depending on usage and oil type.
Suspension Sphere Check:
Regular checks for correct pressure are crucial, often recommended every 20,000 - 30,000 km or as indicated by ride height anomalies.
Engine Oil:
Refer to manual for specific grades (e.g., API SG/SH, SAE 10W-40 or 15W-50 depending on climate/engine).
Hydropneumatic Fluid:
Citroën LHS (LHM - Liquide Hydraulique Minéral) is critical. Never substitute mineral-based hydraulic fluid for DOT 3/4 brake fluid or vice versa.
Coolant:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze mixed with distilled water.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 (for standard brake circuits where not mixed with LHM; LHM is used for suspension, steering, and brakes in a combined system).
Suspension Problems:
Loss of ride height, bouncing, pump whine, leaks from spheres or hoses, control valve issues. LHM contamination can be detrimental.
Electrical Quirks:
Aging wiring looms, corrosion in connectors, issues with dashboard warning lights, and central locking can occur.
Engine Management:
Carburetor tuning for non-injection models, fuel pump issues on older injection systems.
Steering Issues:
Power steering leaks, stiff steering, pump failure, steering rack wear.
Citroen Legacy:
Citroën has a long history of innovation in automotive engineering, particularly with its pioneering hydropneumatic suspension systems that originated with the Traction Avant and DS models.
Cx Development:
The CX was designed to succeed the iconic DS, retaining its hydropneumatic suspension and front-wheel drive while offering a more modern and aerodynamic design. The Series 2 updates (introduced around 1985) included revised styling (bumpers, grille), improved interior, and powertrain updates.
Production Period:
1974-1991 (1988 falls within the Series 2 era)