Model Code:
Series 1 GS (1970-1978), Series 2 GS (1979-1986), GSA (1980-1986)
Body Styles:
2-door saloon, 4-door saloon, 5-door estate (Break/Kombi)
Generation Name:
First Generation
Generations Covered:
Series 1 (1971-1978) and Series 2 (1979-1986) GS, GSA models
Vin Prefix:
Variable by engine and model year, generally starting with 'F' or 'Y'
Market Segment:
Compact family car, known for innovative design and advanced engineering for its era
Key Competitors:
Renault 12, Peugeot 304, Ford Escort Mk1/Mk2, Volkswagen Golf Mk1
Distinguishing Features:
Hydropneumatic suspension, distinctive 'floating' dashboard, aerodynamic styling, transverse engine layout
Manual Value Proposition:
Empowers owners and technicians with detailed, step-by-step procedures for maintenance and repair, reducing reliance on expensive dealer services and enabling cost-effective ownership.
Covered Years:
1971, 1972, 1973, 1974, 1975, 1976, 1977, 1978, 1979, 1980, 1981, 1982, 1983, 1984, 1985
Estimated Page Count:
Over 500 pages (estimated for comprehensive service manuals of this era)
Manual Type:
Service and Repair Manual
Delivery Method:
Instant Download
Software Requirements:
Adobe PDF Reader, WinZip/equivalent decompression software
Printability:
Fully Printable
Zoom Capability:
Zoom IN/OUT supported
Engine Systems:
Engine mechanicals, lubrication, cooling, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, emission control
Transmission Systems:
Manual gearbox, Hydropneumatic suspension (integrated transmission/suspension components), clutch operation
Chassis Systems:
Suspension (hydropneumatic), steering, brakes (disc front, drum rear), wheels and tires
Electrical Systems:
Wiring diagrams, lighting, ignition, charging system, instrumentation, accessories
Body And Interior:
Bodywork repairs, trim, glass, seating, interior panels
Maintenance Procedures:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, tune-ups, lubrication points
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for component disassembly, repair, and reassembly
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common problems, fault finding guides
Technical Data:
Torque specifications, clearances, electrical resistance values, component tolerances
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive, covering routine maintenance to major overhauls and repairs
Diagnostic Level:
Detailed diagnostic trees and common fault identification
File Format:
PDF (Portable Document Format)
Print Quality:
High resolution for clear text and images; suitable for printing individual pages or the entire document
Binding Type:
Digital (PDF), no physical binding
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital Format)
Operating System Compatibility:
All Versions of Windows and macOS
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, flat-four (boxer) engine
Displacement Gs:
1015 cc (GS model), 1220 cc (later GS models)
Displacement Gsa:
1220 cc (GSA model), 1299 cc (GSA Club/Special models)
Horsepower Gs 1015Cc:
56 hp (DIN) @ 6750 rpm
Torque Gs 1015Cc:
72 Nm (53 lb-ft) @ 3000 rpm
Horsepower Gs 1220Cc:
60 hp (DIN) @ 5500 rpm (standard), 72 hp (DIN) @ 6000 rpm (1220cc Pallas/GSA)
Torque Gs 1220Cc:
91 Nm (67 lb-ft) @ 3000 rpm (standard), 101 Nm (74 lb-ft) @ 3000 rpm (1220cc Pallas/GSA)
Horsepower Gsa:
65 hp (DIN) @ 5500 rpm (1220cc), 71 hp (DIN) @ 5750 rpm (1299cc)
Torque Gsa:
97 Nm (72 lb-ft) @ 3000 rpm (1220cc), 107 Nm (79 lb-ft) @ 3000 rpm (1299cc)
Fuel Delivery:
Carburetor (Zenith or Solex twin-choke typically)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Petrol (from 1970s onwards, leaded initially)
Engine Configuration:
Transverse, mid-engine
Transmission Type Standard:
4-speed manual transaxle
Transmission Type Optional:
3-speed semi-automatic (Citroën C-Matic) on some GS models
Transmission Features:
Integrated with suspension hydraulics on some models, compact unit
Length:
Approx. 4120 mm (162.2 in)
Width:
Approx. 1620 mm (63.8 in)
Height:
Approx. 1350 mm (53.1 in)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2600 mm (102.4 in)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 950 - 1050 kg (2094 - 2315 lbs) depending on model and specification
Crash Test Era:
Pre-modern crash testing standards, focused on structural integrity
Braking System:
Hydraulically assisted disc brakes front, drum brakes rear. Unique 'DIRAVI' power steering on later models, and a single brake pedal for all braking functions. Some models had a brake pressure regulator.
Seatbelts:
Front seatbelts standard, rear seatbelts often optional or not fitted initially.
Body Structure:
Monocoque construction with integrated chassis elements. Designed with crumple zones.
Radio System:
Optional factory-fitted or dealer-installed radio, typically AM/FM or LW/MW.
Adaptive Features:
Hydropneumatic suspension provides self-leveling and adjustable ride height, offering a unique 'magic carpet' ride.
Connectivity Features:
Basic; primarily focused on the car's mechanical and electrical systems. No modern connectivity options like Bluetooth or USB.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000 - 7,500 km (3,000 - 4,500 miles) or annually, whichever comes first (refer to manual for specific grade).
Tune Up Interval:
Spark plug replacement, ignition timing adjustment generally every 10,000 - 15,000 km (6,000 - 9,000 miles).
Engine Oil Type:
API SF/SE or CC specification. Viscosity typically 10W-40 or 20W-50 depending on climate. (Manual will specify precise grade and capacity).
Suspension Fluid:
LHM (Liquide Hydraulique Minéral) – Citroën's proprietary hydraulic fluid, typically green. Capacity varies but is critical for suspension operation.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 recommended for the brake system (separate from hydraulic fluid). Capacity typically under 1 liter.
Common Wear Items:
Hydropneumatic suspension spheres/accumulators, front suspension control arms, exhaust system, ignition components, fuel system seals/hoses.
Common Faults:
Hydraulic leaks, engine oil consumption in higher mileage units, electrical gremlins, corrosion on body panels, carburation issues.
Suspension Care:
Regular inspection of hydraulic fluid levels and system integrity is crucial. Sphere replacements may be necessary with age.
Engine Cooling:
Due to air-cooling, ensure radiator fins (if present for auxiliary cooling) and engine bay cooling passages are clear of debris.
Citroen Design Philosophy:
Known for avant-garde design, innovative engineering (hydropneumatic suspension, front-wheel drive, aerodynamic shapes) and comfort.
Gs Introduction:
Introduced in 1970 as a replacement for the Ami 8, aiming to bridge the gap between the Dyane and the DS.
Gsa Introduction:
Launched in 1980 as a facelifted and improved GS, featuring a new dashboard, revised front end, and improved engines.
Production Period:
1970 – 1986
Manufacturing Locations:
France (primarily Rennes-sur-Ille), also assembled in other countries.
Total Production:
Approximately 1.8 million units (GS and GSA combined)
Design Awards:
While not officially cited with major design awards, the GS was praised for its avant-garde styling and aerodynamic efficiency by automotive press.
Comparative Performance:
Consistently rated highly for ride comfort and handling stability by contemporary automotive journalists.
Manufacturing Standards:
Manufactured to Citroën's internal quality and engineering standards of the era.
