🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Citroën

Model:

GS / GSA

Year:

1980

Chassis Code:

Series 1 (Pre-GSA facelift) / Series 2 (GSA facelift)

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The Citroën GS/GSA was positioned as a technologically advanced, comfortable, and aerodynamically efficient family car, competing in the mainstream European market with models like the Volkswagen Golf, Ford Escort, and Opel Kadett. Its unique hydropneumatic suspension and distinctive styling set it apart.

Unique Selling Proposition:

The GS/GSA offered a unique blend of avant-garde French design, exceptional ride comfort, and innovative engineering, making it a distinctive choice in its segment.

Competitive Analysis:

While competitors offered more conventional engineering, the GS/GSA provided superior ride comfort and handling thanks to its hydropneumatic system. Its aerodynamic design contributed to good fuel efficiency for its era. However, initial complexity and perceived reliability issues for some buyers were challenges.

Handling Characteristics:

Renowned for its supple ride and stable handling, particularly on uneven surfaces, due to the hydropneumatic system's ability to absorb road imperfections.

Key Features:

Hydropneumatic suspension (self-leveling, adjustable ride height), distinctive aerodynamic 'breadvan' styling, front-wheel drive, flat-four boxer engines, spacious interior, excellent visibility.

Aerodynamics:

Designed by Robert Opron, the GS featured a low drag coefficient for its time, contributing to its fuel efficiency and distinctive profile.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

General Maintenance, Troubleshooting, Engine Service/Repair, Transmission Service/Repair, Brake System, Wiring Diagram, Electrical System, Suspension, Periodic Lubrication, Steering, Cooling System, Fuel Injection/Fuel System, Emission System, Engine Control System, Chassis/Body, Restraint System, Axle, and more.

Page Count:

Not specified, but implies comprehensive coverage.

Manual Type:

Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Engine mechanicals (including cylinder head, block, pistons, crankshaft, camshaft, timing), Fuel system (carburetor or fuel injection depending on variant), Ignition system, Cooling system, Lubrication system, Exhaust system, Transmission (manual and automatic options), Clutch, Drivetrain (front-wheel drive, driveshafts), Suspension (hydropneumatic front and rear), Steering system, Braking system (front discs, rear drums, parking brake), Electrical system (12V system, battery, alternator, starter, lighting, ignition, instrumentation), Body and chassis, Interior trim, HVAC (where applicable), Safety systems (seat belts).

Specific Engine Details:

Detailed procedures for engine disassembly, inspection of critical components like crankshaft, connecting rods, pistons, rings, cylinder heads, valve seats, guides, and timing gears/chains. Includes torque specifications and assembly clearances.

Transmission Overhaul:

Comprehensive instructions for removing, disassembling, inspecting, and rebuilding both manual and semi-automatic transmissions, including clutch assembly, synchronizers, gears, shafts, and seals.

Hydropneumatic Suspension Maintenance:

Critical details on checking and adjusting hydraulic fluid levels, inspecting spheres, replacing seals and hoses, understanding the system's pressure regulation, and troubleshooting common issues like sinking ride height or stiff suspension.

Chassis And Body Repair:

Guidance on body panel alignment, rust repair techniques for common areas, door, hood, and trunk latch adjustments, and interior trim panel removal/installation.

Steering System Details:

Information on the rack and pinion steering system, power steering pump (if equipped), steering column, tie rods, and steering rack maintenance and adjustment.

Engine Management System:

For fuel-injected models, coverage includes the electronic control unit (ECU), fuel injectors, fuel pump, sensors (e.g., MAP, temperature, throttle position), and troubleshooting of the EFI system.

Procedures Included:

Disassembly, Reassembly, Repair, Servicing, Maintenance, Refurbishment, Renovation, Troubleshooting, Diagnostics, Component replacement (e.g., engine rebuild, transmission overhaul, brake pad replacement, suspension component renewal), Electrical diagnostics, Lubrication schedules, Fluid checks and changes, Wheel alignment, Tire servicing, Bodywork repair fundamentals, Wiring harness inspection and repair.

Diagnostic Procedures:

Systematic troubleshooting guides for common faults across all major vehicle systems, including electrical tracing with wiring diagrams, fuel system diagnostics, ignition timing adjustments, and mechanical fault finding.

Electrical System Repair:

Detailed electrical wiring diagrams for all circuits, component location charts, testing procedures for sensors, actuators, lighting circuits, ignition, and charging systems.

Wheel Alignment Specifications:

Camber, caster, and toe-in angles for front and rear wheels, crucial for proper handling and tire wear, especially with the unique suspension geometry.

Brake System Overhaul:

Detailed steps for front disc brake pad replacement, caliper inspection and servicing, rear drum brake shoe replacement, cylinder servicing, and brake bleeding procedures.

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive, suitable for independent technicians and skilled DIY enthusiasts. Covers from routine maintenance to in-depth component overhaul and complex diagnostics.

Torque Specifications:

Includes specific torque values for critical fasteners throughout the engine, transmission, chassis, and suspension components, essential for proper reassembly.

Diagnostic Troubleshooting Charts:

Flowcharts and tables to help diagnose symptoms by guiding the user through a series of checks and tests to identify the root cause of a problem.

Rebuild Manuals:

Detailed instructions for complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including specifications for honing cylinder walls, grinding valves, and checking bearing clearances.

Wiring Diagram Detail:

Includes color-coded wiring diagrams that clearly identify wire functions, connectors, and component locations, essential for electrical troubleshooting.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Software Requirements:

Adobe Acrobat Reader, WinZip (for potential compressed archives).

Searchability:

Searchable text within the PDF allows users to quickly find specific topics or keywords.

Print Quality:

Digital, searchable text for easy navigation and information retrieval. Quality is dependent on the original source documents.

Compatibility:

Compatible with all versions of Windows and Mac operating systems.

Readability:

Designed for clarity, with diagrams and text intended to be easily readable on screen or when printed.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Primary Engine:

1.3-liter (1299 cc) air-cooled flat-four boxer engine (for GS and early GSA models).

Engine Layout:

Air-cooled, flat-four (horizontally opposed), overhead valve (OHV) configuration.

Engine Cooling:

Air-cooled, with a fan driven by the crankshaft providing airflow to the cylinders and heads.

Performance:

Approximately 60-65 PS (44-48 kW) depending on the specific engine variant and emissions controls for the 1980 model year.

Bore X Stroke:

Approx. 80.5 mm x 64 mm for the 1299cc engine.

Fuel System:

Typically a single downdraft carburetor (e.g., Solex 34 PICS). Later GSA models introduced fuel injection (Bosch L-Jetronic) in some markets for improved performance and emissions.

Carburetor Details:

Likely a Solex 34 PICS or similar for carburetor models, specifying float bowl settings, jet sizes, and mixture adjustments.

🔧 Transmission

Standard:

4-speed manual transaxle.

Gear Ratios:

Specific gear ratios for 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th gear, and final drive would be detailed in the manual.

Optional:

3-speed semi-automatic ('D.A.F.' style torque converter automatic) was available on some GS models, less common on the GSA.

Features:

Front-wheel drive, integrated clutch and transmission unit with the engine as a single powertrain module.

📐 Dimensions

Exterior:

Length: approx. 4,120 mm (162.2 in), Width: approx. 1,600 mm (63.0 in), Height: approx. 1,340 mm (52.8 in) (excluding suspension adjustment).

Interior:

Known for its spacious and airy cabin, with good legroom and headroom for its class, particularly for a front-wheel-drive car of its era.

Cargo:

Generous hatchback cargo area, particularly with the rear seats folded down, offering a practical estate car-like utility.

Weights:

Curb weight typically around 970 kg (2,138 lbs) for the 1.3L models.

Weight Distribution:

The front-wheel-drive layout with the engine mounted transversely in front of the gearbox influences weight distribution, typically favoring the front.

🛡️ Safety Features

Ratings:

No formal crash test ratings available in the modern sense for this era and region. Safety features were typical for European cars of the 1970s/early 1980s.

Active Features:

Disc brakes front, drum brakes rear. Independent suspension contributed to good roadholding. Power-assisted brakes were common.

Passive Features:

Three-point seat belts in the front (lap belts often in the rear), padded dashboard and steering wheel, crumple zones designed into the chassis.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment:

Basic AM/FM radio and cassette player were typical optional or standard features, depending on trim level. Instrumentation included a speedometer, fuel gauge, temperature gauge, and warning lights, often with a unique rotating drum speedometer.

Driver Assistance:

None in the modern sense. Power steering was available on some variants, and the hydropneumatic suspension inherently assisted ride comfort and stability.

🔧 Maintenance

Service Intervals:

1. Oil Change: Typically every 5,000-7,500 km (3,000-4,500 miles) or annually. 2. Air Filter: Check every oil change, replace as needed (e.g., 15,000-20,000 km). 3. Spark Plugs: Replace every 20,000-30,000 km. 4. Coolant: Flush and replace every 2 years. 5. Brake Fluid: Replace every 2 years. 6. Hydropneumatic Fluid: Regular inspection and topping up as per manual, with occasional system checks and refills.

Timing Belt Chain Service:

The GS/GSA uses a timing chain, which is generally a lifetime component but requires inspection for stretch and tensioner condition during major engine work.

Valve Adjustment Interval:

Valve clearance adjustment is typically required periodically, often every 10,000-15,000 km, due to the OHV design and air-cooling.

Fluid Specifications:

Engine Oil: SAE 15W-40 or 20W-50 (air-cooled engine). Hydropneumatic Fluid: Citroën LDS or equivalent high-quality hydraulic fluid (specific type is crucial). Brake Fluid: DOT 3 or DOT 4.

Coolant Type:

Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.

Transmission Fluid Type:

Manual transmission uses gear oil, typically SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 GL-4. Automatic/semi-automatic transmissions require specific ATF (Automatic Transmission Fluid).

Known Issues:

Hydropneumatic system leaks (hoses, seals), alternator bearing noise, carburetor issues (wear, adjustment), rust (particularly around wheel arches, sills, and rear hatch), ignition system components, exhaust manifold cracking, early water-cooled Boxer engines could be prone to overheating if cooling system maintenance lapsed. GSA models with fuel injection can have sensor or pump issues.

Electrical Gremlins:

Common for older French cars, including issues with grounding points, fuse box connections, and aging wiring insulation, which the manual helps diagnose.

Hydropneumatic Sphere Replacement:

The hydropneumatic suspension utilizes gas-filled spheres which can degrade over time, requiring replacement to maintain ride quality and system integrity. The manual details this procedure.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Citroën has a long history of innovation in automotive engineering, particularly with suspension systems (like the 2CV and DS) and front-wheel-drive layouts.

Citroen Innovation:

Citroën's legacy includes pioneering front-wheel drive, hydropneumatic suspension, and aerodynamic designs, all of which are embodied in the GS/GSA.

Model Evolution:

The GS was introduced in 1970 and received a significant facelift in 1980, becoming the GSA. Key GSA updates included the new front-end styling (from the CX), improved interior ergonomics, and the availability of fuel injection on some models.

Gsa Specific Updates:

The GSA introduced a revised dashboard with integrated controls and better ergonomics, often featuring a steering wheel with a 'planetary' central hub.

Production:

The GS/GSA was produced from 1970 to 1986. The 1980 model year represents the transition from the GS to the GSA facelift.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

The Citroën GS was voted European Car of the Year in 1971, primarily for its innovative design and engineering, particularly its hydropneumatic suspension.