🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Citroën

Model:

GS / GSA

Year:

1981

Vehicle Platform:

Citroën GS platform

👋 Introduction

Target Audience:

Citroën GS/GSA owners, DIY mechanics, automotive repair shops, enthusiasts

Value Proposition:

Provides professional-level repair and maintenance information, saving significant costs compared to dealership service.

Manual Quality:

Professional Quality, Highly Detailed, Complete and Intact

Benefits:

Empowers users to perform repairs, save money, and maintain their vehicle effectively.

📋 Manual Details

Regions Covered:

Global (All Models/Engines/Trim/Transmissions Types)

Estimated Page Count:

Hundreds (specific number not provided, but described as complete and extensive)

Type:

Workshop Repair Service Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Engine Service / Repair (including Fuel Injection / Fuel System, Emission System, Engine Control System)

Transmission:

Transmission Service / Repair

Brakes:

Brake System

Electrical:

Electrical System (including Wiring Diagrams, Engine Control System)

Suspension:

Suspension

Steering:

Steering

Cooling:

Cooling System

Chassis Body:

Chassis / Body

Interior:

Interior

Drive Axle:

Differential / Drive, Axle

Climate Control:

Heater/ Air Conditioning

Restraint Systems:

Restraint System

Maintenance:

General Maintenance, Periodic Lubrication

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting

Repair:

All major repair procedures for covered systems

Diagnostics Electrical:

Troubleshooting and electrical service procedures combined with detailed wiring diagrams

Depth:

Professional Technician Level (same manual used in local service/repair shops)

Information Type:

Diagnostic, repair, and maintenance information

Detail Level:

Detailed substeps, notes, cautions, warnings, numbered instructions, figure numbers for illustration matching, enlarged insets for part examination.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Printability:

Full Printable

Zoom Capability:

YES (Zoom IN/OUT)

Binding:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Delivery Method:

Instant Download

Software Requirements:

Adobe PDF Reader & WinZip

Operating Systems:

All Versions of Windows & Mac

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Horizontally opposed (boxer) four-cylinder, air-cooled (common for GS/GSA)

Engine Displacement Options:

Various displacements, typically around 1.2L (1220cc) and 1.3L (1299cc) for GS, with potential for larger displacements in GSA variants.

Horsepower Range:

Approximately 56-70 hp (depending on engine variant and specific model year/tuning)

Torque Range:

Approximately 90-105 Nm (depending on engine variant)

Fuel Delivery:

Carburetor (e.g., Solex) for most models, potentially Bosch L-Jetronic fuel injection in some later GSA variants or specific markets.

Cooling Method:

Air-cooled

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

4-speed manual (standard)

Transmission Type Optional:

5-speed manual (available on some models), 3-speed Hydrautomatique (automatic transmission, less common)

Drive Layout:

Front-wheel drive (FWD)

📐 Dimensions

Body Styles:

2-door sedan, 4-door sedan, estate (Break), coupe (GS Berline)

Curb Weight Range:

Approximately 950-1050 kg (depending on body style and equipment)

🛡️ Safety Features

Braking System Front:

Self-ventilated discs (a notable feature for its time)

Braking System Rear:

Drums

Seat Belts:

Front seat belts (standard on later models, optional/retractable on earlier ones)

💡 Technology Features

Radio Options:

Optional factory or dealer-fitted radio, typically AM/FM or LW/MW.

Advanced Features:

The primary technological innovation was the hydropneumatic suspension system, providing exceptional ride comfort and handling. Early models featured a directional headlight system.

Connectivity Features:

None in the modern sense. Connectivity would be limited to basic wiring for lights, ignition, and instrumentation.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 5,000-7,500 km (or annually), depending on usage and oil type.

Tune Up Interval:

Recommended at 15,000-20,000 km for spark plugs, ignition timing, and carburetor adjustment.

Engine Oil Type:

Typically SAE 20W-50 or 10W-40 (air-cooled engines can be sensitive to oil quality and viscosity).

Coolant Type:

N/A (Air-cooled engine)

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4

Hydropneumatic Fluid:

LHM (Citroën's mineral-based hydraulic fluid)

Common Faults:

Hydropneumatic system leaks (especially spheres and seals), rust (particularly sills, wheel arches, and suspension mounts), ignition system issues (coil, distributor), carburetor wear, and electrical gremlins are common in older vehicles.

Suspension Wear:

The characteristic self-levelling suspension requires specific maintenance and replacement of hydraulic fluid and spheres periodically.

Body Corrosion:

As with many cars of this era, rust prevention and treatment are crucial for longevity.

📚 Vehicle History

Manufacturer Origins:

Citroën, a French automotive manufacturer known for innovative and often avant-garde designs.

Gs Introduction:

The Citroën GS was introduced in 1970, replacing the Ami 8 and offering a more modern and aerodynamic design. It was praised for its innovative hydropneumatic suspension.

Gsa Introduction:

The GSA was a facelifted and improved version of the GS, launched in 1980. It featured updated styling (especially the front end with plastic bumpers and new grille), improved interior ergonomics, and minor mechanical revisions.

Production Years:

GS: 1970-1980; GSA: 1980-1986

Production Locations:

Primarily France (Rennes-sur-Vilaine plant)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

European Car Of The Year:

The Citroën GS was voted European Car of the Year in 1971.