Segment:
Compact family car
Target Audience:
Families, budget-conscious buyers, individuals seeking a reliable and practical European hatchback.
Key Competitors:
Ford Focus, Volkswagen Golf, Opel/Vauxhall Astra, Renault Mégane, Peugeot 307.
Strengths Compared To Competitors:
Often praised for comfortable ride quality (Citroën's hallmark), spacious interior for its class, distinctive styling, and generally good value for money.
Design Philosophy:
Emphasized comfort, practicality, and a touch of French flair. The 2005 model year represents the facelifted version of the second-generation Xsara.
Engine Variant Focus:
The 1.4i (TU3JP) engine provides an economical and reliable powertrain for everyday use.
Systems Covered:
Engine, Fuel System, Ignition System, Cooling System, Exhaust System, Clutch, Gearbox (Manual), Driveshafts, Suspension (Front and Rear), Steering, Braking System, ABS, Bodywork, Interior Trim, Electrical System, Lighting, HVAC, Wiring Diagrams, Troubleshooting
Estimated Pages:
Approx. 1500+
Type:
Service and Repair Manual
Powertrain:
Comprehensive coverage of the TU3JP 1.4L petrol engine, including mechanical components, fuel injection (Bosch Motronic variants), ignition, lubrication, cooling, and exhaust systems.
Drivetrain:
Detailed procedures for clutch, manual transmission (BE4/BE3 family), gearshift linkage, driveshafts, and wheel hub maintenance and repair.
Chassis:
In-depth information on front suspension (MacPherson struts), rear suspension (torsion beam), steering system (hydraulic power steering), and braking system (front discs, rear drums or discs), including ABS components.
Electrical:
Extensive electrical schematics, wiring diagrams for all major systems (lighting, ignition, engine management, infotainment, power windows), component testing, and troubleshooting guidance.
Body And Interior:
Procedures for body panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, interior trim components, seating adjustments, and HVAC system servicing.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil and filter changes, spark plug replacement, air filter replacement, coolant flush and fill, brake fluid replacement, clutch fluid replacement, power steering fluid replacement, drive belt inspection and replacement, tire rotation and pressure checks.
Engine Repair:
Cylinder head removal and overhaul, piston and connecting rod service, crankshaft and bearing inspection, camshaft timing, valve adjustment, engine mounting replacement, oil pump and seals.
Transmission And Drivetrain:
Transmission fluid change, clutch assembly replacement, release bearing replacement, input shaft seal replacement, driveshaft CV joint service, wheel bearing replacement.
Brake System:
Brake pad and disc replacement (front and rear), brake caliper service and replacement, wheel cylinder replacement (rear drums), brake line inspection and replacement, ABS sensor testing and replacement.
Suspension And Steering:
Shock absorber and strut replacement, spring replacement, control arm bush replacement, ball joint replacement, tie rod end replacement, power steering pump and rack diagnosis and replacement.
Electrical System:
Battery testing and replacement, alternator testing and replacement, starter motor testing and replacement, fuse and relay identification and testing, bulb replacement, diagnostic code reading and interpretation, sensor testing (e.g., O2, crank, cam).
Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnostic procedures for common drivability issues, starting problems, electrical faults, braking concerns, and suspension noise. Includes diagnostic flowcharts and symptom-based troubleshooting.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic fluid checks and filter replacements to complete engine overhauls, transmission rebuilds, and complex electrical diagnostics. Suitable for DIY mechanics and professional technicians.
Engine Type:
Inline 4-cylinder, naturally aspirated petrol
Bore X Stroke:
75 mm x 77 mm
Valvetrain:
SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft), 8 valves
Horsepower:
75 PS (74 bhp; 55 kW) at 5300 rpm
Torque:
118 Nm (87 lb-ft) at 3400 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Petrol (95 RON recommended)
Emission Control:
Catalytic Converter, Lambda Sensor
Euro Ncap Rating:
Likely 4 Stars (for equivalent models tested)
ABS:
Standard on most models, optional on base trims
Electronic Stability Control:
Rarely standard on this variant/year, check specific vehicle
Traction Control:
Rarely standard on this variant/year, check specific vehicle
Airbags:
Driver, passenger, side airbags standard or optional depending on trim
Seatbelts:
Pre-tensioning front seatbelts
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 15,000 km or 12 months, whichever comes first (check manual for specific conditions)
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 km or 24 months
Spark Plug Replacement:
NGK BKR5EK (or equivalent) - typically every 60,000 km
Coolant Change Interval:
Every 5 years or 100,000 km
Brake Fluid Change Interval:
Every 2 years
Engine Oil Spec:
API SL/CF or ACEA A3/B3, viscosity 5W-40 or 10W-40 (check manual for exact spec)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 3.2 Liters (with filter)
Coolant Type:
Antifreeze/coolant (G11 or G12 specification, typically pink or blue, mix ratio 50/50 with distilled water)
Power Steering Fluid Type:
Refer to manual (often Esso/Mobil ATF LT 71141 or equivalent, or specific Citroën fluid)
Common Complaints:
Rear axle beam wear (leading to alignment issues and clunking), occasional electrical gremlins (window regulators, central locking), ignition coil failure, exhaust manifold cracks, thermostat housing leaks, clutch slave cylinder issues.
Preventative Measures:
Regular inspection of rear axle bushes, checking for oil leaks, ensuring proper maintenance of electrical components.
Citroen Legacy:
Citroën, a French automotive manufacturer, has a long history of innovation, particularly in suspension and ride comfort (e.g., DS, CX).
Xsara Lineage:
The Xsara (Type N1/N2/N68) succeeded the Citroën ZX and was produced from 1997 to 2006. The 2005 model is part of the second generation (facelifted from 2000 onwards).
Platform Sharing:
Based on the PSA PF2 platform, sharing components with the Peugeot 206 and later models.
Production Period:
1997–2006
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily France (Aulnay-sous-Bois, Rennes) and Spain (Vigo).