Segment:
Compact Hatchback
Target Audience:
Family car, budget-conscious buyers, first-time car owners.
Key Competitors:
Peugeot 306, Volkswagen Golf Mk3, Ford Escort Mk5/Mk6, Renault Mégane I.
Design Philosophy:
Emphasized ride comfort, innovative suspension, and distinctive French styling.
Manual Utility:
Provides in-depth knowledge for effective maintenance and repair, empowering owners to reduce repair costs and prolong vehicle life.
Engine:
Complete engine systems, including disassembly, assembly, diagnostics, and repair for gasoline engines. Specific focus on the 1360cc engine variant.
Transmission:
Manual transmission systems, clutch operation, gearbox overhaul, and related components.
Fuel System:
Fuel injection systems (likely Bosch Motronic or similar for the era), fuel pump, injectors, lines, and related diagnostics.
Ignition System:
Ignition coil, spark plugs, distributor (if applicable), ECU control, and troubleshooting.
Cooling System:
Radiator, thermostat, water pump, fan, hoses, and coolant specifications.
Exhaust System:
Catalytic converter, exhaust manifold, muffler, and emissions control components.
Brake System:
Front and rear brake systems (likely disc front, drum rear for this engine size), ABS (if equipped), hydraulic lines, master cylinder, calipers, and pads/shoes.
Suspension System:
Front MacPherson struts, rear independent suspension (likely torsion beam or hydropneumatic – given the ZX, likely conventional), shock absorbers, springs, and bushings.
Steering System:
Power steering system (if equipped), steering rack, pump, and associated components.
Electrical System:
Complete automotive electrical system, including battery, alternator, starter motor, lighting, wiring diagrams, fuses, relays, and control modules.
Body And Chassis:
Body panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, interior trim, glass, and basic chassis structure.
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance tasks, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, belt inspections, and tune-ups.
Repair:
Step-by-step repair procedures for all covered systems, from minor adjustments to major component overhauls.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, diagnostic codes (OBD-I likely), and symptom-based problem solving.
Disassembly Assembly:
Detailed instructions for the complete disassembly and reassembly of all major vehicle components.
Specifications:
Critical technical specifications, torque values, tolerances, and clearances for all procedures.
Depth:
Comprehensive coverage suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts. Includes detailed explanations and diagrams for complex repairs.
Engine Code:
TU3 (likely variations such as TU3A, TU3M, or TU3JP depending on specific market/year)
Engine Type:
Inline 4-cylinder, 8-valve SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft)
Bore X Stroke:
Approx. 75.0 mm x 77.0 mm
Horsepower Range:
Approximately 70-75 PS (Pferdestärke) / 69-74 bhp (brake horsepower) at around 5200-5500 rpm.
Torque Range:
Approximately 111-118 Nm (Newton-meters) / 82-87 lb-ft at around 3000-3500 rpm.
Injection Type:
Electronic Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI).
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (RON 95 recommended)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze (e.g., PSA S71-1102 standard or equivalent G11 type).
Oil Grade:
SAE 10W-40 (API SG/CD or ACEA A2/B2) recommended, with variations based on climate.
Length:
Approximately 4020 mm (158.3 in)
Width:
Approximately 1650 mm (65.0 in)
Height:
Approximately 1370 mm (53.9 in)
Wheelbase:
Approximately 2550 mm (100.4 in)
Curb Weight:
Approximately 1000-1100 kg (2200-2425 lbs), depending on trim and equipment.
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Typically around 1500 kg (3300 lbs).
Boot Capacity:
Approx. 300-330 liters (10.6-11.6 cu ft), expandable with rear seats folded.
Euroncap Rating:
N/A for this specific model year and testing standards of the era. Early Euro NCAP tests were not as comprehensive.
ABS:
Optional on some trims, standard on higher-spec models in later years.
Airbags:
Driver airbag standard on later models, passenger airbag optional or unavailable on early models.
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts front and rear, pre-tensioners on front seatbelts (on some versions).
Chassis Safety:
Crush zones front and rear, reinforced passenger cell.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 10,000 - 15,000 km (6,000 - 9,000 miles) or 12 months, whichever comes first, depending on driving conditions.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 20,000 - 30,000 km (12,000 - 18,000 miles) or as needed based on inspection.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 40,000 - 60,000 km (24,000 - 36,000 miles), depending on spark plug type (standard copper vs. platinum).
Timing Belt Replacement:
Critical: Every 80,000 - 100,000 km (50,000 - 60,000 miles) or 5 years, as failure can cause catastrophic engine damage. The manual will specify the exact interval and procedure.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Power Steering Fluid:
Citroen LHM (Hydraulic Fluid) if equipped with hydropneumatic suspension, or Dexron II/III compatible ATF for hydraulic power steering systems.
Suspension Wear:
Rear suspension pivot bearings and bushes can wear, leading to knocking sounds and poor handling. The manual will detail inspection and replacement.
Electrical Gremlins:
As with many cars of this era, electrical connections, grounds, and minor wiring issues can sometimes cause intermittent faults. Comprehensive wiring diagrams are key.
Cooling System:
Plastic radiator end tanks can degrade over time, leading to leaks. Thermostat housing and hoses are also inspection points.
Exhaust Rusting:
The exhaust system, particularly the rear silencer and mid-section, can be susceptible to rust in certain climates.
Citroen Ethos:
Known for comfort-focused engineering, advanced hydropneumatic suspension (though not on this 1360cc ZX primarily), and avant-garde design.
Zx Development:
Developed to replace the aging Citroen GSA and compete in the C-segment. Known for its innovative rear suspension design (often a trailing arm with torsion bars, or the more advanced Hydractive system on some variants).
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily manufactured in France (Aulnay-sous-Bois, Rennes).
Total Production Volume:
Over 1 million units produced across its lifecycle.
