Vehicle Segment:
Compact/Small Family Car
Design Philosophy:
Aerodynamic, innovative, and comfortable family car
Key Competitors:
Renault 12, Simca 1100, Ford Escort (European market)
Distinctive Features:
Hydropneumatic self-leveling suspension, distinctive 'fastback' styling, front-wheel drive, excellent interior space for its size
Engine:
Complete overhaul, diagnosis, repair, and tune-up procedures
Transmission:
Service, repair, and adjustment of all transmission variants
Suspension:
Detailed information on the innovative hydropneumatic suspension system, including components, servicing, and troubleshooting
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, brake discs, pads, fluid replacement, and bleeding procedures
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, component testing, ignition system, lighting, and accessories
Bodywork:
Panel repair, door mechanisms, glass replacement, and trim
Cooling System:
Radiator, fan, hoses, thermostat, and coolant specifications
Fuel System:
Carburetor (likely Solex or Zenith) overhaul and adjustment, fuel pump, and tank servicing
Steering:
Steering rack, linkages, and adjustment procedures
HVAC:
Heating system operation and basic maintenance (air conditioning less common for early models)
Routine Maintenance:
Periodic maintenance charts, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, and lubrication schedules
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common problems, fault finding guides
Overhaul:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for major component overhauls (e.g., engine, transmission, suspension)
Repair Instructions:
Step-by-step repair procedures for all major vehicle systems
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical wiring schematics
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, horizontally opposed, 4-cylinder boxer engine
Engine Displacement Early:
1015 cc (GS)
Engine Displacement Later:
1124 cc (GS), 1220 cc (GSA)
Horsepower Early:
Approximately 56-60 hp DIN
Horsepower Later:
Approximately 60-70 hp DIN
Torque Early:
Approximately 82-85 Nm DIN
Carburetion:
Single or twin Solex/Zenith downdraft carburetors
Cooling Method:
Air-cooled
Crash Test Era:
Information from the 1970s and 1980s, generally less standardized than modern tests
Active Safety:
Disc brakes (front), drum brakes (rear), well-balanced chassis for its time
Passive Safety:
Integral body structure, padded dashboard, seatbelts
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000-7,500 km or annually
Filter Replacement Interval:
Oil filter: With every oil change. Air filter: Every 15,000-20,000 km
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 20,000-30,000 km, depending on type
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 20W-50 or 15W-40 (API SE/SF rating) – Refer to manual for specific viscosity grades for temperature ranges
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 3.5 - 4.0 liters (including filter)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (refer to manual for confirmation)
Suspension Fluid Type:
LHM (Liquide Hydraulique Minéral) – Citroen's proprietary mineral-based hydraulic fluid
Transmission Fluid Type:
GL-4 Gear Oil (e.g., SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90)
Common Problems:
Corrosion (especially wheel arches and sills), hydropneumatic suspension leaks or pressure loss, ignition system (coil, points, condenser), carburetor tuning issues, oil leaks from the air-cooled engine.
Key Maintenance Points:
Regular checking and topping up of suspension fluid (LHM), regular lubrication of suspension and steering components, diligent rust prevention, and timely ignition system maintenance.
Manufacturer Origin:
France
Citroen Innovation:
Known for pioneering hydropneumatic suspension (2CV, DS) and aerodynamic designs
Gs Introduction:
Launched in 1970 as a more conventional (compared to DS) but still innovative family car
Gsa Introduction:
Introduced in 1980 with updated styling (plastic bumpers, GSA grille), revised interior, and larger engine options
Production Period:
1970-1986
Production Volume:
Over 1.6 million units produced worldwide