🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Citroen

Model:

AX

Model Generation:

First Generation

Production Years:

1987-1997

Chassis Codes:

ZA, ZAX

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The Citroen AX was a compact, lightweight supermini known for its fuel efficiency and nimble handling. It competed in a crowded segment against vehicles like the Peugeot 205, Renault Clio, and Ford Fiesta.

Competitors:

Peugeot 205, Renault 5/Clio, Ford Fiesta, Volkswagen Polo, Fiat Uno, Opel/Vauxhall Corsa.

Design Philosophy:

Emphasis on lightness, aerodynamic efficiency, and cost-effective engineering, characteristic of Citroen's innovative approach.

Lightweight Construction:

A key design attribute of the AX, contributing to its agility and fuel economy.

Aerodynamics:

Designed with a focus on reducing drag for improved fuel efficiency and high-speed stability.

📋 Manual Details

Covered Models:

Citroen AX (all variants)

Covered Years:

1987, 1988, 1989, 1990, 1991, 1992, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997

Engine Variants Covered:

All petrol (TU9, TU1, TU3, TU3S) and diesel (TUD3) engines within the specified year range.

Page Count:

Not Specified (Comprehensive PDF)

Manual Type:

Workshop Repair Service Manual

Scope:

Complete service manual providing instructions for repair, overhaul, maintenance, and diagnostics.

Language:

English

Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Systems:

Engine repair, overhaul, tune-ups, lubrication system, cooling system, fuel system (carburetor/injection), ignition system, exhaust system

Drivetrain Systems:

Manual transmission, clutch, driveshafts, CV joints

Suspension Steering:

Front and rear suspension, steering rack, power steering (if applicable), wheel alignment

Braking Systems:

Front and rear brakes (disc/drum), hydraulic system, parking brake

Electrical Systems:

Wiring diagrams, battery, alternator, starter motor, lighting system, dashboard instrumentation, body electricals

Body Chassis:

Body panel removal and installation, interior trim, doors, windows, bumpers

Comfort Systems:

Heating and ventilation system, air conditioning (if fitted as an option).

Emissions Control:

Details on emission control systems as applicable to the specific engine and market.

Maintenance Procedures:

Routine servicing, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, belt adjustments, spark plug replacement

Repair Procedures:

Engine disassembly and reassembly, transmission overhaul, brake caliper service, suspension component replacement, electrical component diagnostics

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic procedures for common faults and drivability issues

Assembly Disassembly:

Detailed instructions for removing and installing various vehicle components and assemblies

Engine Rebuild:

Yes, includes detailed procedures for engine disassembly, component inspection, reassembly, and tuning.

Transmission Repair:

Yes, covers removal, disassembly, inspection, repair, and reinstallation of manual transmissions.

Body Repair:

Includes procedures for body panel replacement, alignment, and corrosion protection.

Electrical Diagnostics:

Detailed troubleshooting guides and wiring diagrams for electrical system faults.

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering all aspects from routine maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds. Assumes technician familiarity with general automotive practices.

Diagnostic Capabilities:

Includes diagnostic information for engine performance, fuel delivery, ignition systems, and basic electrical faults.

Special Tools:

References special tools required for specific adjustments and repairs, often with Citroen part numbers.

Proprietary Components:

Incorporates instructions for proprietary components and refers to specific manufacturer instructions where necessary for optimal service.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Printability:

Printable

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital PDF)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital PDF)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options:

Primarily inline 4-cylinder engines: 1.0L (TU9), 1.1L (TU1), 1.3L/1.4L (TU3), 1.4L GTi (TU3S), 1.4L diesel (TUD3)

Gt Engine Power:

1.4L GTi (~95 hp)

Standard Engine Power:

Varies by engine, e.g., 1.1L ~60 hp

Diesel Engine Power:

1.4L Diesel (~53 hp)

Fuel Delivery:

Carburetion (early models, e.g., Solex) and multi-point fuel injection (later models, especially GTi)

Ignition Type:

Distributor-based ignition system with electronic control (later models may have distributorless ignition).

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Standard:

5-speed manual transmission

Transmission Type Optional:

3-speed automatic transmission (less common)

Clutch Type:

Single dry plate, diaphragm spring clutch

📐 Dimensions

Body Styles:

3-door hatchback, 5-door hatchback

Length:

~3.56m (140.2 inches)

Width:

~1.62m (63.8 inches)

Height:

~1.35m (53.1 inches)

Curb Weight:

Starting from ~750 kg (1650 lbs) for base models

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Results:

Limited official Euro NCAP or NHTSA data for early models. Generally considered basic safety for its era.

Braking Assistance:

Standard front disc brakes, rear drum brakes. ABS was an option on later, higher-spec models.

Restraints:

Seatbelts (front, optional rear), basic chassis structure.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Basic radio/cassette player, often with optional speaker upgrades.

ABS Availability:

Optional on higher trim levels and later models, not standard.

Connectivity Features:

None in the modern sense; basic vehicle systems only.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 10,000 km (6,000 miles) or 12 months, whichever comes first (refer to manual for exact specification).

Timing Belt Interval:

Approximately every 80,000-100,000 km (50,000-60,000 miles) for most petrol engines (critical to check and replace).

Engine Oil Viscosity:

Commonly 10W-40 or 5W-40, depending on climate and specific engine (refer to manual for exact API/ACEA ratings and capacities).

Coolant Type:

Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water (check manual for Citroen specific recommendations).

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid (hygroscopic, requires periodic replacement).

Transmission Fluid Type:

Manual transmission fluid (MTF), typically GL-4 specification, viscosity dependent on temperature (refer to manual).

Common Problems:

Rust on bodywork and suspension components, carburetor issues (early models), ignition system component wear, occasional electrical gremlins, clutch wear.

Diesel Specific Issues:

Glow plug issues, injector pump maintenance for the TUD3 diesel engine.

📚 Vehicle History

Citroen Innovation:

Citroen is renowned for innovative engineering and design, often prioritizing comfort, aerodynamics, and unique solutions, as seen in models like the DS and 2CV.

Ax Development:

Developed as a replacement for the Citroen Visa and Axel, the AX was designed to be lighter, more aerodynamic, and more modern, contributing to its fuel efficiency.

Facelift:

While the core design remained, minor aesthetic and interior updates occurred throughout its production run.

Production Locations:

Primarily manufactured in France.