Segment:
Compact family car, C-segment
Target Audience:
Families, general consumers seeking practicality and comfort
Key Competitors:
Ford Focus, Volkswagen Golf, Opel Astra, Renault Mégane
Citroen Emphasis:
Comfort-oriented ride (hydropneumatic suspension on some earlier models, advanced damping on this generation), distinctive French styling, practicality.
Value Proposition:
Empowers owners and independent mechanics with the technical knowledge to perform maintenance, repairs, and diagnostics on the Citroën Xsara, ensuring optimal performance and longevity.
Powertrain:
Engine mechanicals (NFU, EW10J4 variants), Fuel system (MPI), Ignition system, Cooling system, Exhaust system, Lubrication system, Turbocharging (if applicable to specific variant, though 2.0i 16V typically NA)
Transmission:
Manual Transmission (ML5C, BE series), Automatic Transmission (AL4 - if applicable), Clutch system, Driveshafts
Chassis:
Front Suspension (MacPherson struts, anti-roll bar), Rear Suspension (Twist beam axle with trailing arms), Steering system (Hydraulic power steering), Brakes (Front: Ventilated discs, Rear: Discs), ABS system, Handbrake
Electrical:
Battery, Charging system (alternator), Starting system (starter motor), Lighting system (headlights, taillights, interior), Fuses and Relays, Wiring diagrams (ECU, body control module, comfort systems), Immobilizer system, Instrument panel, Audio system
Body And Interior:
Body panels, Doors, Windows, Seats, HVAC system (Air Conditioning, Heater), Airbags, Seatbelts, Trim components, Exterior trim
Maintenance Tasks:
Oil changes, Filter replacements (oil, air, fuel, cabin), Spark plug replacement, Coolant flush, Brake fluid change, Transmission fluid change, Timing belt/chain inspection/replacement (depending on engine variant), Belt replacement (serpentine/accessory)
Repair Tasks:
Engine component overhaul (cylinder head, pistons, crankshaft), Fuel injector testing/replacement, Ignition coil replacement, Radiator and hose replacement, Water pump replacement, Clutch assembly replacement, Brake caliper and disc replacement, Suspension component replacement (shocks, bushings, ball joints), Power steering pump replacement, Alternator and starter replacement, Body panel repair and replacement, HVAC component repair
Diagnostics And Troubleshooting:
Fault code reading (OBD-II), Symptom-based troubleshooting, Electrical system diagnostics, Engine performance diagnostics, Transmission shifting issues, Brake system fault finding
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers routine maintenance, component replacement, complex diagnostics, and full rebuild procedures. Includes detailed torque specifications, wiring diagrams, and component removal/installation sequences.
Engine Type:
Inline 4-cylinder, naturally aspirated
Bore X Stroke:
85 mm x 88 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.8:1
Valve Train:
DOHC, 16 valves
Horsepower:
138 PS (136 bhp; 101 kW) at 6000 rpm (approx.)
Torque:
192 Nm (142 lb-ft) at 4000 rpm (approx.)
Injection Type:
Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Petrol (RON 95 recommended)
Type:
Electronic ignition with coil-on-plug or distributor-based (model dependent)
Type:
Liquid-cooled, pressurized
Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.5 - 5.0 liters (with filter change)
Type:
5-speed Manual Transmission (e.g., ML5C)
Type:
4-speed Automatic Transmission (e.g., AL4 - availability varies by market and trim)
Clutch Type:
Hydraulically operated, dry single-plate
Manual Transmission Fluid:
GL-4 SAE 75W-80 or 75W-90 (refer to specific PSA lubricant specification, e.g., PSA S71 2317)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
LT 71141 or equivalent (e.g., Mobil ATF LT 71141, Total Fluide AT42)
Length:
Approx. 4130 mm (Hatchback)
Height:
Approx. 1425 mm (Hatchback)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2605 mm
Trunk Capacity:
Approx. 324 liters (Hatchback, rear seats up)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1250 kg (depending on body style and equipment)
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
4x108
Tire Sizes:
Commonly 185/65 R15, 195/55 R15, 205/50 R16 (VTS models)
Euro Ncap Score:
4 stars (for models tested in its era, specific score varies by year and test configuration)
ABS:
Standard on most 2.0i 16V models
E Brake Force Distribution:
Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD) often integrated with ABS
Airbags:
Driver, Passenger, Side airbags (depending on trim level)
Seatbelts:
Pre-tensioned seatbelts with force limiters
Child Seat Anchors:
ISOFIX mounting points (often on rear outer seats)
Audio System:
Factory fitted radio/CD player with standard speaker configuration, optional steering wheel audio controls.
Display:
Central display for audio, climate control, and trip computer information.
Cruise Control:
Optional on higher trims, integrated with engine management.
Parking Sensors:
Optional rear parking sensors available on some models.
OBD Ii:
Standard OBD-II diagnostic port for fault code reading and live data.
Engine Oil And Filter:
Every 15,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first (or as per specific driving conditions).
Air Filter:
Every 30,000 miles or 24 months.
Spark Plugs:
Every 60,000 miles or 48 months (platinum or iridium type recommended).
Timing Belt:
If applicable to the specific engine variant (check manual), typically 75,000 - 90,000 miles or 5-6 years. Crucial for engine longevity.
Coolant Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles or 24 months.
Engine Oil:
SAE 5W-40 or 10W-40, API SN/CF or ACEA A3/B4 compliant (check specific PSA approval in manual).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 (or DOT 3 if specified for older components)
Power Steering Fluid:
Hydraulic fluid, typically PSA specification (e.g., LHM Plus for some older models, but for 2005 likely mineral oil-based hydraulic fluid, check manual).
Electrical:
Faulty window regulators, intermittent dashboard warning lights, ABS sensor failures, BSI (Body Systems Interface) module issues.
Suspension:
Wear in rear axle bushings (can lead to tracking issues), worn front suspension top mounts.
Engine:
Oil leaks from sump or rocker cover, potential ECU issues, catalytic converter degradation, cooling fan motor failures.
HVAC:
Leaking heater matrix, air conditioning system performance issues, blower motor resistor failure.
Citroen Philosophy:
Known for innovation, comfort, and unique design, often pushing boundaries in automotive engineering.
Xsara Lineage:
Successor to the Citroën ZX, part of a lineage of popular French compact cars. The Xsara was available in hatchback, coupe, and estate body styles, and the Xsara Picasso was a highly successful MPV variant.
Generation:
Second generation (Type N1 for Hatchback/Coupe, Type N2 for Estate), facelifted in 2000.
Production Years:
1997 - 2006 (last Xsara models, Picasso continued later)
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily France, also Spain, Iran, and Egypt through CKD assembly.