Positioning:
The Citroën C1 is an A-segment city car, known for its compact size, fuel efficiency, and affordability. It was developed in partnership with Toyota, sharing its platform with the Toyota Aygo and Peugeot 107. This manual serves owners and technicians working on this popular European city car.
Competitors:
Key competitors in the 2009 model year included the Peugeot 107, Toyota Aygo, Fiat 500, Ford Ka, and Volkswagen Fox. Its shared development with the Aygo and 107 means many mechanical and electrical components are identical or highly similar.
Model Highlights:
Compact dimensions for urban maneuverability, low running costs, distinctive styling, available in 3-door and 5-door configurations, choice of economical petrol and diesel engines.
Powertrain:
Engine (1.0L VVT-i petrol, 1.4L HDi diesel), Clutch, Gearbox (Manual & Automated Manual), Driveshafts, Differentials.
Chassis:
Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering System, Braking System (Front Disc, Rear Drum), Wheels, Tires.
Electrical:
Battery, Alternator, Starter Motor, Lighting System, Wipers & Washers, Ignition System, Fuses & Relays, Engine Control Unit (ECU), Instrument Panel, Audio System, Central Locking, Power Windows.
Body And Trim:
Body Panels, Doors, Hood, Trunk Lid, Bumpers, Interior Trim, Seats, Glass, Seals.
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) System components and service.
Maintenance:
Routine service intervals, oil changes, filter replacements (oil, air, fuel, cabin), spark plug replacement, coolant checks and changes, brake fluid replacement.
Diagnostics And Troubleshooting:
Fault code interpretation, common issue diagnosis, testing of sensors and actuators, electrical system troubleshooting.
Repair And Overhaul:
Engine component removal and installation (e.g., cylinder head, pistons, crankshaft), transmission repair, brake caliper and disc replacement, suspension component replacement, starter motor and alternator replacement.
Adjustment:
Clutch adjustment, handbrake adjustment, wheel alignment procedures.
Special Tools:
Identification and use of specialized tools required for specific procedures.
Depth:
Comprehensive coverage from basic maintenance to complex component overhauls, including detailed diagrams, specifications, and torque values. Suitable for DIY enthusiasts and professional mechanics.
Digital Format:
Searchable PDF with clickable links/bookmarks for easy navigation. High-resolution diagrams and clear text.
Print Quality:
When printed, expect clear, sharp text and diagrams comparable to original manufacturer publications.
Binding Type:
For printed versions: Professional paperback or spiral binding for durability and lay-flat usability in a workshop environment.
Paper Type:
For printed versions: Durable paper stock, often with a matte or semi-gloss finish, designed to withstand workshop conditions.
Engine Options:
1.0L (998cc) 3-cylinder VVT-i petrol and 1.4L (1398cc) 4-cylinder HDi diesel.
Petrol Engine Performance:
1.0 VVT-i: Approx. 68 PS (50 kW) at 6000 rpm, 93 Nm (69 lb-ft) torque at 3600 rpm. CDI: Approx. 54 PS (40 kW) at 4000 rpm, 130 Nm (96 lb-ft) torque at 1750 rpm.
Petrol Fuel System:
Electronic Fuel Injection (MPI - Multi-Point Injection). VVT-i system for variable valve timing.
Diesel Fuel System:
Direct Injection Common Rail (CDi) with turbocharging.
Petrol Engine Code:
1KR-FE (shared with Toyota Aygo/Yaris)
Diesel Engine Code:
8HX (DV4) or 8HZ (DV4) (shared with Peugeot/Citroën small cars)
Standard Transmission:
5-speed manual transmission.
Optional Transmission:
2-Tronic Automated Manual Transmission (AMT) - available on some models.
Clutch Type:
Single dry plate diaphragm spring clutch.
Gear Ratios:
Specific gear ratios for 5-speed manual and 2-Tronic transmissions are detailed within the manual.
Manual Gearbox Fluid:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-80 or 75W-90 synthetic gear oil. (Check manual for exact specification and capacity).
Amt Fluid Type:
Specific hydraulic fluid for the AMT actuator system; refer to manual for type and capacity.
Length:
Approx. 3435 mm (135.2 in)
Width:
Approx. 1630 mm (64.2 in)
Height:
Approx. 1470 mm (57.9 in)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2340 mm (92.1 in)
Boot Capacity:
Approx. 139 liters (expanding to 718 liters with rear seats folded).
Curb Weight:
Varies by engine and trim, typically around 750-850 kg.
Gross Vehicle Weight:
Refer to vehicle identification plate or manual for exact GVW.
Euro Ncap Rating:
4 out of 5 stars (for models with optional safety packs), 3 stars (base models). Manual covers safety system servicing.
Braking System:
Front ventilated discs, rear drums. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and EBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution) available on some models.
Stability Control:
ESP (Electronic Stability Programme) was an optional feature on later models or higher trims.
Airbags:
Driver and passenger front airbags standard. Side airbags and curtain airbags available as options or on higher trims.
Seatbelts:
3-point seatbelts with pretensioners for front occupants. ISOFIX child seat mounting points.
Audio System:
Factory fitted radio/CD player with 2 or 4 speakers. Some models may have steering wheel audio controls. Manual covers basic audio system removal and installation.
Parking Assistance:
Rear parking sensors were an optional accessory, not typically integrated into the manual's core coverage.
Bluetooth:
Bluetooth connectivity was not widely available on base models from 2009; it was more of a dealer-fit accessory or an option on higher trims.
Headlight Types:
Standard halogen headlights. Manual covers bulb replacement procedures.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 15,000 km (approx. 9,300 miles) or 1 year, whichever comes first. Diesel may have slightly different intervals.
Air Filter Replacement:
Recommended every 30,000 km (approx. 18,600 miles) or 2 years.
Spark Plug Replacement:
For 1.0L VVT-i: Typically around 60,000 km (approx. 37,000 miles) or 4 years, using specific iridium-tipped plugs.
Timing Belt Replacement:
The 1.0L VVT-i engine uses a timing chain, which typically requires no periodic replacement unless worn. The 1.4 HDi uses a timing belt, requiring replacement every ~120,000 km or 10 years. Consult the manual for exact details.
Engine Oil Specification:
For 1.0 VVT-i: Typically ACEA A1/B1 or A5/B5, SAE 0W-20 or 0W-30 low-viscosity synthetic oil. For 1.4 HDi: Typically ACEA B1/B3/B4/B5 or C2, SAE 5W-30 synthetic low-ash oil. (ALWAYS refer to the manual for exact specification and capacity).
Coolant Specification:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze with organic acid technology (OAT), typically purple or pink color. Consult manual for specific type and capacity (e.g., PSA B71 5100).
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 4 or DOT 5.1. Recommended replacement every 2 years.
Common Faults Petrol:
Potential issues include clutch wear (especially with AMT), catalytic converter failure, and occasional electrical gremlins. The 1.0L engine is generally robust.
Common Faults Diesel:
The 1.4 HDi can be susceptible to EGR valve clogging, DPF issues (if fitted), and injector problems if not maintained with correct oil and fuel. Turbocharger wear can occur with high mileage.
Suspension Wear:
Like many small cars, suspension components like anti-roll bar links, shock absorbers, and ball joints can wear with age and mileage, leading to knocking sounds.
Brake Wear:
Rear drum brakes may require periodic adjustment or replacement of shoes. Front brake pads and discs are standard wear items.
Citroen Heritage:
Citroën, a French automotive manufacturer founded in 1919, is known for its innovative engineering and distinctive styling, historically producing cars like the Traction Avant and 2CV.
C1 Development:
The C1 was launched in 2005 as part of a joint venture with Toyota Motor Europe (TME) and PSA Peugeot Citroën. The 2009 model represents a facelifted version of the first generation, with minor styling updates and improved efficiency. It's designed to be a cost-effective and practical city car.
Production Location:
Manufactured at the Toyota Peugeot Citroën Automobile (TPCA) Czech Republic plant in Kolín.
Euro Ncap Rating Details:
The C1's safety rating of 3-4 stars reflects its segment at the time, a common outcome for many A-segment vehicles. The manual provides details on servicing the safety systems that contributed to this rating.
Fuel Economy Ratings:
The 1.0 VVT-i engine is renowned for its exceptional fuel economy, often cited as one of the most economical petrol engines in its class. Official figures for the 2009 model are typically around 4.5-5.0 L/100km combined. The 1.4 HDi offers similar or slightly better diesel economy.