Positioning:
The Citroën AX was a popular supermini in Europe, known for its compact size, fuel efficiency, and innovative design for its era. This manual targets owners and mechanics focused on maintaining and repairing this specific model.
Competitors:
Competed with vehicles like the Ford Fiesta, Renault 5, Peugeot 205, and Volkswagen Polo.
Vehicle Features:
Lightweight construction, aerodynamic design, fuel-efficient engines, and a unique interior layout.
Value:
Provides comprehensive technical data and repair procedures mirroring professional workshop manuals, enabling effective self-maintenance and repair, thus saving on labor costs.
Engine:
Yes, detailed diagnostics, repair, and rebuilding for all gasoline and diesel engines
Transmission:
Yes, manual and automatic transmission service, repair, and overhaul
Brakes:
Yes, hydraulic system, ABS (if equipped), disc/drum brake servicing, adjustments, and component replacement
Electrical:
Yes, complete wiring diagrams, troubleshooting, starter, alternator, ignition system, lighting, and accessories
Suspension:
Yes, front and rear suspension, shock absorbers, springs, and alignment
Steering:
Yes, steering rack, power steering (if equipped), and column servicing
Bodywork:
Yes, body panel removal/installation, door mechanisms, glass replacement, and trim
Cooling System:
Yes, radiator, water pump, thermostat, and fan servicing
Fuel System:
Yes, fuel pump, carburetor/injection system, fuel lines, and tank servicing
Exhaust System:
Yes, muffler, catalytic converter, and pipe replacement
Climate Control:
Yes, HVAC system diagnosis and repair (heater core, AC components if applicable)
Maintenance:
Yes, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, tune-ups, and belt replacements
Troubleshooting:
Yes, comprehensive diagnostic procedures and common fault finding
Repair:
Yes, detailed step-by-step repair instructions for all major components
Rebuilding:
Yes, engine and transmission rebuilding procedures
Refurbishment:
Yes, guidance for restoring various vehicle components
Depth:
Covers all diagnostic and repair procedures with great detail, suitable for professional technicians and DIY mechanics
Illustrations:
Detailed illustrations, drawings, and photos guide through every procedure
Instructions Format:
Numbered instructions for step-by-step guidance
Notes Cautions Warnings:
Included throughout each chapter for critical information
Sub Steps:
Detailed sub-steps to expand on repair procedure information
Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed and combined with electrical troubleshooting for ease of use
Engine Options:
Likely includes 1.0L (TU9), 1.1L (TU1), 1.3L (TU24 - GT), and 1.4L (TU3) gasoline engines, and potentially diesel variants (e.g., XUD7).
Horsepower Range:
Approximately 45-100 hp depending on engine variant.
Torque Range:
Varies significantly by engine, but generally modest for efficiency.
Carburetor Injection:
Features both carburetor systems (e.g., Solex, Weber) and early fuel injection systems depending on engine and market.
Engine Code Examples:
TU9, TU1, TU3, XUD7
Transmission Type:
Typically a 4 or 5-speed manual transmission.
Automatic Transmission:
Optional automatic transmission available on some models.
Clutch Type:
Single dry plate, hydraulically actuated clutch.
Manual Transmission Fluid:
Typically requires a GL-4 spec gear oil, e.g., SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90.
Length:
Approximately 3390 mm (133.5 inches).
Width:
Approximately 1620 mm (63.8 inches).
Height:
Approximately 1330 mm (52.4 inches).
Curb Weight:
Starts around 700 kg (1540 lbs) for base models.
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Typically around 1200-1300 kg, depending on configuration.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 10,000 km or 12 months, but refer to manual for specific engine/oil type.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Critical for TU engines; typically recommended every 60,000-80,000 km or 4-5 years. Failure can cause catastrophic engine damage.
Engine Oil:
Likely API SG or SH, viscosity dependent on climate (e.g., 10W-40, 15W-40). Consult manual for precise recommendations.
Coolant:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Specific type to be confirmed in manual.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4, depending on system specification.
Electrical Gremlins:
Common in older European cars; loose connections, corroded grounds, and aging wiring can cause intermittent issues.
Rust Corrosion:
Can be susceptible to rust, particularly in wheel arches, sills, and suspension mounting points, especially in areas with salt exposure.
Suspension Wear:
Front suspension components, especially ball joints and bushings, can wear over time.
Carburetor Issues:
Carbureted models can suffer from wear, blockages, or maladjustment of the carburetor, affecting idle and performance.
Gearbox Synchromesh:
Wear in synchromesh rings on manual gearboxes can lead to difficulty engaging gears.
Citroen Philosophy:
Citroën has a long history of innovation in automotive engineering, focusing on comfort, aerodynamics, and unique design elements.
Introduction Year:
The Citroën AX was introduced in 1986 as a successor to the Citroën Visa and Talbot Samba.
Facelifts Updates:
Received minor updates and facelifts throughout its production run (until 1998), with the 1990 model representing a key period.
Production Period:
1986 - 1998
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily manufactured in France.