Vehicle Segment:
Compact to Mid-size Family Car
Key Competitors 1987:
Volkswagen Golf, Ford Escort, Opel Kadett, Peugeot 309
Unique Selling Proposition:
Innovative hydropneumatic suspension, aerodynamic styling, comfortable ride.
Engine Service Repair:
Comprehensive coverage of engine disassembly, assembly, diagnostics, and repair.
Transmission Service Repair:
Detailed procedures for manual and automatic transmission service, repair, and adjustment.
Brake System:
In-depth coverage of hydraulic, disc, and drum brake systems, including ABS if applicable for the year.
Wiring Diagram:
Complete electrical wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems.
Electrical System:
Troubleshooting and repair of starter, charging, ignition, lighting, and accessory circuits.
Suspension:
Detailed information on hydropneumatic suspension systems, components, and maintenance.
Steering:
Power steering system diagnosis, repair, and maintenance.
Cooling System:
Radiator, fan, pump, thermostat, and coolant service procedures.
Fuel Injection Fuel System:
Diagnosis and repair of fuel injection systems (e.g., Bosch LE2-Jetronic, K-Jetronic), fuel pump, injectors, and lines.
Emission System:
Information on emission control components and troubleshooting.
Engine Control System:
Diagnosis of engine control unit (ECU) and associated sensors/actuators.
Chassis Body:
Bodywork repair, panel replacement, and structural component servicing.
Restraint System:
Information on seat belts and any applicable airbag systems for the model year.
Axle:
Front and rear axle service, including drive shafts and differentials.
General Maintenance:
Routine checks, fluid level adjustments, and preventive maintenance procedures.
Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon vehicle issues.
Periodic Lubrication:
Detailed lubrication points and recommended lubricant types and intervals.
Disassembly Reassembly:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal and installation.
Repair:
Detailed repair procedures for all major vehicle systems.
Service:
Standard service operations and adjustments.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance tasks and recommendations.
Refurbish Renovate Mend Fix:
Guidance on restoring and repairing worn or damaged components.
Depth:
Comprehensive from basic maintenance to in-depth repairs and diagnostics.
Engine Options 1987:
1.6L (XU5J), 1.9L (XU9J1, XU9J2, XU9JP), 1.9L Diesel (XUD7)
Typical Horsepower Range:
70 hp (Diesel) to 115 hp (1.9i Injection)
Typical Torque Range:
130 Nm (Diesel) to 160 Nm (1.9i Injection)
Injection Systems:
Carbureted (1.6), Bosch L-Jetronic/Motronic (1.9i), K-Jetronic (some variants)
Configuration:
Inline 4-cylinder
Block Material:
Cast Iron
Head Material:
Aluminum Alloy
Crash Test Historical:
No standardized Euro NCAP ratings for this era, but designed with crumple zones.
Braking System Design:
Discs front, Drums rear (standard); potential for discs all around on higher trims.
Seat Belts:
Standard 3-point seat belts front and rear.
Body Structure:
Reinforced body structure with energy-absorbing zones.
Oil Change Interval Km:
Typically 5,000-10,000 km (check specific engine type and oil used).
Timing Belt Replacement Km:
Critical: Varies by engine, typically 60,000-80,000 km or 4-5 years for petrol engines.
Engine Oil Type Petrol:
API SF/CC or SG/CD, SAE 10W-40 or 15W-50 depending on climate (verify in manual).
Engine Oil Type Diesel:
API CD/CF, SAE 10W-40 or 15W-50 (verify in manual).
Hydropneumatic Fluid:
LHM (Liquide Hydraulique Minéral) – specific Citroën formulation.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (for brake system if separate from hydraulic system).
Suspension Spheres:
Hydropneumatic spheres can degrade over time, affecting ride comfort and height regulation.
Hydropneumatic Leaks:
Leaking seals or hoses in the hydraulic system are common maintenance items.
Rust Corrosion:
Common for vehicles of this era, especially in areas prone to road salt.
Electrical Gremlins:
Older wiring can become brittle, leading to intermittent electrical issues.
Cooling System Fan:
Electric cooling fan failure can lead to overheating.
Citroen Design Philosophy:
Known for pioneering innovative technologies like hydropneumatic suspension and aerodynamic design.
Bx Introduction:
Launched in 1982 as a successor to the Citroën GS/GSA.
1987 Updates:
Likely received minor styling tweaks or equipment updates for the 1987 model year, common for mid-cycle refreshes.
Production Period:
1982-1994
Manufacturing Locations:
France, Spain, United Kingdom
