🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Citroën

Model:

C15

Internal Model Code:

VDUN

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The Citroën C15 was a light commercial vehicle (LCV) designed as a utilitarian workhorse, renowned for its robust build quality, practicality, and affordability, particularly in European markets.

Competitors:

Competed primarily with vehicles like the Peugeot 205 Van, Renault Express, Fiat Fiorino, and Ford Escort Van.

Practicality:

Spacious and versatile cargo area, durable construction, reliable mechanicals derived from passenger car platforms.

Simplicity:

Relatively simple mechanical design made it easy to maintain and repair, contributing to its popularity among small businesses and tradespeople.

📋 Manual Details

Language:

English

Estimated Page Count:

500+

Type:

Service and Repair Manual

Format:

Digital (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Full engine overhaul, diagnostics, tuning, cooling system, lubrication system, fuel system (carburetor and injection), ignition system.

Transmission:

Manual gearbox (gearbox types, clutch assembly, driveshafts, maintenance, repair).

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, steering knuckle, alignment procedures.

Brakes:

Front and rear brake systems (discs/drums), hydraulic system, parking brake, ABS (if equipped), bleeding procedures, component replacement.

Electrical:

Wiring diagrams, charging system (alternator, battery), starting system (starter motor), lighting, instrumentation, fuses and relays, accessory circuits.

Body:

Body panels, doors, glass, interior trim, seat adjustment, maintenance and repair of bodywork.

Steering:

Manual steering system, steering rack, column, and linkages. Power steering was an option on some later models or higher trims.

Fuel System Diesel:

Detailed coverage of Bosch or Lucas fuel injection pumps, injectors, fuel lines, and filters for XUD diesel engines.

Fuel System Petrol:

Specific details for Solex or Weber carburetors, fuel pumps, and fuel filters for TU petrol engines.

Exhaust System:

Inspection, maintenance, and replacement of exhaust manifold, pipes, catalytic converter (if fitted), and silencer.

Maintenance:

Routine servicing, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, timing belt inspection/replacement, fluid checks and top-ups.

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting guides for common problems, symptom-based diagnostics for engine, transmission, and electrical systems.

Repair:

Step-by-step repair instructions for all major mechanical and electrical components, including engine rebuilds, gearbox overhauls, and body repairs.

Wheel Alignment:

Specifications and procedures for front and rear wheel alignment, including camber, caster, and toe adjustments.

Engine Diagnostics:

Fault codes and diagnostic procedures for both petrol and diesel engines, including methods for checking sensors, actuators, and ECU (if applicable).

Transmission Repair:

Complete instructions for gearbox removal, disassembly, component replacement (bearings, synchros, gears), and reassembly.

Electrical Diagnostics:

Detailed troubleshooting flowcharts for common electrical issues, testing of starter motors, alternators, and ignition components.

Depth:

Comprehensive coverage suitable for professional technicians and experienced DIY enthusiasts, including detailed torque specifications, clearances, and diagnostic data.

Special Tools:

Identification and usage of special tools required for specific repair procedures, such as timing belt tensioning or suspension component removal.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Readability:

High-resolution scans with clear text and diagrams, optimized for digital viewing and printing.

Binding:

Not Applicable (Digital Format)

Paper Quality:

Not Applicable (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Family:

Various petrol and diesel engines, commonly including the TU series petrol engines and XUD series diesel engines.

Power Output Range:

Approximately 45-75 hp depending on engine variant.

Torque Range:

Approximately 80-120 Nm depending on engine variant.

Fuel Delivery:

Carburetor (petrol) and indirect injection (diesel) common across various models.

Diesel Options:

Popular variants include the 1.8L (XUD7) and 1.9L (XUD9) naturally aspirated diesel engines known for their durability and fuel economy.

Petrol Options:

Commonly featured the 1.1L (TU1) and 1.4L (TU3) petrol engines.

Petrol Displacement:

Common petrol engines include 1.1L (1124 cc) and 1.4L (1360 cc).

Diesel Displacement:

Common diesel engines include 1.8L (1769 cc) and 1.9L (1905 cc).

🔧 Transmission

Type:

5-speed manual transmission.

Type:

Some earlier or specific market variants might have offered a 4-speed manual, but 5-speed became standard.

Clutch:

Cable-operated clutch system.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approximately 3,970 mm (156.3 in)

Width:

Approximately 1,620 mm (63.8 in)

Height:

Approximately 1,800 mm (70.9 in)

Wheelbase:

Approximately 2,550 mm (100.4 in)

Load Volume:

Significant cargo capacity, often exceeding 2,500 liters with rear seats folded or removed.

Gross Vehicle Weight:

Varies by configuration, typically around 1600-1800 kg.

🛡️ Safety Features

Euro Ncap:

As a light commercial vehicle of its era, specific Euro NCAP ratings might not be directly comparable to modern passenger cars. Generally considered basic for its class.

ABS:

Optional on some later models or higher trims, not standard on all variants.

Airbags:

Driver airbag was an option on some models, passenger airbag was rare.

Seatbelts:

Standard front seatbelts, rear seatbelts dependent on passenger version.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Basic radio/cassette player, often with optional CD player on later models. Limited connectivity options.

Cruise Control:

Rarely fitted, not a standard feature.

Bluetooth:

Not available from factory.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change:

Typically every 7,500 - 10,000 miles or 12 months for petrol, and 10,000 - 12,000 miles or 12 months for diesel, depending on usage and oil type.

Timing Belt:

Around 60,000-80,000 miles or 5 years for petrol engines (TU series), and generally longer intervals or chain-driven for XUD diesels (check specific engine).

Engine Oil:

API SG/SH or ACEA A2/A3 for petrol, API CF or CD for diesel. Viscosity typically 10W-40 or 15W-40, but check manual for specific recommendations.

Coolant:

Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze, typically a pink or blue mixture. Capacity around 5.5-6.0 liters. Use manufacturer-specified coolant or equivalent.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid. Bleed and replace every 2 years.

Transmission Oil:

API GL-4 specification manual transmission fluid, typically SAE 75W-80 or 75W-90. Capacity around 2.0-2.5 liters.

Power Steering Fluid:

If equipped with power steering, typically uses ATF (Automatic Transmission Fluid) or specific hydraulic fluid. Check manual for exact specification.

Rust:

Prone to corrosion, especially on wheel arches, sills, and rear crossmember. Regular checks and rust treatment are advised.

Suspension Wear:

Wear in front suspension components (ball joints, tie rod ends) and rear suspension bushes due to commercial use and vehicle weight.

Diesel Glow Plugs:

Diesel variants can experience issues with glow plugs or the glow plug relay, affecting cold starts.

Carburetor Issues:

Petrol variants with carburetors can require tuning or cleaning due to wear or blockage.

Clutch Wear:

Clutch wear can occur with heavy usage, requiring replacement of the clutch disc, pressure plate, and release bearing.

📚 Vehicle History

Citroen Legacy:

Citroën has a long history of producing practical and innovative vehicles, including LCVs that have become iconic for their utility.

Production Start:

Introduced in 1981, based on the Citroën Visa platform.

Production End:

Production continued until 2005, making it one of Citroën's longest-running models.

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily manufactured in France, with some production potentially in other European facilities.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Industry Accolades:

While specific awards might be limited, the C15 was widely recognized for its reliability and value within the LCV sector, earning a strong reputation among tradespeople.