Market Position:
The Citroën CX was positioned as a premium, technologically advanced, and comfortable executive car, distinct from its more mainstream European competitors.
Key Competitors:
Competed with vehicles like the Peugeot 604, Renault 20/30, Ford Granada, BMW 5 Series (E12/E28), and Mercedes-Benz W123 series.
Distinctive Features:
Renowned for its aerodynamic styling, hydropneumatic suspension, DIRAVI self-centering power steering, and unique interior design.
Applicable Years:
1975, 1976, 1977, 1978, 1979, 1980, 1981, 1982, 1983, 1984, 1985, 1986, 1987
Engine Variants Covered:
Encompasses various petrol engines (2.0L, 2.2L, 2.3L, 2.5L) and diesel engines (2.2L Diesel, 2.5L Diesel Turbo), including carbureted and fuel-injected versions.
Manual Type:
Full Service Repair Manual
Delivery Method:
Instant Download
Engine:
Detailed coverage of all engine variants (e.g., DS Special, GTi, CX 20, CX 22, CX 2400, CX 25, CX 25 TRD Turbo 2)
Transmission:
Manual and automatic transmission servicing, repair, and overhaul
Hydropneumatic Suspension:
In-depth coverage of Citroën's signature hydropneumatic suspension system, including spheres, accumulators, pumps, and hydraulic fluid
Brakes:
Front and rear brake system diagnostics, repair, and component replacement
Electrical System:
Comprehensive electrical system troubleshooting with detailed wiring diagrams
Bodywork:
Body panel repair, alignment, and rust prevention techniques
Steering:
Power steering system repair and adjustments
Cooling System:
Radiator, fan, and coolant circuit maintenance and repair
Fuel System:
Fuel injection and carburetion system servicing
Exhaust System:
Exhaust system inspection and replacement
Climate Control:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system diagnosis and repair.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, tune-ups
Repair:
Component replacement, overhauls, and major repairs for all systems
Troubleshooting:
Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for common and complex issues
Diagnostics:
Electrical diagnostics, mechanical system diagnostics, and performance troubleshooting
Rebuilds:
Engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, and carburetor/injector rebuilding
Electrical Troubleshooting:
Specific section dedicated to electrical system diagnostics, including fuse box layouts, component testing, and detailed wiring diagrams for various circuits (lighting, ignition, instrumentation, etc.).
Body And Chassis:
Procedures for bodywork repair, chassis component replacement, and corrosion control measures.
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to advanced diagnostics and complete rebuilds, suitable for professional technicians and skilled DIY mechanics.
Diagnostic Tools:
Provides information on diagnostic procedures that would have been used by professional technicians, including electrical testing and component-specific checks.
Print Quality:
Full Printable
Binding Type:
Digital (PDF Download)
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital)
Software Requirements:
Adobe PDF Reader, WinRAR
Operating System Compatibility:
All Versions of Windows & Mac
Illustrative Content:
Contains detailed illustrations, drawings, and photos to guide repair procedures, with enlarged insets for detailed part examination.
Step By Step Instructions:
Features numbered instructions for each repair procedure, breaking down complex tasks into manageable, sequential steps.
Engine Options:
Varied throughout its production. Early models commonly featured the 'DS Special' 2.0L (1985cc) and later the 2.2L (2175cc) inline-4 engines. Later models offered 2.5L variants, including the 2.5TRD (Diesel Turbo) and the performance-oriented 2.5 GTi.
Engine Codes:
While specific engine codes are extensive and vary by year/market, the manual would detail identifiers for engines like the Douvrin 'Suitcase' engine variants, Roland-Garros models, etc.
Horsepower Range:
Approximately 90 hp to 140 hp depending on engine and fuel system (carbureted vs. injected, naturally aspirated vs. turbocharged diesel).
Torque Range:
Torque figures vary widely, but generally range from approximately 140 Nm to 200 Nm (103 lb-ft to 148 lb-ft) depending on engine displacement and tuning.
Fuel System Types:
Primarily carbureted engines in earlier years, transitioning to Bosch L-Jetronic or K-Jetronic fuel injection on petrol models, and indirect injection on diesel variants. Turbocharged diesel engines were also prominent.
Infotainment Features:
Basic AM/FM radio, often with cassette player. Dashboard layout was driver-focused with unique controls.
Driver Assistance Features:
DIRAVI (Direction à Rappel Automatique) power steering, which centers the steering wheel at speed and reduces steering effort at low speeds.
Connectivity Features:
N/A (No modern connectivity features like Bluetooth or USB were available).
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000-7,500 km (3,000-5,000 miles) or annually, depending on driving conditions and oil type. Consult manual for specific engine and oil type.
Hydropneumatic Fluid Change:
LHM (Liquide Hydraulique Minéral) fluid flushing and replacement at intervals specified in the manual, often around 60,000 km (40,000 miles), is critical for system longevity.
Engine Oil Specification:
API SF/SG or ACEA A2/A3, viscosity grade typically 10W-40 or 15W-50, depending on ambient temperature. Consult manual for exact specifications and capacity.
Hydropneumatic Fluid Specification:
Citroën LHS 2 (later LHM Plus) is essential. Never use mineral oil or brake fluid in the hydropneumatic system.
Transmission Fluid Specification Manual:
API GL-4 gear oil, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90.
Transmission Fluid Specification Automatic:
Dexron II or equivalent automatic transmission fluid (ATF).
Common Issues:
Hydropneumatic system leaks (spheres, seals), carburetor/fuel injection problems, electrical contact issues, rust in common areas (wheel arches, sills), and potential issues with the DIRAVI steering system.
Maintenance Focus:
Regular checks and maintenance of the hydropneumatic system are paramount for retaining the CX's signature ride quality and functionality. Attention to the electrical system and corrosion prevention are also key.
Hydropneumatic System Maintenance:
Emphasis on periodic replenishment of LHM fluid, checking system pressure, and replacing hydraulic spheres as they degrade to maintain optimal ride height and comfort.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approximately 4.5 - 5.0 liters (4.7 - 5.3 US quarts) for most 4-cylinder petrol engines. Diesel engines may vary. Always refer to the manual for exact capacity.
Hydropneumatic System Capacity:
The entire hydropneumatic system holds a significant amount of LHM, often around 6-7 liters (6.3-7.4 US quarts), including the main reservoir and system lines.
Citroen Innovation:
Citroën's legacy of innovative automotive design and engineering, including front-wheel drive, monocoque construction, and advanced suspension systems.
Citroen Design Philosophy:
Citroën's philosophy of integrating advanced technology with bold, distinctive styling and exceptional comfort is clearly represented in the CX.
Cx Development:
Developed as a successor to the iconic Citroën DS, inheriting its advanced technology but with a more modern, aerodynamic design and improved interior ergonomics.
Series 2 Updates:
The Series 2 (introduced in 1985) featured updated interior ergonomics, improved suspension components, and revised styling, including larger bumpers.
Production Period:
Produced from 1974 to 1997, with this manual covering the initial and most common production years (1975-1987).
Key Milestones:
Introduction of the CX 2000, CX 2200 Diesel, CX 2400, CX 25 GTi, and the significant styling and technical updates through the years, including the 'Series 2' introduction in 1985.
