🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Citroën

Model:

GS / GSA

Year:

1979

Engine Code Group:

G Series (Flat-4 Air-Cooled)

Chassis Code Group:

GS / GSA

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

A comprehensive resource for owners and mechanics of the Citroën GS and GSA, enabling DIY maintenance and repair.

Comparison:

Directly comparable to OEM service manuals used by factory-trained technicians; superior to third-party aftermarket guides in accuracy and completeness.

Features:

Step-by-step instructions, detailed illustrations, advanced troubleshooting, and search functionality for quick information retrieval.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage:

Complete factory service and repair

Page Count Estimated:

Hundreds of pages (exact count not specified but implied to be extensive)

Type:

Factory Service Repair Manual

Content Origin:

Actual genuine factory repair manuals, not third-party alternatives.

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Service Repair:

Comprehensive diagnostics, maintenance, and repair procedures for the flat-4 engine.

Transmission Service Repair:

Detailed procedures for gearbox, clutch, and drive axle maintenance and repair.

Brake System:

In-depth coverage of hydraulic systems, disc/drum components, and adjustment procedures.

Wiring Diagrams:

Complete electrical system schematics for all vehicle circuits.

Electrical System:

Troubleshooting and repair of all electrical components, including lighting, ignition, and accessories.

Suspension:

Detailed information on the hydropneumatic suspension system, including maintenance and repair.

Steering:

Procedures for the steering system, including power steering (if applicable) and alignment.

Cooling System:

Maintenance and repair of the engine's air-cooling system, including shroud and fan management.

Fuel Injection Fuel System:

Coverage of fuel delivery, injection systems (e.g., Bosch L-Jetronic), and carburetion (depending on model variant).

Emission System:

Information related to emission control devices and troubleshooting.

Heater Air Conditioning:

Repair and maintenance of climate control systems.

Engine Control System:

Diagnostics and repair of the Engine Control Unit (ECU) and associated sensors.

Chassis Body:

Bodywork, chassis repairs, panel replacement, and structural integrity.

Restraint System:

Information on seatbelts and other passive safety features.

Interior:

Trim, upholstery, dashboard, and interior component repair.

Differential Drive:

Maintenance and repair of the drivetrain components.

Axle:

Front and rear axle service and repair.

General Maintenance:

Routine checks, fluid changes, filter replacements, and general upkeep.

Troubleshooting:

Advanced diagnostic guide to identify and resolve vehicle problems.

Periodic Lubrication:

Scheduled lubrication points and recommended lubricant types.

Engine Overhaul:

Detailed procedures for engine disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly, including crankshaft, pistons, cylinders, and valve train.

Suspension Hydraulic System Service:

Specific instructions for servicing the hydropneumatic suspension, including sphere checks, fluid replacement, and pressure adjustments.

Body Panel Alignment And Repair:

Guidance on bodywork, including door, hood, and trunk alignment, and repair of common corrosion areas.

Ignition System Diagnosis:

Troubleshooting and repair of the ignition system, including distributor, coils, and spark plug wires.

Fuel Pump And Injector Service:

Detailed service procedures for fuel pumps and injection systems (if equipped).

Brake System Bleeding And Adjustment:

Step-by-step guides for brake bleeding, caliper/wheel cylinder service, and brake shoe adjustment.

Interior Trim Removal And Installation:

Guidance on the removal and installation of interior components such as the dashboard, door panels, and seating.

Depth:

Complete, factory-level detail covering all aspects of repair, maintenance, and restoration.

Detail Level:

Includes detailed substeps, notes, cautions, and warnings throughout each chapter to ensure accuracy and safety during repairs.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format Details:

High-resolution PDF, viewable and printable on all PC-based Windows and Mac operating systems.

Search Functionality:

PDF format allows for keyword searching to quickly locate specific repair information.

Printability:

Fully printable, allowing users to print individual pages, chapters, or the entire manual.

Binding:

Digital (PDF) - user prints and binds as needed, avoiding wear and tear on original.

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Flat-4 (Boxer) Air-Cooled

Engine Displacement Gs:

1015 cc (1.0 L)

Engine Displacement Gsa:

1220 cc (1.2 L)

Power Gs Approx:

56 hp (42 kW)

Power Gsa Approx:

65 hp (48 kW)

Fuel System Type:

Carburetor (e.g., Solex 34-PDSIT) or Bosch L-Jetronic Fuel Injection (depending on variant and market)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

4-Speed Manual Transaxle (standard for most models)

Transmission Type Optional:

3-Speed Hydramatic Automatic (less common)

Gearbox Layout:

Transaxle (engine and gearbox combined at the front)

📐 Dimensions

Body Styles:

2-door hatchback, 4-door hatchback

Wheelbase Approx:

2610 mm (102.8 in)

Length Approx:

4150 mm (163.4 in)

Width Approx:

1610 mm (63.4 in)

Height Approx:

1470 mm (57.9 in)

Curb Weight Approx:

950 - 1050 kg (2094 - 2315 lbs) depending on model and equipment

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test History:

While formal crash ratings as known today were not as prevalent in 1979, the GS was designed with advanced safety features for its era, including a deformable structure.

Active Safety:

Disc brakes (front), drum brakes (rear), responsive steering.

Passive Safety:

Collapsible steering column, safety glass, seatbelts.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Basic AM/FM radio with manual tuning and speaker controls. No advanced digital systems.

Driver Assistance Features:

None (features like ABS, airbags, or advanced driver aids were not standard or available).

Connectivity Features:

N/A (no provisions for mobile connectivity or integrated data services).

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Recommended every 5,000 - 7,500 km (3,000 - 4,500 miles) or annually, whichever comes first (refer to manual for specific grade).

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 - 20,000 km (9,000 - 12,000 miles) or as needed based on driving conditions.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 20,000 - 30,000 km (12,000 - 18,000 miles).

Engine Oil Specification:

Typically 15W-40 or 20W-50 mineral oil (specific API/ACEA ratings to be confirmed in manual).

Cooling System Fluid:

Air-cooled engine; no coolant is used.

Brake Fluid Specification:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 hydraulic fluid.

Transmission Oil Specification:

GL-4 Hypoid gear oil, SAE 75W/90 or 80W/90 (refer to manual for precise specification).

Suspension Spheres:

Hydropneumatic spheres can lose pressure over time, affecting ride height and comfort. Requires specialized filling and charging.

Rust:

Prone to rust, particularly around wheel arches, sills, and the rear panel.

Electrical Gremlins:

Older wiring looms can degrade, leading to intermittent electrical faults.

Carburetor Tuning:

Carburetors may require periodic adjustment and cleaning for optimal performance.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Focus:

Citroën is renowned for its innovation in automotive engineering, particularly in suspension systems and avant-garde design.

Gs Introduction:

The Citroën GS was introduced in 1970, winning the European Car of the Year award in 1971.

Gsa Introduction:

The GSA was an updated version of the GS, launched in 1979, featuring revised styling (particularly the front end with the 'GSA' specific grille and bumper) and interior improvements.

Production Period:

GS: 1970-1986; GSA: 1979-1986

Manufacturing Location:

France

🏆 Awards & Recognition

European Car Of The Year:

The original Citroën GS model won the European Car of the Year award in 1971, highlighting its innovative design and engineering for its time.