Positioning:
The Citroen CX was a flagship model, positioned as a premium, technologically advanced executive car, offering a unique blend of comfort, style, and innovative engineering.
Competitors:
Competed with other large executive cars of its era, such as the Mercedes-Benz W123, BMW E23, Peugeot 604, and Jaguar XJ.
Hydropneumatic Suspension:
Citroen's renowned hydropneumatic suspension system, providing unparalleled ride comfort and self-leveling capabilities.
Aerodynamics:
Distinctive, aerodynamic wedge-shaped styling, contributing to its low drag coefficient and distinctive appearance.
Interior Design:
Futuristic and driver-oriented interior, featuring the signature 'mushroom' steering wheel and a well-designed dashboard.
Diras:
Directional Indicator and Rev-Analyse System (DIRAS) on early models.
Applicable Years:
1975, 1976, 1977, 1978, 1979, 1980, 1981, 1982, 1983, 1984, 1985, 1986, 1987
Body Styles Covered:
Berline (Saloon), Familiale (Estate/Station Wagon), GTI, CX-CX 25 GTI Turbo
Estimated Page Count:
Likely extensive, typical of comprehensive workshop manuals, often exceeding 500 pages
Type:
Workshop Service Repair Manual
Engine:
Detailed coverage of engine disassembly, assembly, diagnostics, repair, and tuning for various engine variants.
Transmission:
Comprehensive coverage of manual and automatic transmission repair, overhaul, and adjustment procedures.
Hydropneumatic Suspension:
In-depth coverage of Citroen's signature hydropneumatic suspension system, including component testing, repair, and fluid service.
Steering:
Detailed procedures for power steering system maintenance, repair, and component replacement.
Brakes:
Complete coverage of brake system components, including hydraulic system, discs, pads, calipers, and parking brake.
Fuel System:
Detailed information on fuel delivery, carburetion (Zenith, Solex) or early fuel injection systems (Bosch L-Jetronic for later models), fuel pumps, and lines.
Ignition System:
Comprehensive guidance on ignition system components, timing, spark plugs, coils, and distributors.
Electrical System:
Extensive coverage of the vehicle's electrical system, including wiring diagrams, lighting, starting and charging systems, instrumentation, and control modules.
Body And Chassis:
Procedures for bodywork, panel replacement, interior trim, glass, and structural component repairs.
Climate Control:
Information on HVAC system servicing, including refrigerant handling, blower motor, and control mechanisms.
Exhaust System:
Details on exhaust manifold, catalytic converter (if applicable for later models), mufflers, and pipes.
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance procedures, service intervals, fluid level checks, and filter replacements.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts and troubleshooting guides for common problems across all vehicle systems.
Repair And Overhaul:
Step-by-step instructions for the repair and overhaul of all major and minor vehicle components.
Component Removal And Installation:
Detailed instructions for removing and installing virtually every component of the vehicle.
Technical Specifications:
Inclusion of critical technical data such as torque specifications, clearances, and fluid capacities.
Special Tool Identification:
Identification and illustration of any specialized tools required for specific adjustments or repairs.
Depth:
Comprehensive, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts, covering everything from routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds.
Engines Offered:
Primarily offered with 4-cylinder petrol engines, including the Douvrin 'J-Type' derived engines. Variants include 1.8L (CX 20), 2.0L (CX 22, CX 20), and 2.2L (CX 22 TRS). Later models featured 2.5L engines, including turbocharged variants (CX 25 GTI Turbo).
Horsepower Range:
Approximately 90 hp to 160 hp depending on engine displacement and turbocharging.
Torque Range:
Varies by engine, with later 2.5L turbo models offering significantly more torque.
Fuel Delivery:
Carburetion for most early models (Zenith, Solex twin-choke), with electronic fuel injection (Bosch L-Jetronic) introduced on higher-spec models like the CX 25 GTi.
Configuration:
Inline-4 cylinder, transversely mounted.
System:
Liquid-cooled, with a front-mounted radiator and fan.
Era Compliance:
Reflects safety standards of the 1970s and 1980s, with advancements over previous generations but lacking modern active safety systems.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) became available on later, higher-specification models.
Power Steering:
Hydraulic power steering for improved maneuverability and reduced driver effort.
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts standard in the front, often lap belts in the rear depending on market and year.
Body Structure:
Designed with a strong unibody construction typical for its era.
Headlights:
Aerodynamic headlight covers, often integrated into the overall design.
Radio:
Optional period-correct radios, often Blaupunkt or Clarion, with basic AM/FM reception.
Speakers:
Typically two or four speakers.
Cruise Control:
Available as an option on higher trim levels and later models.
Power Windows:
Standard on most models, sometimes with memory functions on higher trims.
Features:
Limited to period-appropriate technologies; no modern connectivity features like Bluetooth or USB.
Oil Change:
Typically every 5,000 - 10,000 km (3,000 - 6,000 miles), or annually, depending on usage and oil type.
Tune Up:
Recommended every 15,000 - 20,000 km (9,000 - 12,000 miles), involving spark plugs, ignition timing, carburetor/injection adjustments.
Hydropneumatic Fluid:
Regular checks and potential flushing/replacement of hydropneumatic fluid (LHM - Liquide Hydraulique Minéral) are crucial, typically recommended every 50,000-60,000 km.
Engine Oil:
API SE/SF, SAE 10W-40 or 15W-40 recommended, depending on climate. Check manual for exact specifications.
Coolant:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze mixed with distilled water (typically 50/50).
Transmission Fluid Manual:
GL-4 or GL-5 hypoid gear oil, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron III or equivalent automatic transmission fluid (ATF).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid.
Hydropneumatic Fluid:
Citroen LHM (Green mineral oil), NOT to be confused with LHM Plus (usually red).
Hydropneumatic System:
Leaking spheres, worn seals in hydraulic regulators, pump wear, and calibration issues with the suspension height.
Electrical System:
Corrosion in connectors, aging wiring harnesses, and issues with the central electrical unit (often referred to as the 'black box').
Rust:
Susceptible to rust, especially in the sills, wheel arches, and underbody, common for cars of this era.
Cooling System:
Potential for radiator blockages and fan failures.
Interior Wear:
Deterioration of dashboard materials, seat fabrics, and headlining.
Body Panel Alignment:
Panel gaps can sometimes be inconsistent, particularly after repairs or due to age.
Heritage:
Citroen has a long history of innovation and distinctive automotive design, known for pioneering technologies like hydropneumatic suspension and front-wheel drive.
Predecessor:
Succeeded the iconic Citroen DS.
Successor:
Succeeded by the Citroen XM.
Design Philosophy:
Continued Citroen's tradition of comfort, advanced technology, and unique styling.
Production Years:
1974-1992 (CX model range).
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily manufactured in France.
