🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Citroen

Model:

CX

Year:

1979

👋 Introduction

Historical Significance:

The Citroen CX is an iconic vehicle, celebrated for its groundbreaking hydropneumatic suspension, aerodynamic design, and distinctive styling. It represented the pinnacle of automotive comfort and engineering innovation for its time.

Innovation Edge:

Competed against luxury sedans of its era, offering a unique combination of ride quality, handling, and futuristic design that set it apart from more conventional offerings.

Hydropneumatic Suspension:

Self-leveling, height-adjustable suspension system providing unparalleled ride comfort and handling characteristics. This is a primary focus of the manual's coverage.

Aerodynamic Design:

Sleek, wind-tunnel-tested bodywork contributing to a low drag coefficient, enhancing fuel efficiency and high-speed stability.

Interior Ergonomics:

Futuristic 'Comet' dashboard with unique single-spoke steering wheel and centrally located controls, designed for driver convenience.

📋 Manual Details

General Maintenance:

True

Troubleshooting:

True

Engine Service Repair:

True

Transmission Service Repair:

True

Brake System:

True

Wiring Diagram:

True

Electrical System:

True

Suspension:

True

Periodic Lubrication:

True

Steering:

True

Cooling System:

True

Fuel Injection Fuel System:

True

Emission System:

True

Engine Control System:

True

Chassis Body:

True

Restraint System:

True

Axle:

True

Estimated Page Count:

Varies by specific edition, but comprehensive manuals typically range from 500 to 1500+ pages.

Manual Type:

Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Detailed coverage of engine (1.9L, 2.0L, 2.2L petrol variants), transmission (manual and automatic), clutch, and final drive.

Suspension And Steering:

In-depth explanations of Citroen's hydropneumatic suspension system, including component diagnosis, service, and adjustment. Covers steering rack, pump, and associated hydraulics.

Brakes:

Comprehensive coverage of the front and rear braking systems, including hydraulic components, parking brake, and potential issues with the hydropneumatic brake control.

Electrical System:

Detailed electrical schematics, component location, troubleshooting guides for lighting, ignition, charging, instrumentation, and ancillary systems.

Body And Chassis:

Information on body panel repair, doors, windows, trim, and structural components. Includes chassis lubrication points and corrosion prevention.

Fuel And Emission Control:

Covers fuel delivery systems, carburetor (if applicable to specific engines) or early fuel injection, and emission control devices specific to the era.

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid level checks and top-ups, spark plug replacement, belt adjustments, tire rotation, and general inspection points.

Component Overhaul:

Step-by-step instructions for disassembling, inspecting, repairing, and reassembling major components such as the engine, transmission, brake calipers, and suspension spheres.

Troubleshooting Guides:

Diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon faults, symptom-based troubleshooting trees, and corrective actions.

Wiring Diagram Interpretation:

Detailed explanations of how to read and use the provided wiring diagrams to trace circuits and diagnose electrical issues.

Hydropneumatic System Servicing:

Critical procedures for charging spheres, adjusting ride height, servicing hydraulic fluid, and diagnosing pressure-related issues unique to the CX.

Engine Rebuild:

Detailed procedures for complete engine disassembly, inspection, measurement of wear, machining recommendations, and reassembly of all internal engine components.

Transmission Overhaul:

Step-by-step guides for the removal, disassembly, repair, and reinstallation of both manual and automatic transmissions, including gear selection and clutch mechanisms.

Body And Paint:

Guidance on bodywork repairs, rust prevention, and potentially basic painting techniques, though professional bodywork is often recommended.

Diagnostic Capabilities:

Advanced diagnostic procedures for identifying root causes of mechanical and electrical problems.

Repair Complexity:

Covers both minor repairs for the DIY enthusiast and complex overhauls requiring specialized knowledge and tools.

Specification Detail:

Includes precise technical specifications, torque values, clearances, and tolerances for all serviceable components.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Software Requirements:

Adobe Acrobat Reader or compatible PDF viewer required. WinZip or compatible unzipping utility may be needed for downloaded archives.

Platform Compatibility:

Compatible with all versions of Windows and macOS operating systems.

Print Quality:

High resolution, allowing for clear viewing and printing of diagrams and text. Optimized for digital display and printing.

Binding Type:

Digital Download (No physical binding)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options 1979:

Primarily offered with the Douvrin (Renault-derived) inline-four engines: 1983cc (2.0L) and 2175cc (2.2L).

2.0L Engine Power:

Approximately 99 hp (DIN) at 5100 rpm.

2.0L Engine Torque:

Approximately 160 Nm (118 lb-ft) at 2500 rpm.

2.2L Engine Power:

Approximately 112 hp (DIN) at 5100 rpm.

2.2L Engine Torque:

Approximately 175 Nm (129 lb-ft) at 3000 rpm.

Fuel Delivery:

Solex or Zenith carburetors for most 1979 models. Some later CX models or specific markets might have had Bosch L-Jetronic fuel injection.

Engine Code Examples:

Specific engine codes (e.g., 170B for the 2.0L) are detailed within the manual for precise part identification and service.

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

4-speed manual transmission.

Optional Transmission:

3-speed Citroen automatic transmission (often referred to as C-Matic).

Clutch Type:

Single dry plate diaphragm spring clutch.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approximately 4630 mm (182.3 inches)

Width:

Approximately 1770 mm (69.7 inches)

Height:

Approximately 1340 mm (52.8 inches) (variable due to hydropneumatic suspension)

Wheelbase:

Approximately 2900 mm (114.2 inches)

Front Track:

Approximately 1470 mm (57.9 inches)

Rear Track:

Approximately 1370 mm (53.9 inches)

Curb Weight:

Approximately 1250 - 1350 kg (2755 - 2976 lbs), depending on engine and equipment.

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Safety Era:

Safety standards of the late 1970s. While innovative in design, specific crash test ratings in modern formats are not typically available.

Active Safety Features:

Powerful disc brakes on all four wheels, precise steering, and the self-leveling suspension contributing to stable handling.

Passive Safety Features:

Reinforced body structure, padded dashboard, and seat belts. The manual will cover seat belt inspection and maintenance.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Typically a factory-installed AM/FM radio with optional cassette player. Manual covers basic radio operation and speaker replacement.

Driver Assistance Systems:

No modern electronic driver assistance systems. Focus is on the mechanical and hydraulic systems for control and comfort.

Connectivity Features:

N/A for this era.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 5,000 - 7,500 km (3,000 - 4,500 miles) or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil quality used.

Hydropneumatic Fluid Change:

LHM fluid should be checked regularly and replaced every 2-3 years or as per manual recommendations to maintain system integrity.

Engine Oil Specification:

API SF or SG rated oil, SAE 10W-40 or 20W-50 depending on climate. Check manual for exact viscosity.

Hydropneumatic Fluid:

Citroen Hydro-Pneumatic Fluid (LHM - Liquide Hydraulique Minéral), typically green in color. Do NOT use DOT 3/4/5 brake fluid.

Coolant Type:

Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.

Brake Fluid Type:

For the hydraulic fluid used in the braking system (separate from hydropneumatic), typically DOT 3 or DOT 4 is specified.

Transmission Fluid Manual:

Gear oil for manual transmission, API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90. Manual will specify exact type and capacity.

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

ATF (Automatic Transmission Fluid) Type A Suffix A or Dexron II for the automatic gearbox. Manual will detail capacity and change intervals.

Hydropneumatic System Leaks:

Leaking suspension spheres, hydraulic fluid lines, or pump seals are common issues that require specialized attention.

Electrical Gremlins:

Due to the complexity and age, electrical issues with wiring, grounds, and components can occur.

Exhaust Manifold Cracks:

Early models could be prone to exhaust manifold cracking, leading to noise and performance issues.

Hydropneumatic Suspension Ride Height:

Inconsistent ride height or failure to maintain height due to worn components or low hydraulic pressure is a common diagnostic area.

📚 Vehicle History

Citroen Innovation:

Citroen has a long history of automotive innovation, particularly with the Traction Avant, 2CV, DS, and SM, all of which influenced the development of the CX.

Cx Development:

The CX was designed as a successor to the iconic DS, aiming to modernize its features while retaining the core principles of comfort and innovation. Launched in 1974.

Production Period:

1974-1991. The 1979 model year is part of the initial 'Series 1' production.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

European Car Of The Year:

The Citroen CX was named European Car of the Year in 1975.