Class:
Small family car / hatchback
Key Competitors:
Volkswagen Golf, Ford Escort, Peugeot 309, Opel/Vauxhall Astra/Kadett, Fiat Uno
Design Philosophy:
Aerodynamic, spacious, innovative (especially the hydropneumatic suspension)
Unique Selling Points:
Hydropneumatic self-levelling suspension, distinctive wedge-shaped styling, comfortable ride, spacious interior for its class
Markets Covered:
Global (Europe primarily)
Estimated Pages:
Varies (typically 500+ pages for a comprehensive workshop manual)
Type:
Workshop Service Repair Manual
Language:
English (typical for widely distributed manuals, though original languages may vary)
Powertrain:
Engine (mechanical, fuel, ignition, cooling, lubrication), Transmission (manual, automatic), Drivetrain (front-wheel drive, differentials)
Chassis:
Suspension (hydropneumatic front and rear, specific to Citroën), Steering, Brakes (hydraulic, ABS if equipped), Wheels and Tires
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, Lighting, Instruments, Power accessories, Ignition system, Starting and Charging system
Body:
Exterior body panels, Interior trim, Doors, Windows, Seats, Bumpers
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, Oil changes, Filter replacements, Fluid checks and top-ups, Spark plug replacement, Belt replacement
Repair:
Engine overhaul, Transmission repair, Brake system servicing, Suspension component replacement, Electrical component diagnosis and repair, Body panel repair
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, Symptom-based diagnostics, Fault code interpretation (if applicable to the era)
Adjustments:
Carburetor/injection adjustments, Valve clearance adjustments, Clutch adjustment, Handbrake adjustment
Depth:
Comprehensive (from basic fluid checks to complete engine and transmission rebuilds)
Engine 1 4L:
1.4L (XY7/XY8 series), 60-70 HP
Engine 1 6L:
1.6L (XU5 series), 80-90 HP
Engine 1 9L:
1.9L (XU9 series), 90-130 HP (depending on variant, e.g., fuel injection, GTI)
Engine 16V:
1.6L (16V, XU5M engine) or 1.9L (16V, XU9J4 engine), 105-160 HP
Top Speed Range:
Approx. 150-200+ km/h (93-124+ mph), depending on engine
Induction Options:
Carburetor (Solex, Weber), Multi-point Fuel Injection (Bosch LE2-Jetronic, Motronic)
Transmission Type Standard:
4-speed Manual (early models), 5-speed Manual (later models)
Transmission Type Optional:
3-speed Automatic (ZF, typically on 1.6L and 1.9L models)
Clutch Type:
Single dry plate, hydraulically operated
Euro Ncap Rating:
Not applicable (pre-Euro NCAP era)
Braking System:
Hydraulic, front disc brakes, rear drum brakes (GTI models often had four-wheel discs), optional ABS
Seatbelts:
3-point front seatbelts, 2-point rear seatbelts (later models often had 3-point rear)
Body Structure:
Reinforced safety cage, crumple zones
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 5,000-7,500 miles (8,000-12,000 km) or 6-12 months (refer to manual for exact intervals per engine/oil type).
Timing Belt Interval:
Variable, often 60,000-80,000 miles (96,000-128,000 km) for XU engines (crucial to follow manual).
Engine Oil Type:
API SG/SH or ACEA A2/A3, viscosity typically 10W-40 or 5W-40 depending on climate and oil type (refer to manual).
Hydropneumatic Fluid:
Citroën LHM Plus (Green fluid), crucial for suspension and brake operation. Not interchangeable with standard hydraulic fluid.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Specific type may vary, check manual.
Suspension Sphere Wear:
Hydropneumatic spheres can lose pressure over time, affecting ride quality and requiring recharging or replacement.
Electrical Gremlins:
Older wiring can degrade, leading to intermittent electrical faults, especially in lighting and ancillary systems.
Rust Progression:
Common on older French cars, particularly wheel arches, sills, and tailgate. Requires careful inspection and treatment.
Hydropneumatic Fluid Leaks:
Hoses and seals within the hydropneumatic system can develop leaks, impacting ride height and brake pressure.
Citroen Legacy:
Known for avant-garde engineering, particularly in suspension and aerodynamics (e.g., DS, SM, GS).
Bx Development:
Designed by Marcello Gandini of Bertone, succeeded the Citroën GS/GSA, introduced the hydropneumatic system to a lower market segment.
Facelifts:
Significant facelift in 1986, improving interior ergonomics, styling (smoother lines), and introducing new engines (XU series).
Production Locations:
France (mainly Rennes-la-Janais), also produced in Spain and Slovenia.