Vehicle Segment:
Compact to mid-size hatchback and estate (station wagon)
Design Philosophy:
Innovative, aerodynamic, and comfortable, with a focus on advanced technology for its era.
Key Competitors:
Volkswagen Golf, Ford Escort, Opel Kadett/Vauxhall Astra, Peugeot 309, Renault 9/11.
Distinctive Features:
Aerodynamic wedge-shaped design by Marcello Gandini, hydropneumatic suspension system, innovative interior layout.
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, lubrication system, cooling system, fuel system, exhaust system, ignition system, engine control unit (ECU) diagnostics.
Transmission:
Manual and automatic transmission disassembly, assembly, repair, and adjustment. Clutch operation and service.
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive system, drive shafts, constant velocity (CV) joints, differential.
Suspension And Steering:
Citroën's Hydropneumatic suspension system (spheres, accumulators, hydraulic fluid, pump, rams, height correctors), steering system, power steering.
Brakes:
Hydraulic brake system, brake discs, pads, calipers, master cylinder, brake lines, parking brake, anti-lock braking system (ABS) if equipped.
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter motor), lighting system, gauges, switches, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams for all circuits.
Body And Chassis:
Body construction, exterior panels, doors, windows, interior trim, seats, bumpers, corrosion prevention.
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system components and service procedures.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-ups, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common problems, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, electrical system fault finding.
Repair Rebuild:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for component disassembly, cleaning, inspection, repair, and reassembly.
Diagnostics:
Engine diagnostic codes, electrical system testing, component testing procedures.
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive, covering basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including electrical system diagnostics and body repair.
Engine Type 1985:
Inline-4 Cylinder, OHC (Overhead Camshaft)
Displacement 1985 1.6:
1580 cc (1.6 Liters)
Engine Code 1.6 Common:
XU5 (specific variants may exist)
Horsepower 1.6 Approx:
90 PS (approximately 89 bhp)
Torque 1.6 Approx:
130 Nm (approximately 96 lb-ft)
Fuel System 1.6:
Carburetor (e.g., Solex 34-34)
Engine Type 1985 2.0:
Inline-4 Cylinder, OHC
Displacement 1985 2.0:
1905 cc (2.0 Liters)
Engine Code 2.0 Common:
XU9
Horsepower 2.0 Approx:
115-125 PS (approximately 113-123 bhp) for carbureted models
Fuel System 2.0:
Carburetor or Bosch L-Jetronic Fuel Injection (depending on trim)
Top Speed 1.6 Approx:
175 km/h (approximately 109 mph)
Acceleration 0 60 Mph 1.6 Approx:
11-12 seconds
Infotainment Features 1985:
Basic AM/FM radio, cassette player (optional), analogue gauges for speed, RPM, fuel, temperature.
Driver Assistance 1985:
Limited; power steering, some models offered central locking or electric windows.
Oil Change Interval Approx:
Every 7,500-10,000 km (4,600-6,000 miles) or annually, whichever comes first.
Major Service Interval Approx:
Every 30,000-40,000 km (18,000-25,000 miles), including timing belt replacement if applicable.
Engine Oil Grade Common:
10W-40 or 15W-50 API SF/SG (refer to manual for exact specifications based on engine variant and climate).
Hydraulic Fluid Type:
LHM (Liquide Hydraulique Minéral) - Green fluid is critical for suspension and brakes. Never use ATF or brake fluid.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze mixed with distilled water (typically 50/50 ratio).
Hydropneumatic Suspension:
Hydropneumatic system component wear (spheres losing pressure, leaks in rams or hoses), pump wear, fluid contamination.
Engine Cooling:
Overheating due to fan switch issues or pump problems, leaks in cooling system.
Electrical System:
Corrosion in connectors, aging wiring harnesses, intermittent faults in switches and relays.
Bodywork:
Rust, particularly on sills, wheel arches, and subframes, due to age and environmental exposure.
Citroen Brand Focus:
Known for avant-garde design, innovative engineering, and comfort-focused suspension systems.
Bx Design Influence:
Designed by Marcello Gandini of Bertone, responsible for iconic designs like the Lamborghini Miura and Countach.
Bx Facelifts Updates:
Received significant updates in 1987 (BX 'Series 2') with revised styling, improved interior, and upgraded engines.
Production Period:
1982 - 1994
Production Locations:
France (Aulnay-sous-Bois), Spain, Slovenia, United Kingdom.
