Positioning:
The Citroen AX was a compact, lightweight supermini known for its fuel efficiency and nimble handling. It competed in a crowded segment against vehicles like the Peugeot 205, Renault Clio, and Ford Fiesta.
Competitors:
Peugeot 205, Renault 5/Clio, Ford Fiesta, Volkswagen Polo, Fiat Uno, Opel/Vauxhall Corsa.
Design Philosophy:
Emphasis on lightness, aerodynamic efficiency, and cost-effective engineering, characteristic of Citroen's innovative approach.
Lightweight Construction:
A key design attribute of the AX, contributing to its agility and fuel economy.
Aerodynamics:
Designed with a focus on reducing drag for improved fuel efficiency and high-speed stability.
Covered Models:
Citroen AX (all variants)
Covered Years:
1987, 1988, 1989, 1990, 1991, 1992, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997
Engine Variants Covered:
All petrol (TU9, TU1, TU3, TU3S) and diesel (TUD3) engines within the specified year range.
Page Count:
Not Specified (Comprehensive PDF)
Manual Type:
Workshop Repair Service Manual
Scope:
Complete service manual providing instructions for repair, overhaul, maintenance, and diagnostics.
Engine Systems:
Engine repair, overhaul, tune-ups, lubrication system, cooling system, fuel system (carburetor/injection), ignition system, exhaust system
Drivetrain Systems:
Manual transmission, clutch, driveshafts, CV joints
Suspension Steering:
Front and rear suspension, steering rack, power steering (if applicable), wheel alignment
Braking Systems:
Front and rear brakes (disc/drum), hydraulic system, parking brake
Electrical Systems:
Wiring diagrams, battery, alternator, starter motor, lighting system, dashboard instrumentation, body electricals
Body Chassis:
Body panel removal and installation, interior trim, doors, windows, bumpers
Comfort Systems:
Heating and ventilation system, air conditioning (if fitted as an option).
Emissions Control:
Details on emission control systems as applicable to the specific engine and market.
Maintenance Procedures:
Routine servicing, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, belt adjustments, spark plug replacement
Repair Procedures:
Engine disassembly and reassembly, transmission overhaul, brake caliper service, suspension component replacement, electrical component diagnostics
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common faults and drivability issues
Assembly Disassembly:
Detailed instructions for removing and installing various vehicle components and assemblies
Engine Rebuild:
Yes, includes detailed procedures for engine disassembly, component inspection, reassembly, and tuning.
Transmission Repair:
Yes, covers removal, disassembly, inspection, repair, and reinstallation of manual transmissions.
Body Repair:
Includes procedures for body panel replacement, alignment, and corrosion protection.
Electrical Diagnostics:
Detailed troubleshooting guides and wiring diagrams for electrical system faults.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering all aspects from routine maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds. Assumes technician familiarity with general automotive practices.
Diagnostic Capabilities:
Includes diagnostic information for engine performance, fuel delivery, ignition systems, and basic electrical faults.
Special Tools:
References special tools required for specific adjustments and repairs, often with Citroen part numbers.
Proprietary Components:
Incorporates instructions for proprietary components and refers to specific manufacturer instructions where necessary for optimal service.
Engine Options:
Primarily inline 4-cylinder engines: 1.0L (TU9), 1.1L (TU1), 1.3L/1.4L (TU3), 1.4L GTi (TU3S), 1.4L diesel (TUD3)
Gt Engine Power:
1.4L GTi (~95 hp)
Standard Engine Power:
Varies by engine, e.g., 1.1L ~60 hp
Diesel Engine Power:
1.4L Diesel (~53 hp)
Fuel Delivery:
Carburetion (early models, e.g., Solex) and multi-point fuel injection (later models, especially GTi)
Ignition Type:
Distributor-based ignition system with electronic control (later models may have distributorless ignition).
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 10,000 km (6,000 miles) or 12 months, whichever comes first (refer to manual for exact specification).
Timing Belt Interval:
Approximately every 80,000-100,000 km (50,000-60,000 miles) for most petrol engines (critical to check and replace).
Engine Oil Viscosity:
Commonly 10W-40 or 5W-40, depending on climate and specific engine (refer to manual for exact API/ACEA ratings and capacities).
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water (check manual for Citroen specific recommendations).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid (hygroscopic, requires periodic replacement).
Transmission Fluid Type:
Manual transmission fluid (MTF), typically GL-4 specification, viscosity dependent on temperature (refer to manual).
Common Problems:
Rust on bodywork and suspension components, carburetor issues (early models), ignition system component wear, occasional electrical gremlins, clutch wear.
Diesel Specific Issues:
Glow plug issues, injector pump maintenance for the TUD3 diesel engine.
Citroen Innovation:
Citroen is renowned for innovative engineering and design, often prioritizing comfort, aerodynamics, and unique solutions, as seen in models like the DS and 2CV.
Ax Development:
Developed as a replacement for the Citroen Visa and Axel, the AX was designed to be lighter, more aerodynamic, and more modern, contributing to its fuel efficiency.
Facelift:
While the core design remained, minor aesthetic and interior updates occurred throughout its production run.
Production Locations:
Primarily manufactured in France.
