🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Citroën

Model:

CX

Year:

1988

Generation Designation:

Series 2

Chassis Code:

XM7P (for 2.0 L)

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

Targets owners and independent mechanics seeking in-depth knowledge and repair capability for the iconic Citroën CX, emphasizing self-sufficiency and cost savings.

Competitors:

Likely competes with other workshop manuals covering the Citroën CX, potentially including official Citroën documentation (though often scarce in English) and aftermarket publications.

Unique Selling Points:

Focus on DIY repair, cost savings, and empowering owners with technical knowledge. Direct download for immediate access and convenience.

Target Audience:

Citroën CX owners, classic car enthusiasts, automotive technicians, DIY mechanics, and repair shops specializing in French or classic vehicles.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Full Service, Repair, Maintenance, Troubleshooting

Secondary Coverage:

Electrical Wiring Diagrams, Chassis and Bodywork, Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Fuel System, Engine Management, Emission Control

Estimated Page Count:

1000+

Type:

Comprehensive Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Service Repair:

Detailed procedures for disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly of all engine components, including cylinder head, block, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, valves, and timing system. Covers engine management and control systems.

Transmission Service Repair:

In-depth instructions for manual and automatic transmission service, including clutch, gearbox, torque converter, and final drive. Covers fluid changes and internal component repair.

Brake System:

Comprehensive coverage of hydraulic brake systems, including master cylinder, brake boosters (likely hydraulic for CX), calipers, wheel cylinders, brake lines, and parking brake. Includes diagnostic procedures and repair techniques.

Electrical System:

Detailed explanation of the vehicle's electrical system, including battery, charging system (alternator), starting system, lighting, instrumentation, and auxiliary systems. Includes troubleshooting guides.

Wiring Diagrams:

Complete and detailed electrical wiring diagrams for all vehicle circuits, essential for diagnosing and repairing electrical faults. Likely includes component location diagrams.

Suspension:

Extensive coverage of Citroën's renowned hydropneumatic suspension system. Details on fluid levels, pressure regulation, spheres, accumulators, hydraulic pumps, and repair procedures for height correctors and actuators.

Steering:

Service and repair procedures for the hydraulic power steering system, including pump, steering rack, hoses, and fluid. Covers alignment specifications.

Cooling System:

Detailed procedures for radiator, fan, thermostat, water pump, and coolant hose servicing. Covers leak detection and repair, and coolant type recommendations.

Fuel Injection Fuel System:

Coverage of the fuel delivery system, including fuel pump, lines, filters, and injectors. For models with fuel injection, details on the injection system (e.g., Bosch L-Jetronic or K-Jetronic) and its components are provided.

Emission System:

Information on emission control systems, catalytic converters, oxygen sensors, and related components, along with diagnostic and repair guidance for emissions compliance.

Chassis Body:

Body panel repair, structural component maintenance, door mechanisms, glass replacement, and interior trim removal and installation procedures.

Restraint System:

Information on seat belts and any early airbag systems if applicable to the 1988 model. Procedures for inspection and replacement.

Axle:

Service and repair of front and rear axles, including CV joints and wheel bearings. Covers differential maintenance if applicable.

General Maintenance:

Regular maintenance tasks such as oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, lubrication points, and tire rotation.

Troubleshooting:

Systematic diagnostic procedures for identifying and resolving common and complex vehicle problems, often presented in a 'symptom-cause-solution' format.

Periodic Lubrication:

Specific lubrication schedules and recommendations for all grease points, chassis components, and moving parts to ensure longevity and smooth operation.

Refurbishing Renovating:

Guidance on restoring components and systems to optimal condition, potentially including procedures for overhaul and rebuilding.

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering from basic scheduled maintenance to complex component overhauls and detailed electrical diagnostics. Suitable for both DIY enthusiasts and professional technicians.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format:

PDF

Readability:

Requires Adobe PDF Reader

Compression:

Likely compressed (e.g., .zip/.rar) requiring WinZip or similar software.

Quality:

Digital download; print quality dependent on user's printer. Content accuracy is the primary focus.

Binding:

N/A (Digital Format)

Paper:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Family:

Douvrin (PSA XK series)

Engine Configuration:

Inline-4, front-mounted, transverse

Displacement Liters:

2.0 L (1995 cc)

Bore X Stroke:

93.0 mm x 73.7 mm

Compression Ratio:

8.75:1 (typical for 2.0L)

Horsepower Ps Rpm:

~106-110 PS (DIN) at 5500 rpm (for 2.0L)

Torque Nm Rpm:

~161 Nm (119 lb-ft) at 3250 rpm (for 2.0L)

Top Speed Kph:

~175-180 kph (109-112 mph) for 2.0L models

Fuel Delivery:

Carbureted (e.g., Solex 34-34 PDSIT) or Fuel Injection (e.g., Bosch L-Jetronic or K-Jetronic on higher trims/later models).

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline (Octane rating as specified by manufacturer)

Engine Options:

1.8 L (1775 cc), 2.2 L (2165 cc), 2.5 L Turbo Diesel (Indenor XD3), 2.5 L Turbocharged Petrol (PRV V6 - less common on 1988 models, more on later Series 2 or GTI variants).

🔧 Transmission

Type:

4-speed Manual (often with overdrive on higher gears)

Type:

3-speed Automatic (BorgWarner 35 or similar)

Fluid Type:

Manual: Hypoid gear oil SAE 75W/90 or 80W/90. Automatic: Dexron II (or equivalent ATF).

📐 Dimensions

Length Mm:

~4660 mm (183.5 in)

Width Mm:

~1770 mm (69.7 in)

Height Mm:

~1370 mm (53.9 in)

Wheelbase Mm:

~2900 mm (114.2 in)

Curb Weight Kg:

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

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Results:

No standardized crash test data comparable to modern vehicles exists for the 1988 CX. However, its advanced hydropneumatic suspension provided a unique ride and handling characteristic.

Active Safety:

Hydraulic power steering, powerful hydraulic disc brakes on all wheels, self-leveling suspension.

Passive Safety:

Reinforced safety cage, energy-absorbing steering column, padded dashboard, seat belts (likely front inertia-reel).

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Likely a basic AM/FM radio with cassette player. Optional higher-end systems might have been available.

Driver Aids:

Hydropneumatic suspension's self-leveling and ride height control are significant technological features. Power steering contributes to ease of driving.

Connectivity Features:

Limited to basic power outlets for accessories. No modern connectivity options like Bluetooth or USB.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change:

Every 5,000 - 7,500 km (3,000 - 5,000 miles) or annually. Check manual for specific interval based on driving conditions.

Transmission Fluid Change:

Manual: Check as needed, change if contaminated. Automatic: Every 30,000 - 40,000 km (20,000 - 25,000 miles).

Hydropneumatic Fluid Check:

Inspect LHS 239 (Hydraulic Fluid) level and condition regularly, typically during every service. Consult manual for specific top-up procedures and intervals.

Spark Plugs:

Replace every 20,000 - 30,000 km (12,000 - 18,000 miles).

Engine Oil Type:

API SG or SH, SAE 10W-40 or 15W-50 (depending on ambient temperature). Consult manual for exact specification.

Coolant Type:

Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze with corrosion inhibitors, mixed 50/50 with distilled water. Ensure it meets PSA specifications if possible.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4.

Hydropneumatic Fluid:

Citroën LHS 239 (or equivalent mineral-based hydraulic fluid, e.g., some Michelin hydraulic fluids). NEVER use LHM (green fluid) as it is incompatible.

Hydropneumatic System:

Leaking spheres, worn O-rings in hydraulic actuators, failing hydraulic pump, clogged height corrector valves. Requires specialized knowledge and tools for repair.

Rust:

Susceptible to rust, particularly in wheel arches, sills, and around the rear subframe mounting points. Regular inspection and underbody treatment are crucial.

Electrical Gremlins:

Aging wiring looms and poor grounding can lead to intermittent electrical faults, particularly with lighting and instrumentation.

Engine Carburetor Issues:

Carburetors may require periodic adjustment or rebuilding due to wear or fuel degradation. Fuel injection systems can have issues with fuel pressure regulators or injectors.

📚 Vehicle History

Citroen Legacy:

Citroën is renowned for its innovation in automotive engineering, particularly with its avant-garde designs and pioneering use of hydropneumatic suspension, front-wheel drive, and aerodynamic styling. The CX embodies this heritage.

Cx Development:

The CX, launched in 1974, was designed as the successor to the iconic DS. It continued Citroën's philosophy of comfort, safety, and avant-garde design, featuring a highly aerodynamic shape and the advanced hydropneumatic system.

Series 2 Updates:

The Series 2 update (introduced in 1982) brought styling revisions, including improved bumpers, a revised dashboard, power steering as standard on most models, and updated engines. The 1988 model falls within this Series 2 iteration.

Production Period:

1974 – 1997

Manufacturing Locations:

France ( principaliy Rennes-Haut, later Aulnay-sous-Bois) and selected other countries.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Industry Accolades:

The Citroën CX was widely recognized for its innovative design and unparalleled comfort, often lauded by automotive journalists and critics of its era. It was voted 'Car of the Year' by various publications in its early years.

Comfort And Handling:

Consistently rated exceptionally high for ride comfort and handling due to its advanced hydropneumatic suspension, which isolated occupants from road imperfections.