Segment:
Light Hatchback / City Car
Target Market:
Urban commuting, economy-focused drivers.
Key Competitors:
Peugeot 205, Renault 5/Supercinq, Fiat Uno, Volkswagen Polo, Ford Fiesta.
Design Philosophy:
Lightweight construction, aerodynamic styling, fuel efficiency, compact dimensions for urban maneuverability.
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides technician-level repair and maintenance information, enabling cost savings and self-sufficiency for owners.
Model Years Covered:
1987-1997
Model Variants Covered:
All Models (e.g., Hatchback, GT, GTi, diesel variants)
Estimated Page Count:
High (Detailed, comprehensive coverage implies significant page count, likely over 1000 pages when compiled across all aspects).
Type:
Service and Repair Workshop Manual
Delivery Format:
PDF (Digital Download)
Powertrain:
Engine Mechanical, Fuel System (carbureted and injected), Ignition System, Exhaust System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Diesel Engine specific components.
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), Steering System, Brakes (hydraulic, ABS if applicable), Wheels and Tires, Drivetrain (FWD, gearbox specifics).
Electrical:
Battery, Charging System, Starting System, Lighting System, Ignition System, Instrumentation, Wiper/Washer System, Horn, Accessories, Wiring Schematics for all circuits.
Body:
Body Panels, Doors, Hood, Trunk/Hatch, Bumpers, Interior Trim, Glass, Seating, HVAC System, Body Sealing.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance (oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks), brake pad/shoe replacement, belt replacement, spark plug replacement, air filter replacement.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides based on symptoms, diagnostic fault codes (if applicable), electrical system diagnostics, fuel system diagnostics, engine performance diagnostics.
Repair:
Engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, suspension component replacement, brake system repair, electrical component repair/replacement, body panel repair, interior component repair.
Installation:
Component replacement procedures (e.g., alternator, starter motor, water pump, clutch), accessory installation.
Depth:
Comprehensive and highly detailed, factory-level specifications and procedures for all major repair and maintenance tasks.
Target Audience:
Professional Technicians and Advanced DIY Mechanics
Compatibility:
All Windows PC versions (XP, Vista 32/64, 7, 8, 10, 11), MAC Computers, Tablets
Software Requirement:
Adobe PDF Reader
Printability:
All pages are printable
Image Enhancement:
Images can be blown up and printed in enlarged copies
Binding:
Digital Download (No physical binding)
Paper Type:
Not Applicable (Digital Format)
Engine Codes And Variants:
TU series engines (TU9, TU1, TU3) - 1.0L, 1.1L, 1.3L petrol. XUD series diesel engines (XUD7) - 1.8L diesel.
Displacement Petrol:
Approx. 954cc (TU9), 1124cc (TU1), 1360cc (TU3).
Displacement Diesel:
Approx. 1769cc (XUD7)
Horsepower Range:
Approx. 45 hp (TU9) to 100 hp (GTi) for petrol; Approx. 60 hp for diesel.
Torque Range:
Varies by engine, e.g., TU1 around 85-90 Nm, TU3 around 110-120 Nm.
Petrol Variants:
Carburetor (e.g., Weber 30/34 DAT), Single-point or Multi-point Fuel Injection (depending on model and year).
Diesel Variants:
Indirect Injection with Rotary or Inline Injection Pump.
Timing Belt Replacement Interval:
Typically 80,000 - 120,000 km or 5-6 years, depending on engine variant and manufacturer recommendations (refer to manual for exact spec).
Type:
5-speed Manual Transaxle
Type:
3-speed Automatic (less common, availability varied by market and engine).
Gear Ratios:
Specific ratios detailed in the manual for each engine/transmission combination.
Fluid Type:
API GL-4 Hypoid Gear Oil (e.g., SAE 75W-90 or SAE 80W-90, specific viscosity based on ambient temperature and manufacturer spec).
Fluid Capacity:
Approx. 2.0 - 2.3 liters (refer to manual for exact capacity).
Crash Test Performance:
Early models were basic; later revisions incorporated some safety enhancements. Specific Euro NCAP ratings for this era are scarce for the AX, but it was generally considered a basic vehicle in its class for its time. The manual will detail passive safety features.
Braking System:
Front Disc Brakes, Rear Drum Brakes. ABS was an optional or later-model feature on some variants (e.g., GTi).
Seatbelts:
Standard front seatbelts, optional rear seatbelts (often lap belts or basic three-point belts depending on market and trim).
Structure:
Reinforced passenger cell, crumple zones (details on construction and repair in manual).
Audio System:
Basic factory-fitted radio/cassette player, often with 2-4 speakers. Optional upgrade for higher trim levels.
ABS:
Optional on higher trims or later models.
Power Steering:
Optional on most models, standard on some higher performance variants.
Connectivity Features:
Minimal by modern standards; primarily focused on the basic vehicle functions. No integrated Bluetooth or USB connectivity from factory.
Oil Change:
Typically 10,000-15,000 km or 12 months, depending on engine and oil used (refer to manual for specific recommendations).
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 20,000-30,000 km or as needed based on driving conditions.
Engine Oil:
API SF/SG or ACEA A1/A2/A3. Viscosity typically 10W-40 or 5W-40 depending on climate. Capacity varies by engine size (approx. 3.0-4.0 liters).
Coolant:
Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze/coolant with corrosion inhibitors. Mixture ratio typically 50/50 with distilled water.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (refer to manual for specific type). High boiling point, hygroscopic.
Common Problems:
Carburetor issues (gumming, adjustment), ignition coil failure, radiator leaks, exhaust system corrosion, clutch wear, suspension component wear (ball joints, bushings), electrical connection corrosion, rust on bodywork (wheel arches, sills).
Diesel Specific Issues:
Glow plug issues, potential for head gasket failure under severe stress, injection pump sealing.
Citroen Philosophy:
Known for innovation, comfort (hydropneumatic suspension on larger models), and quirky design. The AX represented a move towards more conventional, lightweight economy cars for Citroën.
Facelifts:
Minor cosmetic updates and feature enhancements throughout its production run (e.g., interior revisions, improved engine management).
Discontinuation Year:
1997
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily France (Aulnay-sous-Bois plant), potentially other PSA plants.
Production Volume:
Significant global production numbers, popular in Europe.
Car Of The Year Contender:
While not a 'Car of the Year' winner, it was a highly popular and competitive model in its segment during its production run.
Consumer Reports General:
Praised for its economy, agility, and low running costs, but criticized for basic interior materials and sometimes stiff ride in earlier models.
Safety Certifications:
Met prevailing safety standards of its era for European markets. Specific detailed certifications beyond basic homologation are not typically highlighted in this segment.