Target Audience:
Professional Technicians and DIY Mechanics
Value Proposition:
Comprehensive, detailed, instantly accessible, cost-effective alternative to physical manuals
Illustration Detail:
Detailed illustrations, drawings, and photos guide through procedures; enlarged insets for detailed part examination
Instruction Clarity:
Numbered instructions, detailed sub-steps, notes, cautions, and warnings
Navigation:
Numbered table of contents for fast information retrieval
Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed wiring diagrams integrated with troubleshooting and electrical service
Engine Service And Repair:
Yes (Covers all diagnostic and repair procedures for engine)
Transmission Service And Repair:
Yes (Implied by comprehensive repair coverage)
Electrical System Diagnostics And Repair:
Yes (Includes detailed wiring diagrams, troubleshooting, and electrical service procedures)
Suspension And Steering:
Yes (Citroën BX is known for its unique hydropneumatic suspension, which is a key area for repair)
Brakes Service And Repair:
Yes (Implied by comprehensive repair coverage)
Bodywork And Chassis:
Yes (Covers refurbishment and restoration)
Fuel System Service And Repair:
Yes (Implied by comprehensive repair coverage)
Cooling System Service And Repair:
Yes (Implied by comprehensive repair coverage)
Exhaust System Service And Repair:
Yes (Implied by comprehensive repair coverage)
Routine Maintenance:
Yes (Covers service schedules and maintenance)
Troubleshooting:
Yes (Specifically mentioned as combined with electrical service)
Diagnostic Procedures:
Yes (Covered in great detail)
Rebuilding Procedures:
Yes (Covers rebuilding and refurbishment)
Restoration Guidance:
Yes (Covers restoration)
Depth Of Information:
Professional Level (Same information as professional technicians)
Accessibility For Diy:
High (Adequate data for the majority of DIY mechanics)
Engine Options 1986:
Likely includes 1.6L (1580cc) and 1.9L (1905cc) XU series petrol engines, and potentially diesel variants (e.g., XUD7 1.8L).
Horsepower Range 1986:
Approximately 70-110 hp depending on engine and fuel injection/carburetion.
Fuel System Types:
Carbureted (e.g., Solex) and Bosch L-Jetronic fuel injection likely available.
Engine Identification:
The manual will detail engine codes for specific variants (e.g., XU5, XU7, XUD7).
Crash Test Data:
Limited official data readily available for this era, manual would detail specific structural components and safety systems.
Braking System:
Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes. Some models may have featured rear discs. The manual will cover ABS if equipped.
Restraint Systems:
Seat belts, potentially inertia reel systems. Airbags were not common in European cars of this segment in 1986.
Audio System:
Basic radio and cassette player options typical for the era.
ABS:
Available on higher trims or optional, manual will detail its operation and diagnostics.
Early Electronics:
While limited by modern standards, it featured advanced electronic ignition and potentially early electronic fuel injection control.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 5,000-10,000 km or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type. Manual will provide exact figures.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Crucial for XU engines; interval typically around 60,000-80,000 km. Manual will specify the exact interval and part number.
Engine Oil Specification:
Likely 10W-40 or 15W-40 API SF/CD. Manual will specify precise viscosity and API rating.
Coolant Specification:
Ethylene glycol based coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Manual will specify type.
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid. Manual will specify the exact requirement.
Hydropneumatic Fluid:
LHM (Liquide Hydraulique Minéral) is the critical fluid for the Citroën hydropneumatic suspension. Manual will detail capacity, type, and change intervals.
Common Bx Issues:
Hydropneumatic suspension leaks (e.g., spheres, pipework), electrical gremlins, rust on bodywork, exhaust manifold cracks (petrol engines), minor cooling system issues.
Citroen Innovation:
Citroën is known for pioneering innovative automotive technologies, most notably its hydropneumatic suspension systems.
Bx Development:
The BX was designed by Marcello Gandini of Bertone and featured a distinctive, aerodynamic design. It was a key model in Citroën's lineup during the 1980s and early 90s.
Production Years:
1982-1994
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily France, but also assembled in other countries.
