Positioning:
A practical and distinctive family car known for its innovative hydropneumatic suspension and aerodynamic styling.
Competitors:
Competed with other European hatchbacks and estates of its era, such as the Volkswagen Golf, Ford Escort, Peugeot 305, and Renault 11.
Suspension System:
Hydropneumatic self-leveling suspension providing exceptional ride comfort and handling, a hallmark of Citroen engineering.
Aerodynamics:
Striking, wedge-shaped, aerodynamic design penned by Marcello Gandini (of Lamborghini Miura fame).
Interior Design:
Distinctive interior with a single-spoke steering wheel and avant-garde dashboard controls.
Engine Service Repair:
Detailed procedures for all engine variants.
Transmission Service Repair:
Coverage for gearbox and drivetrain components.
Brake System:
Diagnosis, repair, and maintenance of braking systems.
Wiring Diagram:
Comprehensive electrical schematics.
Electrical System:
Troubleshooting and repair of all electrical components.
Suspension:
Detailed information on Citroen's hydropneumatic suspension.
Periodic Lubrication:
Lubrication points and schedules.
Steering:
Service and repair of steering mechanisms.
Cooling System:
Maintenance and repair of cooling components.
Fuel Injection Fuel System:
Diagnosis and repair of fuel delivery and management.
Emission System:
Details on emission control components and troubleshooting.
Heater Air Conditional:
Service for climate control systems.
Engine Control System:
ECU diagnostics and related systems.
Chassis Body:
Body repair, chassis alignment, and structural information.
Restraint System:
Information on seat belts and other safety restraints.
Interior:
Details on interior components and trim.
Differential Drive:
Service and repair of drive axle and differential units.
Axle:
Front and rear axle components and service.
General Maintenance:
Routine checks, fluid changes, filter replacements.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic guides for identifying and resolving issues.
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for mechanical and electrical repairs.
Rebuilds Refurbishments:
Comprehensive guidance for overhauling major components.
Restoration:
Information relevant to restoring the vehicle to original specifications.
Depth:
Factory-level technical information for professional technicians and advanced DIYers.
Engine Variants Available:
1.6L (XU5) petrol, 1.9L (XU9) diesel, and potentially 1.9L (XU9) petrol variants depending on market and specific 1984 model year configuration. The manual covers all styles.
Horsepower Range:
Approximately 70-90 hp for petrol engines, ~60 hp for diesel, but specific figures vary by engine variant. Manual provides precise specifications.
Torque Range:
Varies by engine. Manual details specific torque outputs for each engine.
Fuel Delivery:
Carburetor (e.g., Solex) or Fuel Injection (Bosch LE2-Jetronic, later Motronic depending on market and engine). Manual covers both systems.
Crash Test Data:
Official crash test data from the era might be limited or vary by region. The manual focuses on repair and maintenance of safety systems.
Braking System Features:
Ventilated front disc brakes, rear drum brakes. Some models may feature ABS on later iterations, but unlikely for early 1984 models.
Restraint System:
Seat belts for all occupants. Manual covers inspection and potential repair of seat belt mechanisms.
Audio System:
Basic period-appropriate radio and speaker systems. Manual covers wiring and installation/removal procedures.
ABS:
Antilock Braking System was not standard or widely available on early 1984 models. If equipped, the manual will cover its specific diagnostics.
Connectivity Features:
None by modern standards; focus is on the mechanical and electrical systems of the vehicle itself.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 5,000-7,500 miles (8,000-12,000 km) or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions. Manual provides definitive schedule.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Recommended every 30,000-50,000 miles (48,000-80,000 km). Manual specifies exact interval and fluid.
Engine Oil Specification:
Manual specifies viscosity grade (e.g., 10W-40 or 15W-50) and API service classification based on engine type.
Hydropneumatic Fluid:
Critical. The manual details the specific Citroen LDS fluid or equivalent required for the suspension and hydraulic systems.
Hydropneumatic Suspension Leaks:
Common issue over time; manual guides diagnosis and repair of spheres, seals, and hydraulic lines.
Electrical Gremlins:
Older vehicles can develop electrical issues; the detailed wiring diagrams in the manual are invaluable.
Rust Corrosion:
Like many vehicles of this era, rust can be a concern, particularly on the bodywork and sills. Manual provides bodywork repair guidance.
Citroen Innovation:
Citroen is renowned for its pioneering use of hydropneumatic suspension, front-wheel drive, and advanced aerodynamic designs, all of which are present in the BX.
Bx Introduction:
The Citroen BX was first introduced in 1982 as a successor to the GS/GSA. The 1984 model represents an early production version of this innovative car.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily produced in France (e.g., Rennes-la-Janais) and the United Kingdom (e.g., Coventry).
