🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Citroën

Model:

CX

Year:

1985

Chassis Code:

Type 353

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Executive/Luxury Sedan

Usp:

Revolutionary hydropneumatic suspension, aerodynamic design, and innovative interior.

Competitors 1985:

Mercedes-Benz W124, BMW 5 Series (E28), Peugeot 605 (later), Rover SD1.

Design Philosophy:

Comfort, aerodynamics, and advanced technology.

Target Audience:

Discerning drivers seeking comfort, advanced engineering, and a distinctive driving experience.

📋 Manual Details

Geographic Coverage:

Global (primarily European market focus)

Model Variants Covered:

All 1985 CX variants, including sedan, estate (break), and potentially GTI/TGI models.

Estimated Page Count:

Varies by specific publication, typically 500-1000+ pages for comprehensive factory-level manuals.

Type:

Full Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Digital Format:

PDF

Print Capability:

Full Printable

Delivery Method:

Instant Download

Software Requirements:

Adobe PDF Reader, WinRAR

Os Compatibility:

All Versions of Windows & Mac

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system.

Drivetrain:

Transmission (manual and automatic), clutch, driveshafts, differential, axles.

Chassis:

Hydropneumatic suspension system (all components, spheres, pumps, fluid), steering system, braking system (including brake pressure regulator and front/rear discs).

Electrical:

Complete electrical system, starting and charging system, lighting, instrumentation, switches, relays, fuses, wiring diagrams for all circuits.

Body And Interior:

Body panels, doors, windows, seats, trim, HVAC system (heating, ventilation, air conditioning), body repair procedures.

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, tune-up procedures.

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting guides for common and uncommon problems, diagnostic procedures for all major systems.

Repair:

Detailed step-by-step repair procedures for all components, including engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, suspension repairs, electrical component replacement.

Rebuild Refurbish:

Procedures for rebuilding engines, transmissions, hydraulic systems, and other major components.

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering factory-level technical information suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts.

Diagnostic Tools:

Information on using diagnostic tools and techniques relevant to the 1985 era, including multimeter usage and circuit tracing.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format:

PDF

Printability:

High-resolution, suitable for printing individual pages or the entire manual.

Binding:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Quality:

N/A (Digital Download)

Searchability:

Likely text-searchable within PDF for quick information retrieval.

Illustration Quality:

Detailed illustrations, drawings, and photos, with enlarged insets for clarity.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code Examples:

Douvrin/PSA XM series (e.g., ZDJL for diesel, ZDJD for turbo diesel, ZPJ for petrol).

Engine Displacement Petrol:

1.9L (1905cc) and 2.0L (1995cc) OHV 4-cylinder; 2.3L (2304cc) OHV 4-cylinder.

Engine Displacement Diesel:

2.1L (2135cc) OHV 4-cylinder (Naturally Aspirated and Turbocharged).

Horsepower Range:

Approximately 90 hp (1.9L petrol) to 120 hp (2.3L petrol and Turbo Diesel).

Torque Range:

Varies by engine, with diesel variants offering stronger low-end torque.

Carburetion Injection:

Carburetor (e.g., Weber, Solex) on lower-spec petrol engines; Bosch L-Jetronic fuel injection on higher-spec petrol engines (e.g., GTI models); Diesel injection pumps.

Type:

Liquid-cooled

Type:

Distributor-based ignition system (points or electronic depending on specific variant).

🔧 Transmission

Type:

4-speed or 5-speed manual transmission.

Type:

Citroën's own 3-speed or 4-speed automatic transmission (hydraulique).

Clutch:

Hydraulically operated single dry plate clutch.

Gear Ratios:

Specific ratios vary by engine and transmission type; detailed in manual.

Manual Transmission Fluid:

Refer to manual for specific GL-4 specification, e.g., Michelin MB235.5 or equivalent.

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Dexron II or equivalent.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 4.64 m (Sedan) / 4.74 m (Estate)

Width:

Approx. 1.78 m

Height:

Approx. 1.36 m (Sedan) / 1.48 m (Estate)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1,300 - 1,500 kg, depending on engine and equipment.

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Testing:

Limited formal crash test data by modern standards; designed with energy-absorbing zones and robust passenger cell for its era.

Braking System:

Hydraulically assisted disc brakes front and rear; Brake pressure regulator (DS-2).

Suspension Stability:

Hydropneumatic self-leveling suspension contributes to stability and consistent ride height.

Seatbelts:

Standard fitment, likely inertia-reel types.

Body Structure:

Designed with a strong central safety cage.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Period-appropriate radio/cassette player, often with optional speakers.

Cruise Control:

Available as an option on higher-spec models.

Power Steering:

Hydraulic power steering, a key feature contributing to ease of driving.

Features:

Limited by modern standards; focus on integrated systems for comfort and control.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change:

Typically every 5,000 - 7,500 km or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil specification.

Filter Replacement:

Oil filter with every oil change; Air filter and fuel filter typically every 15,000 - 30,000 km.

Suspension Maintenance:

Regular checks of hydropneumatic fluid level and condition, sphere integrity, and hose condition. Fluid changes typically every 60,000 - 80,000 km.

Engine Oil:

API SF/SG or equivalent, SAE 10W-40 or 15W-50 commonly recommended. Refer to manual for exact viscosity based on climate.

Coolant:

Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze mixture, typically 50/50 with distilled water.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 compatible fluid.

Hydropneumatic Fluid:

Citroën LHM (Liquide Hydraulique Minéral) or equivalent conforming to Citroën's specific requirements.

Hydropneumatic System:

Leaking spheres, worn seals, pump issues, hose degradation, ride height adjustment problems.

Electrical System:

Corrosion in connectors, aging wiring harnesses, switch failures (especially power windows and central locking if fitted).

Rust:

Common on older vehicles, particularly around wheel arches, sills, and door bottoms. Rustproofing is essential.

Engine Wear:

Can include piston ring wear, oil consumption, and timing belt wear (if applicable to specific engine variant).

📚 Vehicle History

Citroen Ethos:

Renowned for avant-garde engineering, comfort, and innovative design (e.g., Traction Avant, 2CV, DS).

Cx Introduction:

Introduced in 1974 as the successor to the iconic Citroën DS.

1985 Updates:

Likely received minor updates for the 1985 model year, potentially including powertrain refinements, interior trim changes, or option package adjustments. The CX series underwent continuous development throughout its production run.

Production Years:

1974 - 1991

Manufacturing Locations:

France (Rennes-sur-Vilaine), Belgium, Portugal, South Africa, Taiwan.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Design Awards:

Recognized for its aerodynamic design and innovation, often featured in design publications of its era.

Automotive Journalism:

Received critical acclaim for its unique driving experience and advanced features upon release.