🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Citroen

Model:

CX

Year:

1987

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

A vital resource for Citroen CX owners and independent mechanics seeking to maintain and repair their vehicles without reliance on dealership services. Caters to enthusiasts and DIYers.

Key Features:

Enables independent, high-quality repairs, cost savings on labor, in-depth vehicle knowledge for emergencies, and convenient anytime/anywhere access to repair information.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

General Maintenance, Troubleshooting, Engine Service/Repair, Transmission Service/Repair, Brake System, Wiring Diagram, Electrical System, Suspension, Periodic Lubrication, Steering, Cooling System, Fuel Injection/Fuel System, Emission System, Engine Control System, Chassis/Body, Restraint System, Axle, and more.

Manual Type:

Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Engine (including fuel injection and control), transmission, brakes, steering, suspension, cooling, lubrication, electrical system (including wiring diagrams), chassis, body, and restraint systems.

Procedures Included:

Disassembly, reassembly, repair, servicing, maintenance, refurbishment, renovation, and fixing of all covered systems. Includes troubleshooting guides and periodic lubrication schedules.

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive, covering all aspects of repair and maintenance from basic service to in-depth technical procedures.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Software Requirements:

Adobe PDF Reader, WinZip

Compatibility:

All versions of Windows & Mac

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Primary Engine:

Likely includes variants of the Douvrin/PSA PRV V6 engine, common in the CX range. Specific displacement for 1987 models could be 2.0L (e.g., CX 20) or 2.5L (e.g., CX 25 GTI).

Performance:

Varies by engine. For example, a 2.5L V6 might produce around 136-160 hp depending on the specific variant and fuel system (injection or carburetor).

Fuel System:

Bosch L-Jetronic or similar electronic fuel injection systems were prevalent on higher-spec models, while carburetors might be found on base models.

🔧 Transmission

Standard:

Typically a 5-speed manual transmission.

Optional:

A 3-speed or 4-speed automatic transmission was often an option.

Features:

The Citroen CX's innovative hydropneumatic suspension system often influenced transmission behavior and gear selection strategies for optimal ride comfort.

📐 Dimensions

Exterior:

The CX is renowned for its aerodynamic, wedge-shaped profile. Length: ~4.6-4.9 meters, Width: ~1.7-1.8 meters, Height: ~1.3-1.4 meters. Wheelbase: ~2.9-3.0 meters.

Weights:

Curb weight typically ranged from 1300 kg to 1500 kg, depending on engine and equipment.

🛡️ Safety Features

Passive Features:

Designed with crumple zones, steel safety cage, and often equipped with three-point seatbelts. Later models might have driver's side airbags as an option.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment:

For its era, infotainment was basic, typically comprising an AM/FM radio, possibly with a cassette player. Speaker systems were generally limited.

Driver Assistance:

The hydropneumatic suspension provided a revolutionary level of ride comfort and self-leveling. Power steering (DIRAVI - Direction à rappel constant) offered variable assistance based on speed.

🔧 Maintenance

Service Intervals:

Typically: Oil change every 5,000-7,500 km or annually. Filter changes at similar intervals. Spark plugs, air filter, and more detailed checks at 20,000-40,000 km intervals, as outlined in the manual.

Fluid Specifications:

Engine Oil: Likely SAE 10W-40 or 15W-50 (API SF/SG). Transmission Fluid: Manual transmission oil GL-4 75W-90 or 80W-90. Automatic transmission fluid: Dexron-II or equivalent. Brake Fluid: DOT 3 or DOT 4. Hydropneumatic Fluid: LHM (mineral oil-based, typically green).

Known Issues:

Hydropneumatic suspension leaks or pressure loss, ignition system issues (especially with older electronics), rust in common areas (wheel arches, sills), electrical gremlins due to wiring complexity, and exhaust manifold cracks on V6 engines.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Citroen has a long history of pioneering automotive innovation, particularly with its hydropneumatic suspension, which debuted with the DS and was refined in the CX.

Model Evolution:

The CX, launched in 1974, succeeded the iconic DS. It featured a distinctive aerodynamic design and the advanced hydropneumatic suspension system. The 1987 model represents a later iteration, likely with subtle updates to styling, interior, and mechanicals.

Production:

Produced from 1974 to 1991. The 1987 model falls within the later years of its production run.