Target Audience:
Professional technicians, DIY mechanics, Citroen CX owners
Advantage:
Provides factory-level information for a classic vehicle, available digitally for immediate access.
Feature 1:
Step-by-step repair procedures
Feature 2:
Critical specifications and torque values
Feature 3:
Detailed illustrations and diagrams
Feature 4:
Maintenance schedules and fluid recommendations
Feature 5:
Troubleshooting guides for common problems
Required Knowledge:
Basic knowledge in electrical and mechanical concepts recommended, avoid complicated repairs without expertise.
Engine:
All gasoline engine variants (e.g., CX 20, CX 2400, CX 2200 diesel)
Fuel System:
Carburetor and early fuel injection systems (if applicable to 1981 models)
Ignition System:
Distributor-based ignition, electronic ignition systems
Cooling System:
Radiator, coolant circulation, fan operation, heater core
Exhaust System:
Exhaust manifold, pipes, muffler, catalytic converter (if fitted)
Transmission:
Manual and Automatic transmissions
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive system, driveshafts, CV joints
Suspension:
Hydropneumatic suspension system (Citroen's signature) front and rear
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, column
Brakes:
Hydraulic brake system, disc brakes (front and rear), parking brake
Electrical System:
Battery, alternator, starter motor, lighting, accessories, wiring diagrams
Bodywork:
Body panel repair, doors, hood, trunk, glass, trim
Interior:
Dashboard, seats, upholstery, climate control (if applicable)
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, lubrication
Repair:
Component repair and replacement for all major systems
Disassembly:
Detailed procedures for removing and reassembling components
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts and symptom-based troubleshooting guides
Technical Specifications:
Torque values, clearances, tolerances, fluid capacities
Illustrations:
Diagrams, line drawings, and photographic illustrations of components and procedures
Electrical Diagnostics:
Detailed wiring diagrams, component testing, and fault finding for the electrical system
Depth:
Comprehensive coverage suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts
Printability:
Full Printable
Zoom:
Yes (allows zooming in and out for detailed viewing)
Binding:
Digital (N/A for paper equivalent)
Paper Type:
Digital (N/A for paper equivalent)
Reader Requirement:
Adobe PDF Reader
Unzipping Requirement:
WinZip or equivalent archive utility
Operating Systems:
All Versions of Windows & Mac
Engine Options 1981:
Likely includes 1985cc (CX 20), 2175cc (CX 2200 Diesel), and possibly 2377cc (CX 2400).
Typical Horsepower:
Varies by engine: CX 20 ~90-100 hp, CX 2400 ~115-125 hp, CX 2200 Diesel ~66 hp
Typical Torque:
Varies by engine; specific figures available within the manual.
Fuel Delivery:
Primarily Weber or Solex carburetors for gasoline engines, diesel injection for diesel variants.
Common Gasoline Engines:
Typo XN1 (2.0L), Typo ZDJ (2.35L)
Common Diesel Engines:
Typo XD2 (2.2L Diesel)
Transmission Type:
Likely a 4-speed or 5-speed manual transmission as standard on many models.
Transmission Type:
Citroen's semi-automatic (electronic clutch) or a conventional automatic transmission was often an option.
Clutch Type:
Single dry plate (manual), electronic control (semi-automatic)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
Refer to manual for specific API GL-4 or GL-5 specifications and viscosity (e.g., 75W-90 or 80W-90).
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Likely Dexron II or equivalent automatic transmission fluid.
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2,970 mm (116.9 in)
Length:
Approx. 4,600-4,700 mm (181.1-185.0 in) depending on body style (Berline, Break)
Width:
Approx. 1,770-1,800 mm (69.7-70.9 in)
Height:
Approx. 1,360-1,370 mm (53.5-53.9 in)
Curb Weight:
Varies by model and equipment, typically 1,300-1,500 kg (2,866-3,307 lb)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Refer to vehicle's specific VIN plate or manual.
Crash Test Results:
No standardized crash test ratings (like NHTSA/Euro NCAP) comparable to modern vehicles were prevalent in 1981. The CX's design prioritized passive safety through its structure and hydropneumatic suspension.
Active Safety:
Powerful hydraulic disc brakes, self-leveling hydropneumatic suspension for stable handling, Michelin TRX tires (optional, on specific wheels).
Passive Safety:
Designed with crumple zones, impact-absorbing steering column, reinforced passenger cell.
Infotainment System:
Basic AM/FM radio, potentially with cassette player. Dashboard integrated controls for climate and radio.
Driver Assistance Features:
The hydropneumatic suspension provided an advanced form of stability and ride comfort, often considered a precursor to modern driver-assistance systems in terms of its impact on the driving experience.
Connectivity Features:
None by modern standards; primarily internal electrical systems.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 5,000-10,000 km (3,000-6,000 miles) or annually, depending on driving conditions. Refer to manual for precise intervals.
Major Service Interval:
Often around 40,000-80,000 km (25,000-50,000 miles) for timing belt/chain, fluid flushes, etc.
Engine Oil:
Refer to manual for specific viscosity (e.g., 10W-40, 15W-40) and API service classification. Likely a higher zinc content oil for older engines.
Coolant:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze mixed with distilled water. Specific capacity and type to be confirmed in the manual.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 hydraulic fluid for the brake and clutch systems.
Suspension Fluid:
Citroen LHM (Green Mineral Oil) for hydropneumatic systems. DO NOT use standard hydraulic fluid.
Common Issues 1:
Hydropneumatic suspension spheres (requiring recharge or replacement), LHS fluid leaks, electric window regulators, distributor unit (Ducellier), rust in sills and wheel arches.
Common Issues 2:
Carburetor adjustment and wear, dashboard warning light issues, rear main oil seal leaks.
Citroen Heritage:
Citroen has a long history of innovative and avant-garde automotive design, particularly known for its hydropneumatic suspension and aerodynamic styling.
Cx Evolution To 1981:
The CX was introduced in 1974 as the successor to the DS. By 1981, it had received minor updates but retained its distinctive design and technological core. The 1981 model year saw the introduction of the 2.0L engine (CX 20) and the 2.2L Diesel engine (CX 2200 Diesel) into some markets, expanding the range.
Production Period:
1974-1997
Manufacturing Plants:
Primary production in Rennes-La Janais, France.
