Positioning:
The Citroën CX was positioned as a luxury executive car, emphasizing advanced technology, comfort, and a unique design. It succeeded the iconic DS.
Competitors:
Competed with other European luxury sedans of its era, such as the Mercedes-Benz W116/W123, BMW E12/E28, and Peugeot 604, often differentiating through its hydropneumatic suspension and avant-garde styling.
Design Philosophy:
Aerodynamic, flowing 'fastback' silhouette, signature Citroën interior ergonomics (centered dashboard, single-spoke steering wheel), and the advanced hydropneumatic suspension system providing unparalleled ride comfort.
Value:
Empowers owners and technicians to perform a wide range of maintenance and repair tasks, preserving the unique driving experience and longevity of the Citroën CX.
Geographic Coverage:
Primarily European market, with specifications relevant to global early CX models.
Vehicle Variants Covered:
Saloon (Berline), Estate (Break/Safari), CX Pallas, CX GTi (early versions) – specific engine variants detailed within.
Estimated Page Count:
Extensive (typically over 1000 pages for a complete factory-level workshop manual).
Type:
Factory-type Service and Repair Workshop Manual
Language:
Likely English (common for international market manuals, or translated from French originals).
Format:
Digital Download (PDF)
Engine Mechanical:
Engine overhauls, cylinder head, block, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, timing, lubrication system, cooling system.
Engine Fuel And Emissions:
Fuel injection systems (Bosch L-Jetronic, K-Jetronic where applicable), carburetors (Zenith, Solex), ignition system, exhaust system, emission control systems.
Transmission:
Manual transmissions (4-speed, 5-speed), automatic transmissions (Citroën DG, ZF 3HP12), clutch, driveshafts, differentials.
Hydropneumatic Suspension:
Detailed explanation of the revolutionary hydropneumatic system, spheres, accumulators, hydraulic fluid (LHM), pumps, height correctors, hydraulic rams, pressure regulation, troubleshooting.
Braking System:
Hydraulic disc brakes (front and rear), hydraulic power assistance (DIRAVI), brake calipers, master cylinder, brake fluid specifications, bleeding procedures.
Steering System:
Power steering (DIRAVI variable assist system), steering rack, tie rods, steering column, adjustments.
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system, lighting (headlights, taillights, interior), fuses, relays, wiring diagrams, dashboard instruments, warning lights.
Bodywork And Chassis:
Body panel repair, door mechanisms, windows, seals, interior trim, dashboard removal, structural integrity.
Heating And Ventilation:
HVAC system, blower motor, heater core, ventilation controls, demisters.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug checks, coolant changes, lubrication points, belt adjustments, brake fluid flushes.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common faults across all systems, symptom-based troubleshooting guides.
Component Overhaul And Rebuild:
Detailed steps for disassembling, inspecting, repairing, and reassembling major components like engines, transmissions, hydraulic pumps, and brake actuators.
Adjustment Procedures:
Carburetor tuning, ignition timing, idle speed adjustment, valve clearances, suspension height adjustments.
Wiring Diagrams:
Complete, schematic electrical wiring diagrams for all vehicle circuits, color-coded for easy identification.
Depth:
Comprehensive, factory-level detail suitable for professional mechanics and experienced DIY enthusiasts. Covers diagnostics, repair, and rebuilds.
Engine Type:
Inline-4 Cylinder, Petrol
Engine Codes:
Various, including 'CX 20' (2.0L), 'CX 22' (2.2L), 'CX 24' (2.3L for GTi models).
Displacement 24 Gti:
2377 cc
Horsepower 20:
Approx. 102-112 hp (depending on market and fuel system)
Horsepower 22:
Approx. 115-122 hp
Horsepower 24 Gti:
Approx. 128-136 hp (with fuel injection)
Torque 20:
Approx. 160 Nm
Torque 22:
Approx. 175 Nm
Torque 24 Gti:
Approx. 190-200 Nm
Carbureted Models:
Zenith 36/36 or Solex twin-choke carburetors (e.g., CX 20, CX 22).
Fuel Injected Models:
Bosch L-Jetronic or K-Jetronic mechanical fuel injection (e.g., early CX 24 GTi).
Engine Layout:
Front-mounted, transverse
Valve Gear:
Overhead camshaft (OHC)
Length Berline:
Approx. 4.64 meters (Saloon)
Length Safari:
Approx. 4.83 meters (Estate)
Width:
Approx. 1.77 meters
Height Unladen:
Approx. 1.37 meters (Saloon, normal ride height)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2.91 meters
Track Front:
Approx. 1.50 meters
Track Rear:
Approx. 1.30 meters
Luggage Capacity Berline:
Generous for its class, especially with rear seats folded.
Luggage Capacity Safari:
Significantly larger than the saloon, up to 1,880 liters with rear seats folded.
Curb Weight Approx:
1300 - 1500 kg (depending on variant and equipment)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Varies by model, typically around 1800-2000 kg.
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
4 x 140mm
Tire Sizes:
Common sizes include 185 HR 14, 195/65 HR 15, and 205/60 VR 15 for GTi models (specific sizes for each model/wheel option).
Crash Testing:
While formal Euro NCAP ratings were not prevalent in its production era, its robust structure and unique safety features were highly regarded.
Braking Assistance:
DIRAVI (Direction Assistée à Rappel asservi) progressive power steering and potent hydropneumatic-assisted braking system.
Suspension Stability:
Self-leveling hydropneumatic suspension contributes to excellent stability and ride control under various load conditions.
Seat Belts:
Standard front seat belts, with optional rear belts fitted depending on market and year.
Body Structure:
Designed with a strong safety cage and deformable crumple zones.
Lighting:
Aerodynamic headlight design, often with large driving or fog lights integrated into the bumper or bodywork.
Radio Options:
Original factory fitted radios (e.g., Philips, Blaupunkt) were common options, often with basic AM/FM reception.
Dashboard Design:
Distinctive 'spaceship' style dashboard with centrally mounted instruments and a single-spoke steering wheel, designed for ergonomic efficiency.
Power Steering System:
DIRAVI (Direction Assistée à Rappel asservi) - a speed-sensitive hydraulic power steering system offering lighter steering at low speeds and increased resistance at high speeds.
Suspension System:
Hydropneumatic suspension with automatic self-leveling and variable ride height control, providing exceptional ride comfort and handling.
Connectivity Features:
Limited by modern standards; primarily focused on mechanical and electrical systems, not telematics or advanced communication.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000 - 7,500 km or 6 months, depending on driving conditions (refer to manual for specific intervals).
Filter Replacement Interval:
Oil filter at every oil change; air filter and fuel filter typically every 15,000 - 20,000 km.
Hydropneumatic System Maintenance:
Hydraulic fluid (LHM) change and filter replacement recommended every 40,000 - 60,000 km. Sphere regeneration or replacement as needed.
Timing Belt Interval:
For applicable models, usually around 80,000 - 100,000 km (crucial to check and replace preventatively).
Engine Oil Specification:
API SF/SG, ACEA A2/B2 or equivalent. Viscosity grade typically 15W-40 or 20W-50, depending on climate (refer to manual for exact specs).
Coolant Specification:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Ensure compatibility with aluminium components.
Hydraulic Fluid Specification:
Citroën LHM (Liquide Hydraulique Minéral), typically green in color. Do NOT use modern LHS or LHM Plus fluids.
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 glycol-based brake fluid (for the secondary braking circuit and clutch operation where applicable).
Hydropneumatic System:
Leaking spheres, worn hydraulic pump seals, failing height correctors, and low LHM fluid levels are common wear items.
Electrical Gremlins:
Corroded wiring connectors, failing relays, and dashboard warning light issues can occur with age.
Rust Corrosion:
Common on floor pans, sills, and around wheel arches, especially in areas exposed to salt.
Exhaust Systems:
Corrosion of exhaust pipes and mufflers.
Citroen Innovation:
Citroën's legacy of automotive innovation, exemplified by the DS and SM, paved the way for the CX's advanced engineering and design.
Predecessor:
The Citroën DS (1955-1975), its iconic predecessor, set high standards for ride comfort and aerodynamic design that the CX aimed to surpass.
Series 1 Development:
The Series 1 encompassed the initial design and most of the early production run, establishing the CX's core technologies and styling.
Series 2 Transition:
Later Series 2 models introduced styling updates and some revised mechanical components, but this manual focuses on the earlier Series 1 characteristics.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily manufactured in France (Rennes-sur-Vitre) and later in other Citroën plants.
Production Volume:
Over 1.1 million units produced across all variants worldwide between 1974 and 1991 (this manual covers the early portion).
