🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Citroën

Model:

GS / GSA

Year:

1985

Chassis Code:

VGS (for GS), ZXS (for GSA)

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Compact/Small Family Car

Unique Selling Proposition:

Innovative hydropneumatic suspension offering exceptional ride comfort and self-leveling capabilities.

Key Competitors Era:

Volkswagen Golf, Ford Escort, Opel Kadett, Fiat 128, Renault 14.

Design Philosophy:

Aerodynamic 'flying carpet' design by Michel Buchman, focus on comfort and practicality.

Gsa Enhancements:

GSA variant introduced revised interior, updated dashboard, and often a 5-speed gearbox as standard.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Complete Service and Repair

Secondary Coverage:

Maintenance, Troubleshooting, Diagnostics, Electrical Schematics, Bodywork

Estimated Page Count:

Extensive (typical for comprehensive workshop manuals, often 500+ pages)

Type:

Workshop Manual / Service Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine assembly, disassembly, cylinder head, pistons, crankshaft, camshaft, valve train, timing, lubrication system, cooling system.

Fuel System:

Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel lines, carburetor (Solex or Zenith variants), fuel injection systems (if applicable to specific 1985 models), fuel filter, emission control systems.

Ignition System:

Ignition coil, distributor, spark plugs, ignition timing, electronic ignition components.

Transmission Manual:

Clutch operation and adjustment, gearbox disassembly and assembly, gear selection mechanism, internal components.

Transmission Automatic:

If applicable to 1985 models, details on automatic transmission operation, maintenance, and repair.

Drivetrain:

Front-wheel drive system, drive shafts, CV joints, differential, transaxle components.

Suspension Front:

Hydropneumatic system (front struts, spheres, accumulator, hydraulic pump), control arms, anti-roll bar, wheel bearings.

Suspension Rear:

Hydropneumatic system (rear suspension arms, spheres, height correctors), trailing arms, shock absorbers (if separate from hydropneumatic).

Steering System:

Steering rack, steering column, power steering system (if equipped), linkage, steering wheel.

Braking System:

Front and rear disc brakes (typically), brake calipers, brake pads, brake discs, master cylinder, brake lines, parking brake, hydraulic system (including pressure regulator if applicable).

Electrical System Overview:

12-volt electrical system, battery, alternator, starter motor, lighting circuits, accessory circuits, fuses, relays.

Wiring Diagrams:

Comprehensive electrical wiring diagrams for all systems, including engine, lighting, interior, and accessories.

Body Chassis:

Body construction, frame, doors, windows, locks, hood, trunk lid, bumpers, body panels, corrosion protection, sealing.

Heating Ventilation Air Conditioning:

HVAC system operation, blower motor, ducting, heater core, demister, air conditioning components (if equipped).

Interior Trim:

Dashboard, seats, upholstery, door panels, headliner, carpets, interior fittings.

Restraint Systems:

Seat belts, their anchor points, and adjustment mechanisms. (Airbags were not standard or common in 1985 models).

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance tasks, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-ups, lubrication points, belt adjustments, spark plug replacement.

Troubleshooting:

Systematic diagnostic procedures for identifying common faults and problems, symptom-based troubleshooting guides.

Repair Engine:

Detailed step-by-step instructions for engine overhaul, component replacement (e.g., gaskets, seals, bearings, pistons), timing belt/chain replacement.

Repair Transmission:

Gearbox rebuild, clutch replacement, transmission fluid service, drive axle seal replacement.

Repair Brakes:

Brake pad and disc replacement, caliper servicing, master cylinder replacement, brake bleeding procedures.

Repair Suspension:

Hydropneumatic system servicing (charging, component replacement), suspension linkage repair, shock absorber replacement, wheel alignment specifications.

Repair Electrical:

Diagnosis and repair of electrical faults, component testing and replacement (e.g., alternator, starter, sensors, switches), wiring harness repair.

Bodywork Repair:

Panel alignment, dent removal, rust repair, seal replacement, trim fitting and removal.

Refurbishment Renovation:

Guidance on restoring various vehicle components and systems.

Diagnostic Capability:

Advanced diagnostics, including electrical system tracing and engine performance analysis.

Rebuild Capability:

Complete engine, transmission, and component rebuild procedures.

Special Tools:

Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific repairs, particularly for the hydropneumatic system.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format:

PDF

Required Software:

Adobe PDF Reader

Printability:

Printable pages

Binding:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Family:

Citroën GS/GSA Boxer (flat-four) engines

Displacement Gs:

1124 cc (1.1 L)

Displacement Gsa Base:

1299 cc (1.3 L) - common for GSA models

Displacement Gsa Sport:

1299 cc (1.3 L) with higher tune, or potentially 1360 cc (1.4 L) in later GSA variants.

Horsepower Gs 1.1:

Approx. 56-60 PS (55-59 bhp; 41-44 kW)

Horsepower Gsa 1.3:

Approx. 65 PS (64 bhp; 48 kW)

Torque Gsa 1.3:

Approx. 97 Nm (72 lb-ft) @ 3500 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Solex twin-choke carburetor (common), potentially Bosch L-Jetronic or similar for later/higher-spec models.

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline (Eurosuper 95 RON or higher recommended for modern use)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

4-speed manual (common on earlier GS and some GSA models)

Transmission Type Optional:

5-speed manual (standard on many GSA models), 3-speed automatic (less common)

Drive Layout:

Front-Wheel Drive (FWD)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 4,120 mm (162.2 in)

Width:

Approx. 1,600 mm (63.0 in)

Height:

Approx. 1,340 mm (52.8 in) (not accounting for hydropneumatic adjustment)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 950 - 1050 kg (2094 - 2315 lbs)

🛡️ Safety Features

Braking System Features:

Front ventilated discs, rear solid discs, dual-circuit hydraulic system.

Seat Belts:

Standard 3-point front seat belts, 2-point rear seat belts (later models may have 3-point rear).

Body Construction:

Monocoque construction with integrated safety cage elements.

💡 Technology Features

Radio:

Basic AM/FM radio (likely an optional upgrade or dealer fit).

Driver Assistance Features:

None (modern driver assistance systems were not available).

Connectivity Features:

None (no integrated Bluetooth or USB connectivity).

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 7,500 - 10,000 km (4,500 - 6,000 miles) or annually.

Tune Up Interval:

Spark plugs, points (if applicable), and filters every 15,000 - 20,000 km (9,000 - 12,000 miles).

Engine Oil:

API SG or higher, SAE 10W-40 or 20W-50 (check manual for exact viscosity based on temperature).

Hydraulic Fluid:

Citroën LHM (Green fluid) for hydropneumatic suspension and brake systems.

Coolant:

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

Hydropneumatic System Leaks:

Common issues include leaks from spheres, hoses, and pump seals, leading to suspension sag.

Electrical Gremlins:

Vintage wiring can be prone to corrosion and intermittent faults, especially in lighting and ignition circuits.

Rust:

Prone to rust in common areas like sills, wheel arches, and door bottoms due to age and construction.

Carburetor Issues:

Carburetors require regular adjustment and cleaning; internal seals can degrade.

📚 Vehicle History

Citroen Innovation:

Citroën's legacy of pioneering hydraulic and suspension technology (e.g., Traction Avant, DS).

Gs Introduction:

The Citroën GS was introduced in 1970, evolving into the GSA in 1979 with significant updates.

Production Period Gs Gsa:

1970 - 1986

Production Location:

Rennes-sur-Vilaine, France

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car Of The Year:

Citroën GS was voted European Car of the Year in 1971.