🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Citroën

Model:

GS / GSA

Year:

1978

Model Generation:

Series 1 (GS) / Series 2 (GSA)

Chassis Code:

GS/GSA

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

A comprehensive factory-level service manual providing essential information for owners and independent workshops to maintain and repair the Citroën GS/GSA.

Value Proposition:

Offers professional-grade repair data, enabling significant cost savings on maintenance and repairs compared to dealership services. Provides factory-accurate information, ensuring correct procedures and specifications.

Manual Features:

Detailed diagrams, step-by-step instructions, troubleshooting guides, electrical system diagnostics with wiring diagrams, and coverage for all vehicle variants.

📋 Manual Details

Covered Models Trims:

All Models, Engines, Trim, and Transmission Types for 1978

Estimated Page Count:

Hundreds of pages (as per description)

Manual Type:

Workshop Repair Service Manual

Language:

English

File Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Covered Systems:

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, Heater/Air Conditioner, Engine Control System, Chassis/Body, Restraint System, Interior, Differential/Drive, Axle

Included Procedures:

Diagnostic procedures, repair procedures, maintenance procedures, disassembly, assembly, cleaning, reinstallation, troubleshooting, electrical service procedures

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive diagnostic, repair, and maintenance information used by professional technicians; detailed substeps, notes, cautions, warnings, numbered instructions, illustrations, drawings, photos, and enlarged insets for critical information and detailed part examination.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format Details:

PDF

Print Quality Capability:

Full Printable

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Flat-four (Boxer) OHV

Engine Displacement Liters:

1.2L (1220cc), 1.3L (1299cc), 1.6L (1580cc - GSA models primarily)

Horsepower Range:

Approx. 56-70 hp (depending on engine variant)

Fuel Delivery:

Carburetor (e.g., Solex, Weber) or Fuel Injection (on later GSA models)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

4-speed Manual; 5-speed Manual (optional on some models)

Optional Transmission Type:

3-speed Automatic (Hydraulique-Automatique AP)

Transmission Features:

Front-wheel drive, transaxle design

📐 Dimensions

Body Styles:

Hatchback (2-door and 4-door), Estate (Break)

Curb Weight Kg:

Approx. 950-1050 kg (depending on body style and engine)

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Safety Era:

Designed in an era with less stringent modern crash safety standards; emphasis on innovative suspension and chassis.

Active Safety Features:

Disc brakes (front and rear), rack and pinion steering.

Passive Safety Features:

Seat belts (standard, but functionality may vary by specific build date and market).

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment Features:

Basic radio (optional), analogue instrumentation.

Driver Assistance Features:

N/A (no electronic driver assistance systems typical of modern vehicles).

Connectivity Features:

N/A (no electronic connectivity features).

🔧 Maintenance

Recommended Service Intervals:

Typical intervals for oil changes: 3,000-5,000 miles (or annually). Other service items like spark plugs, filters, and coolant checks would follow manufacturer recommendations, detailed within the manual.

Engine Oil Type:

API SE/SF or ACEA A1/B1 equivalent, viscosity typically 20W-50 or 10W-40 depending on climate (refer to manual for exact specification).

Coolant Type:

Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze, mixed with distilled water. Specific brand or type may be recommended in manual.

Common Issues:

Hydropneumatic suspension issues (leaks, pump failure), electrical system gremlins, rust (especially on sills and wheel arches), carburettor tuning, thermostat issues.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand History Context:

Citroën is renowned for its innovation in automotive design and engineering, particularly with features like hydropneumatic suspension. The GS/GSA embodies this philosophy.

Model Lineage:

The GS was launched in 1970, serving as a medium-sized family car. The GSA, introduced in 1979, was a facelifted version with styling updates, improved interior, and the 1.6L engine option. The 1978 model year falls within the GS generation, potentially offering early GSA-like features or representing the final iteration of the original GS design.

Production Period:

Citroën GS: 1970–1986; Citroën GSA: 1979–1986

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Automotive Journalism Awards:

The Citroën GS was widely praised for its innovative engineering and ride comfort upon its release, winning European Car of the Year in 1971.