Positioning:
A comprehensive digital resource for owners and professionals working on Citroën GS and GSA models, offering an affordable and accessible alternative to original factory documentation.
Competitors:
This manual competes with physical factory service manuals, Haynes/Chilton style guides, and other digital workshop manuals for the same vehicle range. Its primary advantage is its digital format, instant access, and potentially lower cost.
Features:
Instant download, low price, great quality, comprehensive coverage of all GS/GSA models from 1971-1985, detailed technical data, diagrams, and troubleshooting information.
Powertrain:
Engine Service/Repair, Transmission Service/Repair, Differential/Drive, Axle
Chassis And Suspension:
Suspension, Steering, Brake System, Chassis/Body
Electrical And Ancillary Systems:
Electrical System, Wiring Diagram, Cooling System, Fuel System, Fuel Injection, Emission System, Heater/Air Conditioner, Engine Control System
Interior And Body:
Interior, Restraint System
Routine Maintenance:
General Maintenance, Periodic Lubrication, Maintenance Check List, Maintenance Chart
Troubleshooting And Repair:
Troubleshooting, Engine Repair, Transmission Repair, Brake System Repair, Electrical System Repair, Suspension Repair, Steering Repair, Cooling System Repair, Fuel Injection Repair, Fuel System Repair, Emission System Repair, HVAC Repair, Engine Control System Repair, Chassis/Body Repair, Interior Repair, Differential/Drive Repair, Axle Repair
Technical Data And Diagrams:
Technical Data, Circuits, Diagrams, Datasheets
Depth:
Comprehensive factory-level detail suitable for technicians and mechanics, including component-level repair and diagnostics.
Engine Type Gs:
Air-cooled, flat-four (boxer)
Engine Displacement Gs:
1015 cc (1.0L) initially, later variants included 1124 cc (1.1L), 1222 cc (1.2L), and 1299 cc (1.3L) for GSA.
Typical Horsepower:
Varies by engine: approx. 56-70 hp for GS, 65-75 hp for GSA, depending on specific engine and tuning.
Fuel Delivery Gs:
Carbureted (e.g., Solex, Weber) for most GS models. GSA models often featured fuel injection (e.g., Bosch L-Jetronic) on higher trims or later production.
Cooling Method:
Air-cooled
Body Styles:
2-door sedan, 4-door sedan, 5-door estate (Break/Kombi).
Length Gs Sedan:
Approximately 4.02 meters (158 inches).
Wheelbase:
Approximately 2.48 meters (97.6 inches).
Curb Weight Gs:
Approximately 960-1050 kg (2116-2315 lbs) depending on body style and equipment.
Gross Vehicle Weight:
Typically around 1400 kg (3086 lbs).
Crash Test Era:
Vehicles from this era generally did not undergo standardized crash testing as rigorously as modern vehicles. Safety features were more rudimentary.
Braking System:
Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes. Some models may have featured advanced brake pressure regulators.
Seatbelts:
Front seatbelts were standard, rear seatbelts often optional. Lap belts or three-point belts depending on year and market.
Body Structure:
Designed with a focus on crumple zones, although less sophisticated than modern designs.
Radio:
Factory-fitted radios were typically AM/FM or FM stereo, often with manual tuning and basic speaker systems.
Dashboard Design:
The GSA featured a distinctive 'asteroid' dashboard with rocker switches and a unique instrument cluster. The GS had a more conventional, but still modern for its time, dashboard.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was not a standard or commonly available option on these models during their primary production runs.
Connectivity Features:
No modern connectivity features like Bluetooth or USB ports were available. This era of vehicles focused on mechanical and functional design.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000 - 7,500 km (3,000 - 4,500 miles) or annually, depending on driving conditions and specific engine recommendations. The manual would provide precise intervals.
Tune Up Interval:
Spark plug replacement, ignition timing adjustment, and carburetor adjustments would be recommended at intervals such as 10,000 - 20,000 km (6,000 - 12,000 miles).
Engine Oil Type:
Typically multi-viscosity oils like 10W-40 or 20W-50, depending on ambient temperature. Specific API service classifications would be detailed in the manual.
Hydropneumatic Fluid:
Citroën's LHS 2 or LHM (Mineral Oil) for hydraulic suspension and brake systems, depending on the specific model year and system evolution. Crucial to use the correct fluid type.
Coolant Type:
Water-glycol mixture. The manual would specify the correct ratio and type of antifreeze/coolant.
Common Problems:
Hydropneumatic suspension leaks or pressure loss, carburetor tuning issues, electrical system corrosion, exhaust system deterioration, rust (especially on sills and wheel arches).
Engine Wear:
As air-cooled engines, they can be susceptible to overheating if cooling fins are blocked or if the engine is under prolonged strain. Piston ring wear and valve guide wear are common with age.
Citroen Philosophy:
Citroën's history is marked by innovation, avant-garde design, and advanced engineering, particularly in suspension systems and aerodynamics.
Gs Introduction:
The GS was launched in 1970 as a compact, front-wheel-drive car. It was acclaimed for its advanced technology, particularly its hydropneumatic suspension and aerodynamic styling.
Gsa Update:
The GSA was an updated version of the GS, introduced in 1980. It featured revised styling (including a new dashboard and bumpers), improved engines, and updated features to modernize the car for the 1980s.
Production Period:
GS: 1970-1980. GSA: 1980-1986. Total production for both combined exceeded 1.8 million units.
European Car Of The Year:
The Citroën GS was awarded the European Car of the Year in 1971, recognizing its innovative design and engineering.
Design Awards:
The GS received numerous accolades for its advanced aerodynamic styling and comfortable ride, largely attributed to its hydropneumatic suspension.
