Vehicle Class:
Full-size/Executive car
Citroen Philosophy:
Represents Citroën's commitment to advanced technology, comfort, and unique design in the executive segment.
Key Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz W124, BMW 5 Series (E34), Audi 100/A6 (C3/C4), Peugeot 605
Hydropneumatic Suspension:
Signature Hydractive/Hydropneumatic suspension providing exceptional ride comfort and adjustable ride height.
Innovative Design:
Distinctive aerodynamic styling, advanced interior ergonomics, and innovative features for its era.
Safety Innovation:
Early adoption of advanced safety features including ABS, airbags, and structural integrity.
Engine Mechanical:
Detailed overhaul procedures, component testing, specifications for all petrol and diesel engines
Engine Management:
Fuel injection, ignition systems, emissions control, ECU diagnostics, sensor and actuator testing
Transmission Manual:
Overhaul, clutch, gearshift mechanism, lubrication for manual transmissions
Transmission Automatic:
Operation, diagnosis, fluid service, overhaul procedures for automatic transmissions
Suspension Hydropneumatic:
Detailed coverage of the Hydractive/Hydropneumatic suspension system, including spheres, accumulators, hydraulic fluid, pumps, valves, height correctors, and diagnostic procedures.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems, ABS, components, bleeding procedures, hydraulic circuit diagrams
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, column, linkage, hydraulic components
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, component location, battery, alternator, starter, lighting, accessories, fuse/relay identification
Body And Chassis:
Body panel removal/installation, doors, windows, locks, seats, interior trim, structural components
Climate Control:
HVAC system, air conditioning, heater, ventilation, fan controls, refrigerant handling
Safety Systems:
Airbags, seatbelt pre-tensioners, SRS system diagnosis
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-ups, spark plug replacement, belt inspection/replacement
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts, symptom-based troubleshooting guides for common issues
Component Overhaul:
Engine rebuilds, transmission repairs, suspension component refurbishment
Wiring Diagram Interpretation:
Detailed explanations and usage of electrical schematics
Diagnostic Tools Usage:
Information on using OBD-II scanners (where applicable) and specialized Citroën diagnostic equipment
Diagnostic Capability:
Advanced diagnostic procedures, fault code interpretation, sensor data analysis
Repair Complexity:
Covers everything from minor adjustments to complete component rebuilds and system diagnostics
Information Source:
Factory-authorized repair procedures and specifications
Petrol Engines Offered:
2.0L ( xu10j2), 2.0L Turbo ( xu10j2te), 2.1L (xantia/xm V6 xu9j4), 3.0L V6 (ES9J4), 3.0L V6 24v (ES9J4S)
Diesel Engines Offered:
2.1L TD (XUD11BTE), 2.5L TD (DK5ATE)
2.0L Petrol (16V):
Approx. 132-135 PS (97-100 kW)
3.0L V6 24V:
Approx. 194 PS (143 kW)
2.1L Td:
Approx. 110 PS (81 kW)
Petrol Fuel Injection:
Bosch Motronic, Lucas/Delco-Remy (depending on engine variant)
Diesel Fuel System:
Indirect Injection (IDI) with turbocharger and intercooler for TD variants
Manual Transmission:
5-speed manual (e.g., J9, MA5)
Automatic Transmission:
4-speed automatic (e.g., ZF 4HP18, AL4)
Gear Ratios:
Specific gear ratios detailed for each transmission variant and engine combination
Transmission Fluid Spec:
Citroën/Total Fluide LDS for Hydropneumatic system, ATF Dexron III for automatic transmissions
Audio System:
Factory fitted radio/cassette or CD players, often with steering wheel mounted controls on later models.
Cruise Control:
Optional on many variants.
Onboard Computer:
Included on some higher trim levels, displaying fuel consumption, range, etc.
Connectivity Features:
Limited by era; primarily analogue systems. Bluetooth or auxiliary input would be aftermarket additions.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 10,000-15,000 km or 12 months, whichever comes first (refer to manual for specific engine)
Timing Belt Replacement:
Every 80,000-120,000 km or 5-7 years for belt-driven engines (critical maintenance item)
Hydropneumatic Fluid Change:
Recommended every 60,000 km or 4 years for LHM/LDS fluid replacement and filter service.
Engine Oil Petrol:
API SL/CF, ACEA A3/B3, viscosity typically 5W-40 or 10W-40 (consult manual)
Engine Oil Diesel:
API CF/CF-4, ACEA B3/B4, viscosity typically 10W-40 or 15W-40 (consult manual)
Coolant:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze, typically with OAT (Organic Acid Technology) or HOAT (Hybrid OAT) formulation, 50% mix with distilled water.
Power Steering Fluid:
Citroën LHM Plus (for early models) or LDS (for later models with Hydractive 3)
Hydropneumatic System Leaks:
Common issue: leaks from spheres, pipes, or seals, leading to suspension sag or loss of pressure. Requires specialized knowledge for repair.
Electronics Reliability:
Early models can suffer from electronic component failures (ECUs, sensors), often exacerbated by age and wiring harness issues.
Suspension Height Corrector:
Potential failure of height corrector valves or actuators.
Rust Corrosion:
Common on older vehicles, particularly around wheel arches, sills, and subframes.
Timing Belt Failure:
Critical to follow replacement intervals; failure can cause catastrophic engine damage.
Citroen Innovation:
Citroën's history of technological innovation in suspension, aerodynamics, and comfort.
Generation Y3:
Launched in 1989 as a successor to the CX, featuring a radical design and advanced technology.
Generation Y4:
Facelifted in 1994 with styling updates, improved interior, and enhanced technology, including Hydractive 3.
Production Period:
1989 - 2000
Manufacturing Plant:
France (Rennes-La Janais)
