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Introduction
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Market Position
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Market Position:
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Flagship model for Citroën during its production run, known for its avant-garde design, aerodynamic efficiency, and innovative hydropneumatic suspension. Positioned as a luxury grand tourer with a focus on comfort and technological advancement.
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Competitive Analysis
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Competitive Analysis:
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Competed with other European executive and luxury sedans of its era, such as the Mercedes-Benz W123, BMW 5 Series (E12/E28), Peugeot 604, and Volvo 260 series. Differentiated itself through its unique hydropneumatic suspension, distinctive styling, and front-wheel-drive layout.
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Key Features
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Key Features:
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Hydropneumatic suspension providing a self-leveling and exceptionally smooth ride, aerodynamic 'flying wing' design, power-assisted steering (DS-like), front-wheel drive, unique interior dashboard layout, durable construction.
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Manual Coverage
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Systems Covered
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Systems Covered:
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Engine, Transmission (Manual & Automatic), Suspension (Hydropneumatic), Brakes (Discs all around, DIRASS system), Steering (Power steering), Fuel System, Electrical System (including wiring diagrams), Cooling System, Exhaust System, Bodywork & Chassis, Interior Trim, Climate Control (where applicable).
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Engine Mechanical:
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Cylinder head removal and overhaul, piston and connecting rod installation, crankshaft and bearing service, timing gear/chain/belt maintenance, lubrication system, cooling system components.
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Transmission Overhaul:
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Manual gearbox disassembly, component inspection, reassembly; Automatic transmission diagnosis and overhaul procedures.
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Hydropneumatic Suspension:
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Detailed procedures for sphere replacement, hydraulic fluid flushing and filling, height corrector adjustment, hydraulic pump maintenance, pipe and seal replacement.
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Braking System:
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Disc brake pad and caliper service, rotor replacement, hydraulic line bleeding, parking brake adjustment, DIRASS system troubleshooting (where applicable).
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Electrical System:
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Comprehensive wiring diagrams for all major circuits, starter motor and alternator testing, ignition system diagnosis, lighting system repairs, dashboard instrument cluster troubleshooting.
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Body And Trim:
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Detailed instructions for interior panel removal, dashboard assembly, door card replacement, seat adjustment and repair, exterior trim pieces, and glass seals.
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Procedures Included
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Procedures Included:
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Scheduled maintenance, routine servicing, component removal and installation, diagnostic procedures, troubleshooting, complete engine rebuilds, transmission overhaul, hydraulic system adjustments, brake system repairs, electrical fault finding, body panel replacement, interior component repair.
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Engine Timing Adjustment:
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Correct ignition timing specifications and adjustment procedures for various engine variants.
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Wheel Alignment:
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Specifications and methods for checking and adjusting wheel alignment, including caster, camber, and toe.
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Body Repair:
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Panel alignment, rust repair techniques, door and window fitting, bumper replacement, and trim installation.
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Diagnostic Charts:
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Troubleshooting guides for common symptoms, helping to pinpoint issues with engine performance, electrical faults, or suspension behavior.
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Technical Depth
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Technical Depth:
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Comprehensive, ranging from basic maintenance tasks to advanced diagnostic and repair procedures, including full engine and transmission rebuilds. Includes detailed torque specifications and exploded part diagrams.
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Torque Specifications:
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Detailed torque values for critical fasteners throughout the vehicle, ensuring correct assembly and preventing damage.
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Part Diagrams:
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Exploded views and detailed diagrams of all major components, aiding in identification and assembly.
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Special Tools:
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Identification and usage guidance for specialized tools required for specific repairs or adjustments on the CX.
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Engine Specifications
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Primary Engine
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Primary Engine:
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Citroën DS Series (Douvrin) Inline-4 OHC
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Performance
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Engine Variants:
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Available in 2.0L (1985cc), 2.2L (2175cc), 2.3L (2377cc) petrol engines. Later models (Series 2) featured the 2.0L and 2.5L (2500cc) PRV V6 engine, particularly in GTI and Prestige models.
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Horsepower Range:
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Approximately 106 hp (2.0L) to 136 hp (2.3L) for 4-cylinder, and 168 hp (2.5L V6).
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Fuel System
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Fuel System:
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Carburetor (e.g., Solex, Weber) for most models, Bosch L-Jetronic fuel injection for later 2.3L models and Series 2 V6.
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Engine Layout
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Engine Layout:
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Transverse Inline-4, or Transverse V6 (PRV engine).
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Bore Stroke
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Bore Stroke:
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Varies by engine. E.g., 2.3L: 86mm x 95mm.
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Compression Ratio
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Compression Ratio:
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Typically around 8.5:1 to 9.5:1 depending on engine and fuel octane.
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Maintenance
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Service Intervals
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Service Intervals:
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Typical intervals: Oil change every 5,000-7,500 km, major service every 20,000-30,000 km. Hydropneumatic fluid changes and filter replacement are crucial and depend on mileage and usage. Timing belt replacement recommended every 60,000-80,000 km on 4-cylinder engines, and timing chain on V6.
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Fluid Specifications
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Fluid Specifications:
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Hydropneumatic suspension fluid: Citroën LHM Plus (or equivalent green mineral oil). Engine oil: 10W-40 or 15W-50 depending on climate. Brake fluid: DOT 3 or DOT 4 (for standard brake systems). Automatic transmission fluid: ATF Dexron II (or equivalent).
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Engine Oil Capacity Liters:
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Approximately 4.5 liters (4.8 US quarts) for 4-cylinder engines, 5.0 liters (5.3 US quarts) for V6.
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Coolant Capacity Liters:
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Approximately 8.0 liters (8.5 US quarts).
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Known Issues
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Common Issues:
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Hydropneumatic system leaks (spheres, seals, hoses), front suspension arm wear, electrical gremlins, carburetor tuning issues, rust on bodywork and chassis, fuel pump reliability on some models. Regular maintenance is key to longevity.
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Hydropneumatic System Pressure:
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Correct system pressure is crucial for operation and is detailed in the manual.
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Idle Speed Control:
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Carburetor adjustments for smooth idle and optimal performance.
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Vehicle History
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Brand Heritage
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Brand Heritage:
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Citroën has a long history of innovation and avant-garde design, pioneered by André-Gustave Citroën. Known for models like the Traction Avant and the revolutionary DS.
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Model Evolution
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Model Evolution:
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The CX succeeded the iconic DS, inheriting its hydropneumatic suspension and front-wheel-drive. It featured a more modern, aerodynamic design. Key updates included Series 1 (1974-1985) and Series 2 (1985-1991), with the Series 2 receiving significant exterior and interior styling revisions, a new dashboard, and updated engines (including the PRV V6).
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Key Series 2 Updates:
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Revised grille, bumpers, headlights, new dashboard with more conventional instruments, improved seats, PRV V6 engine option, power steering improvements.
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Production
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Production Years:
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1974 - 1991
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Production Volume:
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Nearly 1.2 million units sold globally.
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Manufacturing Locations:
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Mainly France (Rennes-sur-Vilaine), also assembled in various other countries.
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