Introduction
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Market Position
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Segment:
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Executive Car / Large Family Car
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Era:
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Designed as a technological showcase for Citroën in the late 80s and early 90s.
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Competitive Analysis
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Competitors:
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Competed with vehicles like the BMW 5 Series, Mercedes-Benz E-Class, Audi 100/A6, and Peugeot 605.
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Key Features
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Suspension:
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Groundbreaking Hydractive 2 hydropneumatic suspension system offering exceptional ride comfort and handling adaptability.
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Aerodynamics:
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Highly aerodynamic design with a low drag coefficient (Cd) for its time.
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Interior Design:
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Distinctive, avant-garde interior design with unique controls and materials.
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Safety:
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Early adoption of advanced safety features, including ABS and reinforced safety cage.
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Manual Coverage
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Systems Covered
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Engine:
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Covers all engine variants including petrol and diesel. Specifics for 2.0L (XU10J2), 2.1L TD (XUD11ATE), 3.0L V6 (PRV ZPJ/ZPJ2) engines.
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Transmission:
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Manual and Automatic transmissions. Detailed diagnostics, repair, and overhaul procedures.
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Suspension:
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Hydropneumatic suspension (Hydractive 2) system. Includes sphere maintenance, pressure regulation, height control, and component replacement.
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Brakes:
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Hydraulic system, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) diagnostics and repair, component replacement (calipers, discs, lines, master cylinder).
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Electrical System:
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Complete electrical system schematics, wiring diagrams, component testing, fuse and relay locations, body control modules.
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Bodywork:
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Panel repair, door mechanisms, sunroof operation, trim removal and installation, corrosion prevention.
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Cooling System:
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Radiator, fans, thermostat, coolant types and capacities, bleeding procedures.
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Fuel System:
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Fuel injection systems (Bosch Motronic, Lucas), fuel pumps, injectors, fuel pressure testing, exhaust systems.
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Steering:
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Power steering system, steering rack, column, and universal joints.
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HVAC:
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Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning system diagnostics and repair.
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Procedures Included
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Routine Maintenance:
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Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement, fluid level checks.
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Troubleshooting:
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Diagnostic flowcharts and symptom-based troubleshooting for common issues across all systems.
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Engine Repair:
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Engine overhaul, cylinder head removal and reassembly, piston and ring replacement, valve adjustments.
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Transmission Repair:
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Clutch replacement (manual), torque converter service (automatic), gearbox overhaul.
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Suspension Repair:
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Hydropneumatic sphere replacement, strut replacement, hydraulic fluid flushing and refilling, ride height adjustment.
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Brake Repair:
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Brake pad and disc replacement, caliper overhaul, hydraulic line bleeding, ABS sensor testing and replacement.
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Electrical Diagnostics:
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Testing of sensors, actuators, ECUs, wiring harness repair, component identification.
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Body Panel Replacement:
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Removal and installation of fenders, doors, hood, trunk lid, bumpers.
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Interior Trim Removal:
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Dash panel, door panels, headliner, seat removal and installation.
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Technical Depth
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Depth:
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Comprehensive, suitable for professional mechanics and advanced DIY enthusiasts. Covers everything from basic maintenance to complete component rebuilds and complex diagnostics.
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Maintenance
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Service Intervals
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Oil Change Interval:
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Every 10,000 km or 12 months (whichever comes first).
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Air Filter Replacement:
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Every 20,000 km or 24 months.
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Spark Plug Replacement:
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Every 40,000 km for standard spark plugs, 80,000 km for long-life iridium plugs (if applicable).
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Timing Belt Replacement:
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Every 60,000 km or 5 years for petrol engines (XU10, ZPJ); 120,000 km or 7 years for diesel engines (XUD11ATE). Critical due to potential for interference engine damage.
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Fluid Specifications
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Engine Oil Grade:
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10W-40 or 5W-40 (synthetic recommended) API SG/SH or ACEA A2/A3
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Engine Oil Capacity:
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Approx. 4.5 - 5.5 litres (depending on engine)
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Coolant Type:
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Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze, long-life type, blue or green (PSA specification)
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Brake Fluid Type:
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DOT 4
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Hydropneumatic Fluid:
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LHM Plus (Citroën Hydropneumatic Fluid) - Green colored fluid
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Known Issues
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Hydropneumatic System:
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Leaking spheres, pump wear, height corrector faults, electrical system issues related to height sensors.
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Electrical System:
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Corrosion in connectors, failure of dashboard instruments, issues with central locking and alarm systems.
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Engine Management:
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Lambda sensor failures, idle control valve issues, ECU problems, particularly on early models.
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Cooling System:
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Radiator leaks, fan motor failure, thermostat housing leaks.
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Body Rust:
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Can be prone to rust in wheel arches, sills, and around the rear screen, especially in areas with winter salt use.
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