๐ท๏ธ Basic Information Identification Make: Citroรซn Model: AX Year: 1996 Generation Generation Identifier: First Generation (Facelift) Codes Chassis Code: ZA, ZT, X ๐ Introduction Market Position Category: Subcompact hatchback Era: Late 1980s - 1990s Competitive Analysis Key Competitors: Peugeot 205, Renault Clio, Ford Fiesta, Volkswagen Polo. Key Features Design Philosophy: Lightweight, economical, agile city car. Popularity: Known for its distinctive styling, good handling, and value for money. ๐ Manual Details Coverage Areas Countries Of Origin: France Primary Markets: Europe Page Count Estimated Page Count: Likely 500+ pages (typical for full service manuals) Manual Type Type: Full Service and Repair Manual Language Language: English Format Format: PDF Delivery Method: Instant Download Printability: Full Printable Software Requirements: Adobe PDF Reader, WinRAR Compatibility: Windows, Mac ๐ Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine: Detailed diagnostics, repair, rebuild of all petrol and diesel engines for the 1996 model year. Fuel System: Carburetor and fuel injection systems, fuel pumps, lines, filters, emissions control. Ignition System: Distributor, ignition coils, spark plugs, timing adjustments, electronic ignition components. Transmission: Manual and automatic transmission repair, clutch replacement, gear shift linkage, internal component overhauls. Drivetrain: Front-wheel drive, CV joints, driveshafts, differential repairs. Suspension: Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, steering knuckle, alignment procedures. Steering: Steering rack, power steering system (if equipped), steering column, wheel alignment. Brakes: Front and rear brake systems (disc/drum), master cylinder, brake lines, calipers, wheel cylinders, parking brake, hydraulic system diagnostics. Electrical System: Complete wiring diagrams, alternator, starter motor, battery, lighting system, fuses, relays, dashboard instrumentation, power windows/locks (if equipped). Cooling System: Radiator, fan, thermostat, water pump, coolant hoses, heater core, temperature sensors. Exhaust System: Exhaust manifold, catalytic converter, mufflers, pipes, hangers, emissions components. Bodywork: Body panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, hood and trunk latches, glass replacement, interior trim. HVAC: Heating system, ventilation, and air conditioning (if equipped) diagnosis and repair. Procedures Included Maintenance: Regular service schedules, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, fluid checks and top-offs. Diagnostics: Troubleshooting common problems, identifying fault codes (if applicable), diagnostic flowcharts. Repair: Step-by-step repair instructions for all major systems and components. Rebuilding: Comprehensive procedures for engine, transmission, and other major component rebuilds. Refurbishment: Guidance on restoring various aspects of the vehicle. Restoration: Detailed procedures for bringing a vehicle back to its original condition. Wiring Diagrams: Detailed and combined with electrical service procedures for ease of use. Technical Depth Depth: Covers information used by professional technicians, with adequate data for DIY mechanics. Detail Level: Detailed sub-steps expand on repair procedure information, with notes, cautions, and warnings. Illustrations: Detailed illustrations, drawings, and photos guide through every procedure, with enlarged insets for detailed part examination. ๐ Manual Specifications File Format Format: PDF Print Quality Quality: High quality, suitable for printing. Binding Type Binding: N/A (Digital Download) Paper Type Paper: N/A (Digital Download) โ๏ธ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Options 1996: 1.0L (TU9), 1.1L (TU1), 1.4L (TU3), 1.4L Diesel (TUD3). Engine Code Example 1: TU1 M (Multi-point injection) Performance Power Output Range: Approximately 45-75 hp (petrol), 50-53 hp (diesel). Torque Range: Approximately 70-110 Nm (petrol), 90-100 Nm (diesel). Fuel System Injection Type: Single-point injection (SPI), Multi-point injection (MPI), Carburettor (older variants). Fuel Type: Unleaded Petrol, Diesel ๐ง Transmission Standard Transmission Type Standard: 5-speed manual Optional Transmission Type Optional: 3-speed automatic (less common) Features Gearbox Type: Citroรซn's internal TU series gearboxes. ๐ Dimensions Exterior Length: Approx. 3,640 mm (143.3 in) Width: Approx. 1,620 mm (63.8 in) Height: Approx. 1,340 mm (52.8 in) Weights Curb Weight: Approx. 750-850 kg (depending on engine and trim) ๐ก๏ธ Safety Features Ratings Euro Ncap Rating: Not applicable for this model year/era. Active Features ABS: Optional on some higher trims. Passive Features Airbags: Driver's airbag optional or standard on later models, passenger airbag generally not available. ๐ก Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: Basic radio and cassette player, often with optional CD player. Speaker configuration typically 2 or 4. Driver Assistance Traction Control: Not typically available on this model year. Connectivity Bluetooth: Not available. ๐ง Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Typically every 10,000 - 15,000 km or 12 months, refer to manual for exact spec. Timing Belt Interval: Crucial for TU engines; usually 80,000 - 120,000 km or 5-7 years. Manual will specify exact interval and potential replacement of water pump. Fluid Specifications Engine Oil: Refer to manual for specific viscosity (e.g., 10W-40, 15W-40) and API/ACEA specifications based on engine type. Coolant: Antifreeze/coolant concentrate (typically ethylene glycol based), mixed with distilled water. Specific type (e.g., G11) should be confirmed in manual. Brake Fluid: DOT 3 or DOT 4, depending on system specifications. Must be changed periodically (e.g., every 2 years). Transmission Fluid: Manual transmission fluid (GL-4 specification, e.g., SAE 75W-80 or 80W-90) or automatic transmission fluid (ATF) for automatic variants. Capacity and type are critical. Known Issues Common Problems Engine: Oil leaks from seals, distributor wear, carburetor...
Driver's airbag optional or standard on later models, passenger airbag generally not available.
๐ก Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Basic radio and cassette player, often with optional CD player. Speaker configuration typically 2 or 4.
Driver Assistance
Traction Control:
Not typically available on this model year.
Connectivity
Bluetooth:
Not available.
๐ง Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 10,000 - 15,000 km or 12 months, refer to manual for exact spec.
Timing Belt Interval:
Crucial for TU engines; usually 80,000 - 120,000 km or 5-7 years. Manual will specify exact interval and potential replacement of water pump.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil:
Refer to manual for specific viscosity (e.g., 10W-40, 15W-40) and API/ACEA specifications based on engine type.
Coolant:
Antifreeze/coolant concentrate (typically ethylene glycol based), mixed with distilled water. Specific type (e.g., G11) should be confirmed in manual.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4, depending on system specifications. Must be changed periodically (e.g., every 2 years).
Transmission Fluid:
Manual transmission fluid (GL-4 specification, e.g., SAE 75W-80 or 80W-90) or automatic transmission fluid (ATF) for automatic variants. Capacity and type are critical.
Known Issues
Common Problems Engine:
Oil leaks from seals, distributor wear, carburetor issues on older models, timing belt failure if not replaced.
Common Problems Suspension:
Wear in suspension bushes, noisy ball joints, rear torsion beam issues (less common on this model year).
Common Problems Electrical:
Corrosion on electrical connectors, dashboard warning light malfunctions, issues with window regulators.
Common Problems Rust:
Vulnerable areas include wheel arches, sills, and rear valence.
๐ Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Citroen Ethos:
Known for innovative design, comfort-oriented suspension, and front-wheel-drive expertise.
Model Evolution
First Generation:
Launched in 1986.
Facelift:
The 1996 model falls into the facelifted version, which introduced minor styling updates and improved interior features.
Production
Production Years:
1986 โ 1998
Manufacturing Plants:
Primarily France (Aulnay-sous-Bois), also Spain and Slovenia.