🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Citroën Model: BX Year: 1986 Market Segment: Compact Family Car / Small Family Car Codes Body Style Codes: XB (Hatchback) 👋 Introduction Market Position Positioning: The Citroën BX was positioned as a distinctive and technologically advanced hatchback, challenging established competitors with its unique design and hydropneumatic suspension. Competitive Analysis Key Competitors 1986: Volkswagen Golf, Ford Escort, Opel Kadett, Peugeot 309, Renault 9/11 Key Features Vehicle Suspension: Signature Citroën hydropneumatic suspension offering exceptional ride comfort and self-leveling capability. Aerodynamics: Striking, wedge-shaped aerodynamic design penned by Marcello Gandini of Bertone. Interior Design: Unconventional 'marmite' or 'mushroom' style controls and a futuristic dashboard layout. Manual Value Proposition Technician Equivalence: This manual is the identical reference used by dealership technicians, ensuring accuracy and completeness for all maintenance and repair tasks. Avoiding Generic Advice: Explicitly designed to provide vehicle-specific procedures, avoiding the pitfalls of generic repair guides. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas All Models And Trims: True Repair Scope: A-Z (Comprehensive) Page Count Estimated Pages: 600+ Manual Type Type: Official Factory Service Manual / Workshop Manual Language Language: English Format Format: Printed Book (Original or High-Quality Reprint) 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Powertrain: Engine, Fuel System, Ignition System, Exhaust System, Cooling System, Lubrication System Transmission: Manual Transmission, Automatic Transmission (if applicable), Clutch, Drivetrain (FWD) Chassis: Suspension (Hydropneumatic), Steering System, Brakes (Hydraulic, ABS if equipped), Wheels and Tires Electrical: Wiring Diagrams, Lighting System, Ignition System, Starting System, Charging System, Instrumentation, Accessories, ECUs (Engine Control Units) Body: Body Panels, Doors, Windows, Seats, Interior Trim, Exterior Trim, Bumpers, Corrosion Protection Procedures Included Routine Maintenance: Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Spark Plug Service, Fluid Checks and Top-offs, Belt Inspections Diagnostics: Troubleshooting Guides, Fault Code Identification (where applicable), Symptom-Based Diagnostics Repair And Rebuild: Engine Overhaul, Transmission Rebuild, Brake System Repair, Suspension Component Replacement, Electrical Component Repair Adjustments: Valve Clearances, Idle Speed, Clutch Adjustment, Suspension Ride Height Adjustment Component Replacement: Alternator, Starter Motor, Water Pump, Radiator, Fuel Pump, Brake Pads, Shock Absorbers, Bearings Technical Depth Depth: Expert Level (Technician Grade) Detail Level: Step-by-step instructions with torque specifications, special tool requirements, and detailed diagrams. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format Digital Format Notes: If digital, expected to be a searchable PDF with clear scans of original pages. Print Quality Print Quality: High-resolution printing for clear text and diagrams. Binding Type Binding: Professional binding (e.g., perfect binding, spiral binding for ease of use in a workshop). Paper Type Paper Quality: Durable paper suitable for workshop environments. ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Options 1986 Engine 1 Type: Inline-4, Petrol Engine 1 Displacement: 1.6 Liters (1580 cc) Engine 1 Fuel System: Single Carburetor (e.g., Solex 34-34 or similar) Engine 1 Power: Approx. 80-90 PS (DIN) Engine 2 Type: Inline-4, Petrol Engine 2 Displacement: 1.9 Liters (1905 cc) Engine 2 Fuel System: Dual Carburetor or Fuel Injection (depending on market/trim) Engine 2 Power: Approx. 105-125 PS (DIN) Engine 3 Type: Inline-4, Diesel Engine 3 Displacement: 1.9 Liters (1905 cc) Engine 3 Fuel System: Indirect Injection, Diesel Injection Pump Engine 3 Power: Approx. 60-70 PS (DIN) Performance Top Speed 1.6: Approx. 165 km/h Acceleration 0 100 Km H 1.6: Approx. 12-13 seconds Fuel System Carburetor Identification: Manual will detail specific carburetor models and their adjustment procedures. Injection System Types: EFI (Electronic Fuel Injection) systems covered where applicable, including component testing and diagnostics. 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Type Standard: 4-Speed Manual Transmission Optional Transmission Type Optional: 5-Speed Manual Transmission, 3-Speed Automatic Transmission (e.g., ZF 3HP22) Features Drivetrain: Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) Clutch Type: Hydraulically actuated, single dry plate clutch Gear Ratios: Detailed gear ratios for all available transmissions will be provided in the manual. Transmission Fluid Spec: Specific ATF (Automatic Transmission Fluid) and manual transmission oil specifications will be listed. 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length: Approx. 4,170 mm (164.2 in) Width: Approx. 1,660 mm (65.4 in) Height: Approx. 1,360 mm (53.5 in) (varies with suspension setting) Wheelbase: Approx. 2,600 mm (102.4 in) Weights Curb Weight: Approx. 1000-1150 kg (depending on engine and equipment) Gross Vehicle Weight Rating: Typically around 1400-1550 kg 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings Euro Ncap Rating: Euro NCAP was not established in 1986; no official ratings available. Active Features Braking System: Hydraulic disc brakes front and rear, with optional ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) on some models. Suspension Dynamics: Hydropneumatic suspension contributes to stable handling and road holding. Passive Features Seatbelts: Front seatbelts standard, rear seatbelts optional or standard depending on market. Body Structure: Reinforced safety cage structure, crumple zones. 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Radio Options: Various aftermarket or period-correct radio/cassette players were common. Original units were basic AM/FM. Driver Assistance ABS: Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was available on higher-spec models. Connectivity Connectivity Features: No modern connectivity features like Bluetooth or USB; focus is on core vehicle systems. Interior Controls Unique Controls: Distinctive 'marmite' or 'mushroom' shaped stalks for wipers, lights, and horn, plus fascia-mounted...
The Citroën BX was positioned as a distinctive and technologically advanced hatchback, challenging established competitors with its unique design and hydropneumatic suspension.
Competitive Analysis
Key Competitors 1986:
Volkswagen Golf, Ford Escort, Opel Kadett, Peugeot 309, Renault 9/11
Detailed gear ratios for all available transmissions will be provided in the manual.
Transmission Fluid Spec:
Specific ATF (Automatic Transmission Fluid) and manual transmission oil specifications will be listed.
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Length:
Approx. 4,170 mm (164.2 in)
Width:
Approx. 1,660 mm (65.4 in)
Height:
Approx. 1,360 mm (53.5 in) (varies with suspension setting)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2,600 mm (102.4 in)
Weights
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1000-1150 kg (depending on engine and equipment)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Typically around 1400-1550 kg
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
Euro Ncap Rating:
Euro NCAP was not established in 1986; no official ratings available.
Active Features
Braking System:
Hydraulic disc brakes front and rear, with optional ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) on some models.
Suspension Dynamics:
Hydropneumatic suspension contributes to stable handling and road holding.
Passive Features
Seatbelts:
Front seatbelts standard, rear seatbelts optional or standard depending on market.
Body Structure:
Reinforced safety cage structure, crumple zones.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Radio Options:
Various aftermarket or period-correct radio/cassette players were common. Original units were basic AM/FM.
Driver Assistance
ABS:
Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was available on higher-spec models.
Connectivity
Connectivity Features:
No modern connectivity features like Bluetooth or USB; focus is on core vehicle systems.
Interior Controls
Unique Controls:
Distinctive 'marmite' or 'mushroom' shaped stalks for wipers, lights, and horn, plus fascia-mounted ventilation controls.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval Petrol:
Typically every 5,000 - 7,500 km or 6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil specification.
Oil Change Interval Diesel:
Typically every 7,500 - 10,000 km or 6 months.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approximately every 20,000 - 30,000 km.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Crucial interval, typically every 50,000 - 60,000 km for petrol engines (refer to manual for exact specification).
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Grade:
Refer to manual for specific grades (e.g., SAE 10W-40, 15W-50), often requiring oils meeting API SF or SG specifications.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Manual specifies exact type and capacity.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Hydropneumatic Fluid Type:
LHM (Liquide Hydraulique Minéral) fluid. Manual specifies type and maintenance procedures.
Known Issues
Suspension Leaks:
Hydropneumatic spheres, seals, and lines can develop leaks over time, requiring specialized knowledge for repair.
Electrical Gremlins:
Older wiring harnesses and connections can be prone to corrosion and failure, leading to intermittent electrical issues.
Rust And Corrosion:
Like many cars of this era, rust can affect body panels, sills, and suspension components, particularly in humid climates.
Carburetor Tuning:
Carbureted engines may require periodic adjustment and cleaning for optimal performance and fuel economy.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Citroen Legacy:
Citroën has a long history of innovation in automotive engineering, particularly with its hydropneumatic suspension systems pioneered in the DS model.
Model Evolution
Bx Development:
The BX was developed as a successor to the Citroën GS/GSA and was designed to be more conventional in some aspects while retaining signature Citroën technologies.
Bx Facelift:
The 1986 model year represents a period before the significant 1988 facelift, retaining the original styling and interior features.
Production
Production Period:
1982-1987 (Series 1)
Manufacturing Locations:
France ( utama), also produced in Vigo, Spain and other locations under license.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Design Awards:
While not winning a specific 'Car of the Year' award, the BX's design by Marcello Gandini was widely praised for its originality and aerodynamic efficiency.
Ratings
Reliability Perception:
Reliability perception varied, often dependent on proper maintenance of the complex hydropneumatic system. This manual is key to addressing that.
Choosing a selection results in a full page refresh.