Introduction
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Market Position
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Positioning:
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The Citroën BX was positioned as a distinctive and technologically advanced hatchback, challenging established competitors with its unique design and hydropneumatic suspension.
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Competitive Analysis
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Key Competitors 1986:
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Volkswagen Golf, Ford Escort, Opel Kadett, Peugeot 309, Renault 9/11
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Key Features Vehicle
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Suspension:
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Signature Citroën hydropneumatic suspension offering exceptional ride comfort and self-leveling capability.
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Aerodynamics:
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Striking, wedge-shaped aerodynamic design penned by Marcello Gandini of Bertone.
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Interior Design:
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Unconventional 'marmite' or 'mushroom' style controls and a futuristic dashboard layout.
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Manual Value Proposition
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Technician Equivalence:
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This manual is the identical reference used by dealership technicians, ensuring accuracy and completeness for all maintenance and repair tasks.
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Avoiding Generic Advice:
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Explicitly designed to provide vehicle-specific procedures, avoiding the pitfalls of generic repair guides.
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Manual Coverage
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Systems Covered
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Powertrain:
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Engine, Fuel System, Ignition System, Exhaust System, Cooling System, Lubrication System
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Transmission:
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Manual Transmission, Automatic Transmission (if applicable), Clutch, Drivetrain (FWD)
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Chassis:
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Suspension (Hydropneumatic), Steering System, Brakes (Hydraulic, ABS if equipped), Wheels and Tires
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Electrical:
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Wiring Diagrams, Lighting System, Ignition System, Starting System, Charging System, Instrumentation, Accessories, ECUs (Engine Control Units)
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Body:
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Body Panels, Doors, Windows, Seats, Interior Trim, Exterior Trim, Bumpers, Corrosion Protection
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Procedures Included
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Routine Maintenance:
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Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Spark Plug Service, Fluid Checks and Top-offs, Belt Inspections
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Diagnostics:
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Troubleshooting Guides, Fault Code Identification (where applicable), Symptom-Based Diagnostics
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Repair And Rebuild:
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Engine Overhaul, Transmission Rebuild, Brake System Repair, Suspension Component Replacement, Electrical Component Repair
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Adjustments:
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Valve Clearances, Idle Speed, Clutch Adjustment, Suspension Ride Height Adjustment
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Component Replacement:
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Alternator, Starter Motor, Water Pump, Radiator, Fuel Pump, Brake Pads, Shock Absorbers, Bearings
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Technical Depth
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Depth:
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Expert Level (Technician Grade)
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Detail Level:
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Step-by-step instructions with torque specifications, special tool requirements, and detailed diagrams.
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Engine Specifications
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Primary Engine Options 1986
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Engine 1 Type:
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Inline-4, Petrol
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Engine 1 Displacement:
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1.6 Liters (1580 cc)
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Engine 1 Fuel System:
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Single Carburetor (e.g., Solex 34-34 or similar)
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Engine 1 Power:
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Approx. 80-90 PS (DIN)
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Engine 2 Type:
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Inline-4, Petrol
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Engine 2 Displacement:
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1.9 Liters (1905 cc)
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Engine 2 Fuel System:
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Dual Carburetor or Fuel Injection (depending on market/trim)
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Engine 2 Power:
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Approx. 105-125 PS (DIN)
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Engine 3 Type:
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Inline-4, Diesel
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Engine 3 Displacement:
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1.9 Liters (1905 cc)
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Engine 3 Fuel System:
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Indirect Injection, Diesel Injection Pump
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Engine 3 Power:
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Approx. 60-70 PS (DIN)
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Performance
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Top Speed 1.6:
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Approx. 165 km/h
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Acceleration 0 100 Km H 1.6:
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Approx. 12-13 seconds
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Fuel System
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Carburetor Identification:
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Manual will detail specific carburetor models and their adjustment procedures.
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Injection System Types:
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EFI (Electronic Fuel Injection) systems covered where applicable, including component testing and diagnostics.
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Transmission
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Standard
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Transmission Type Standard:
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4-Speed Manual Transmission
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Optional
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Transmission Type Optional:
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5-Speed Manual Transmission, 3-Speed Automatic Transmission (e.g., ZF 3HP22)
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Features
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Drivetrain:
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Front-Wheel Drive (FWD)
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Clutch Type:
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Hydraulically actuated, single dry plate clutch
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Gear Ratios:
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Detailed gear ratios for all available transmissions will be provided in the manual.
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Transmission Fluid Spec:
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Specific ATF (Automatic Transmission Fluid) and manual transmission oil specifications will be listed.
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Dimensions
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Exterior
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Length:
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Approx. 4,170 mm (164.2 in)
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Width:
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Approx. 1,660 mm (65.4 in)
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Height:
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Approx. 1,360 mm (53.5 in) (varies with suspension setting)
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Wheelbase:
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Approx. 2,600 mm (102.4 in)
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Weights
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Curb Weight:
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Approx. 1000-1150 kg (depending on engine and equipment)
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Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
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Typically around 1400-1550 kg
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Maintenance
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Service Intervals
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Oil Change Interval Petrol:
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Typically every 5,000 - 7,500 km or 6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil specification.
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Oil Change Interval Diesel:
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Typically every 7,500 - 10,000 km or 6 months.
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Spark Plug Replacement:
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Approximately every 20,000 - 30,000 km.
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Timing Belt Replacement:
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Crucial interval, typically every 50,000 - 60,000 km for petrol engines (refer to manual for exact specification).
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Fluid Specifications
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Engine Oil Grade:
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Refer to manual for specific grades (e.g., SAE 10W-40, 15W-50), often requiring oils meeting API SF or SG specifications.
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Coolant Type:
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Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Manual specifies exact type and capacity.
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Brake Fluid Type:
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DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
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Hydropneumatic Fluid Type:
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LHM (Liquide Hydraulique Minéral) fluid. Manual specifies type and maintenance procedures.
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Known Issues
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Suspension Leaks:
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Hydropneumatic spheres, seals, and lines can develop leaks over time, requiring specialized knowledge for repair.
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Electrical Gremlins:
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Older wiring harnesses and connections can be prone to corrosion and failure, leading to intermittent electrical issues.
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Rust And Corrosion:
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Like many cars of this era, rust can affect body panels, sills, and suspension components, particularly in humid climates.
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Carburetor Tuning:
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Carbureted engines may require periodic adjustment and cleaning for optimal performance and fuel economy.
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