🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Citroën Model: CX Year: 1985 Codes Chassis Code: CX 20/22/25 👋 Introduction Market Position Segment: Executive Sedan, known for its avant-garde design and advanced technology Competitive Analysis Key Competitors: Mercedes-Benz W123, BMW 5 Series (E28), Peugeot 604 Key Features Suspension Type: Citroën's signature hydropneumatic suspension Steering Type: Hydraulic power steering (DIRAVI - Direction Assistée à Rappel asservi à la Vitesse) Design: Aerodynamic 'fastback' styling by Robert Opron Interior: Unconventional dashboard layout, often referred to as the 'Joker' dashboard Safety Innovations: Inertia reel seat belts, padded interior, energy-absorbing crumple zones 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Documentation Scope: Complete factory service and repair coverage Page Count Estimated Pages: Hundreds of pages (printable) Manual Type Type: Factory Service Repair Manual Language Language: Likely English (typical for translated factory manuals) Format Format: Downloadable PDF 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine: Detailed diagnosis, repair, and overhaul procedures for all engine variants Transmission: Manual and automatic transmission service, repair, and adjustment Suspension: Hydropneumatic suspension system diagnosis, bleeding, refilling, and component replacement Brakes: Hydraulic system, disc brakes, parking brake, and Hydropneumatic brake system service Steering: Power steering system diagnosis, repair, and component replacement Electrical: Wiring diagrams, troubleshooting guides, component testing, and repair for all electrical systems Cooling System: Radiator, fan, thermostat, and coolant system maintenance and repair Fuel System: Carburetor/injection system service, fuel pump, lines, and tank maintenance Exhaust System: Muffler, catalytic converter, and exhaust pipe repair and replacement Body And Chassis: Body panel repair, door mechanisms, glass replacement, and chassis component maintenance Climate Control: HVAC system diagnosis and repair Procedures Included Maintenance: Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements Troubleshooting: Diagnostic flowcharts and symptom-based troubleshooting guides Repair: Step-by-step repair instructions for all major components and systems Overhaul: Complete engine, transmission, and component overhaul procedures Adjustment: Carburetor, ignition timing, clutch, and brake adjustments Calibration: Suspension height, brake pressure regulator, and other calibration procedures Electrical Diagnostics: Circuit testing, component diagnostics, and wiring harness repair Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive from basic maintenance to complete engine rebuilds and advanced diagnostics 📊 Manual Specifications File Format File Type: PDF Searchability: Text-searchable PDF Print Quality Printability: High-resolution, printable pages Binding Type Binding: Not applicable (digital download) Paper Type Paper Quality: Not applicable (digital download) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Variants: 1.9L (1905cc) and 2.2L (2175cc) 4-cylinder petrol; 2.5L (2500cc) 4-cylinder diesel Engine Codes: Typ. XY7 (1.9), XY8 (2.2), XD2 (2.5 Diesel) Performance Horsepower 1.9L Petrol: Approx. 106 PS (DIN) Torque 1.9L Petrol: Approx. 153 Nm (DIN) Horsepower 2.5L Diesel: Approx. 75 PS (DIN) Torque 2.5L Diesel: Approx. 137 Nm (DIN) Fuel System Injection Type: Bosch L-Jetronic (later models) or Weber carburetors (earlier models) Fuel Type: Unleaded Petrol (RON 95/98) / Diesel 🔧 Transmission Standard Gearbox Options: 4-speed manual, 5-speed manual (optional on some models) Optional Automatic Transmission: 3-speed ZF automatic transmission (optional) Features Clutch: Hydraulic actuation 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length: Approx. 4.64 m (182.7 in) Width: Approx. 1.77 m (69.7 in) Height: Approx. 1.37 m (53.9 in) Wheelbase: Approx. 3.07 m (120.9 in) Weights Curb Weight: Approx. 1300-1500 kg (depending on model and equipment) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings Crash Test Data: Limited formal crash test data from this era, but designed with advanced safety features for its time. Active Features Braking System: Four-wheel disc brakes, often with a pressure regulator linked to the suspension Passive Features Seat Belts: Inertia-reel front seat belts Airbag: Not available Impact Structure: Energy-absorbing steering column and dashboard 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Radio Cassette: Optional factory-fitted or dealer-installed radio and cassette players. Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Available as an option on higher trim levels. Connectivity Original Features: Focus on ride comfort and steering precision rather than electronic connectivity as understood today. 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change: Typically every 5,000-7,500 km (3,000-5,000 miles) or 6-12 months, check manual for specific grades. Transmission Fluid: Check level periodically; replacement intervals vary, consult manual. Suspension Fluid: Hydropneumatic fluid (LHM) requires periodic flushing and replacement, typically every 50,000-80,000 km. Fluid Specifications Engine Oil: Refer to manual for viscosity (e.g., 10W-40 or 15W-50) and API service classification. Capacity approx. 4.5-5 liters. Transmission Fluid Manual: GL-4 gear oil, e.g., SAE 75W-90. Capacity approx. 2.0 liters. Transmission Fluid Automatic: Dexron III or equivalent. Capacity approx. 3.0 liters. Coolant: Ethylene glycol based antifreeze, 50/50 mix with distilled water. Capacity approx. 8-10 liters. Brake Fluid: DOT 3 or DOT 4. Capacity approx. 1 liter. Suspension Fluid: Citroën LHM (Mineral hydraulic fluid). Capacity approx. 6-7 liters. Known Issues Hydropneumatic System: Leakage from spheres, hoses, or pump; loss of ride height; strut leaks; DIRAVI steering problems. Electrical System: Corrosion in connectors, aging wiring harnesses, issues with the 'Joker' dashboard controls. Engine: Timing belt wear (especially on petrol engines), carburetor issues, diesel engine glow plug problems. Bodywork: Rust in wheel arches, sills, and around windows due to age. 📚 Vehicle History Brand Heritage Citroen Legacy:...
Leakage from spheres, hoses, or pump; loss of ride height; strut leaks; DIRAVI steering problems.
Electrical System:
Corrosion in connectors, aging wiring harnesses, issues with the 'Joker' dashboard controls.
Engine:
Timing belt wear (especially on petrol engines), carburetor issues, diesel engine glow plug problems.
Bodywork:
Rust in wheel arches, sills, and around windows due to age.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Citroen Legacy:
Citroën is renowned for its innovative and avant-garde automotive engineering, particularly in suspension and aerodynamics.
Model Evolution
Cx Development:
Successor to the iconic Citroën DS, carrying forward the hydropneumatic suspension and distinctive styling.
Facelift Timing:
The CX underwent a significant facelift in 1982 (Series 2), introducing updated styling and interior refinements. The 1985 model falls within this Series 2 era.
Production
Production Period:
1974-1991
Manufacturing Location:
France
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Automotive Awards:
European Car of the Year 1975 (for the CX model range, not specifically the 1985 variant, but indicative of its design and engineering merit).
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