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The Citroen XM Internet Reference The Citroen XM Internet Reference This set of pages is dedicated to all of those internet folks who have contributed to the XM mailing list XM-L. These pages have been sourced from many areas but mostly from the XM-L mailing list and Citroen Car Club members.
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The Citroen XM Internet Reference Citroen XM Internet Reference Version 1.0 3/3/99...
Wet boot problem Windscreen Washer empty warning always displayed XM won’t start The Body Alloy Wheel Refurbishment Blowout Door hinges Grinding noise from front of car Headlights Michelin tyres Outside temperature sensor whereabouts Citroen XM Internet Reference Version 1.0 3/3/99...
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Clicking Hydralic pump Comfort Spheres Diravi on an XM Electro-valve and hard ride Electro-valve diagnostic Hard suspension Height correctors How to change the spheres Hydractive 1 and Hydractive 2 explained Hydractive 2 suspension Hydraflush Citroen XM Internet Reference Version 1.0 3/3/99...
Brakes not working Front brake pads Loss of Brakes Parking Brakes Warped front discs Auto and manual gearboxes Auto Box Auto gearbox oil level Clutch slip in Auto Gearbox Clutch difficult to operate Gearbox Citroen XM Internet Reference Version 1.0 3/3/99...
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Genuine & Aftermarket parts Powersteering problems Prices RP (Replacement Parts) Numbers RP numbers Series 2 inside looks Spares to carry The first XM club Total failure Who designed what XM Prestige XM Replacement Citroen XM Internet Reference Version 1.0 3/3/99...
1 Alarm Alarm Dear Groupsters, Does anyone out there know how to disable the alarm system on my 1993 XM 2.0i Turbo? It gives so many false alarms now, it is pointless having it on anymore..Thanking you in anticipation of your help, Keith Citroen XM Internet Reference Version 1.0...
’frequency drift’. Whether this is true or not, cannot be easily checked without access to a frquency scanner/transmitter. The solution seems to be to fit a new unit (including key fobs -the internal pcbs can be exchanged) for which Citroen offer a ’kit’. Citroen XM Internet Reference Version 1.0 3/3/99...
The ICE controls are connected via a little plug/socket which is housed with in a recess in the wheel behind the cover. Be careful not to damage the printed circuit board that the socket is housed on. Keith Citroen XM Internet Reference Version 1.0 3/3/99...
Who was it said that later XM’s are reliable? I have had three from new and they have all been poor quality. I wonder whether I should go back to a boring old Granada next time, at least it held together!
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The instrument panel can now be removed. Bulbs, etc. can easily be replaced as they are twist-off bulbs and spares are available from Halfords. (Thanks to John Michigan) Citroen XM Internet Reference Version 1.0 3/3/99...
The Electrics, Dashboard and Heater Dip-Dip failure I own a 1992 XM 2.1 turbo diesel auto. Recently, the dim-dip, which operated when the sidelights and the ignition were both on, has stopped working. I assume that somewhere, there is a little black box (a resistor pack?) which has died.
First Citroen said it was not possible ! "Don’t you mean CX sir "? "Or BX ?" " But there are no XM’s sold yet in Belgium (Holland) sir, are you sure it’s an XM ?"..Bla...bla...bla... "I don’t think we can fix it sir...!"...
If required, full details of the terminal connections I have made can be supplied for the cost of a stamped addressed envelope but my method was to adhere to the same relative positioning as shown m the Citroen suspension wiring diagram XM 580-00/20a. (Thanks to Jim Davidson and the CCC) Citroen XM Internet Reference Version 1.0...
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Krakow's bumpy pave. To cut a long story short, the problem was traced to the main multi-block connections to 'the brain' or computer, without which your XM will not function. With the ignition off, wiggle the connectors, and back comes the automatic control of the suspension.
’pcb’ is coated with grease, which then traps the dirt! The contacts are not ’wipers’ but are ’ball’ shaped, which can ride up on any dirt particles which are then trapped! Citroen XM Internet Reference Version 1.0 3/3/99...
The easiest way to mend the one-touch switch on the drivers side is to buy a new one!! Window winder broken “On my XM 2.0i (1989) I also have a problem with the one touch window switch, but replacing the switch with a brand new one (I didn’t had to pay for it) didn’t change a thing.
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Repairing the rear window When I bought my XM the passenger side rear window wasn’t operating. I had to replace the two plastic clips that attach to the glass. Here’s what I did to replace them, once I had removed the interior door...
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====== Electric window not winding When I bought my XM the passenger side rear window wasn’t operating. I had to replace the two plastic clips that attach to the glass. I bought these from my local Citroen dealer. Here’s what I did to replace them, once I had removed the interior door panel: To replace the plastic central window guide, which fixes onto the bottom of the window, undo the three bolts holding the winder motor and remove the motor, cables and guide rail assembly.
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The Electrics, Dashboard and Heater This is a *very* common problem on all pre-94 XM’s. I doubt you will ever make it go as fast as the drivers side. Mine is gripped too tightly by the door trim - any dirt therein even scratches the glass! A good polish of the glass normally helps - but if you get any better ideas, I’ll take another look at mine!
I had a sneaky feeling that someone with a knowledge of electronics might have found the fault, though without the appropriate test gear, it might be very difficult. (Thanks to Nick Dunsford and the CCC) Citroen XM Internet Reference Version 1.0 3/3/99...
I resorted to swearing and hefty thumps with my fist! The problem is getting all the lugs on the sides and back to all go over the metal lip together. Citroen XM Internet Reference Version 1.0 3/3/99...
I eventually found a secondhand motor in a scrapyard - but they even wanted £50 for that! It seems that scrapyards buy XM for very little, but then charge prices that reflect the new high prices.
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Sometimes Breakers will let you try the device you suspect before purchase. Blower always stuck on full My XM’s blower stuck on full, then stuck on off unless switched to full. The cure was to replace the control board on the motor. I actually replaced the whole motor because a secondhand motor was 30 UK pounds cheaper than a new control board.
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====== Dear David, Following our recent telephone conversation regarding the heater fan on my 1990 XM 2.0 Si, I promised to inform you of the outcome, so here it is. You may remember the problem was that following a prolonged period of running on fan position 3, the fan continued to run at that.
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(FW26025A) were not recognised but two MJ15004, 140V, 20A, 200W P .N.P . transistors were obtained, fitted and the system re-assembled and checked. I think the fan runs slightly slower now but it is working properly. Citroen XM Internet Reference Version 1.0 3/3/99...
(2) where in the UK breaks XM’s Being relativly new to the XM - my elderly model has been around for a year- I was surprised how quick it is point-to-point for such a heavy car with such a small ( and in my case 8 valve) engine. Which raises...
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The Electrics, Dashboard and Heater Heater fan fault finding and solution Heater fan on a 1990 XM 2.0Si. The problem was that following a prolonged period of running on fan position three, the fan continued to run at that speed irrespective of switch selection. My "Electrical Friend" checked out the switch and as far as possible the relevant relays (which were slightly different to those shown in the Revue Technique diagrams).
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I am praying Andy got it right I'll be praying extra fervently in mid-June, when the new matrix will have been in service for those fateful three months. (Thanks to Dave Weber) Citroen XM Internet Reference Version 1.0 3/3/99...
==== On my xm remove the right hand cover on the centre consul by undoing the two screws on the heater vent and one nut back by the seat. You will then see the end of the matrix held in by two selftapping screws and pipes are held on by one screw if my memory is right.
Wet floor - heater matrix There is an inherent problem with the failure of the heater matrix on XM’s. You may be fortunate that it is only the O-ring seals that are leaking, or it may be the matrix that has died. The easy way to find out is to look at your water level in the tank.
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I only know because someone told me on this mail list a few months ago. The drain pipe is situated under the car, level with the dash, to the left(seen from inside the car)of the exhaust, so I’ve been told. I’m having it done this week as my XM is in for its MOT and service. ======...
Oil level indicator >The oil guage on my XM has never really worked - mostly stays where it is when I turn on the ignition. >Has anybody got any idea where the pressure sensor is? The oil guage is a level indicator not a pressure guage.
17 Key Plip Does anyone know where I can get a replacement pcb for the XM plip (1991, key folds back into plip) in the UK at a reasonable price, or what the price is from a dealer. If I call and ask I may have a heart...
Fuel Pump problems If your XM won't start but turns over perfectly happily and it behaves as though it has run out of petrol, you have the dreaded electrical problem concerning the supply to the fuel pump. Try jiggling the electrical connectors/leads that go under the LHM tank.
==== A word of warning. I once bought a CD player for my XM which would fit in the slot below the existing radio. It would not work because of the steep angle of the housing. Most CD players will only work up to a certain angle from the horizontal or vertical depending upon design so check before buying.
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Diversity is in fact concerned with picking up the best possible signal for your radio. Most of us know that XM’s have two aerials, one on the roof and also the rear screen heater element. The radio unit in the centre console has two tuners which are always tuned into the same frequency, the frequency that you select.
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Does anybody know if the lights/illumination bulbs can be replaced on the "Diversity" range of audio systems on an XM Turbo Prestige 1994. The left - hand side of the unit is not lit, and having just disassembled the dash to replace all the bulbs including the LED’s on the dot matrix, I was wondering if...
I have found a cure for the irritating message which pops up from time to time when indicating. I have had my XM since May, and soon after taking it over I was receiving these erroneous messages and followed the advice of cleaning the contacts and putting vaseline on them. It was only a matter of weeks before i was getting the same message again, so I repeated the process.
XM Registrar, CCC (UK) Plymouth. Devon <http://welcome.to/linzell_world> ====== Did Mark Linzell with the little old red-XM try talking to that other XM mechanic man - Andy Burnett? Always worth a try for anything (big) Cit especially. Citroen XM Internet Reference Version 1.0 3/3/99...
45 minutes. You need to remove the instrument panel and disconnect the speedo cable at the head end. Ten unscrew the cable where it joins the other down cable in the engine bay. Citroen XM Internet Reference Version 1.0 3/3/99...
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Am I right and if so where is the sensor? ==== The earlier Mk1 XM’s had standard speedometer cables passed across the back of the dash to suit RHD and this did cause much needle jitter.
Stop lights (*!*) I had the same fault in my XM I solved it by running two new earth wire from the rear bulb holder earth to a good earth point, in the later cars they had it already done bry k faulkner Citroen XM Internet Reference Version 1.0...
I personally hate car alarms and feel that the immobilises and decent deadlocks are the answer. Who takes any notice of car alarms anyway? I notice Tom was not arrested or questioned by the authorities. Citroen XM Internet Reference Version 1.0 3/3/99...
It is situated behind the thermostate on the right side of the cilinder head. There are 3 sensors , one for water temp. indication, one for water too hot warning, and one for giving watertemp. signals to the computer. Each has a different color. I don’t know which color you should pick. Citroen XM Internet Reference Version 1.0 3/3/99...
If you have asun roof and the drains are bloked then water spills out into the boot did this on my bx gti and on my xm ,fiddly to clear but it cured my problem,(in the bx you could hear the water in the rear roof pillers.
Washer needs filling warning. “Washer needs filling” warning is a common fault on earlier XM’s. Remove washer reservoir from nearside wing. (bolt under air cleaner then wheel arch liner out.) Washer level sensor will be badly corroded. It may respond to cleaning up but may need to be replaced.
I have quite an urgent problem. I live in the countryside and just as I really needed my car to get into the town it won’t start. The car is a XM -90, injection multipoint. What happens is that the starterengine turns around OK, but the engine fails to ignite.
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The Electrics, Dashboard and Heater 28 XM won’t start Citroen XM Internet Reference Version 1.0 3/3/99...
29 Alloy Wheel Refurbishment 29 Alloy Wheel Refurbishment I have an ‘91 XM V6 Sei that I’ve had for the last 4 years and the alloy wheels are now looking distinctly ugly (corrosion & laquer coating flaking). I’m wondering about getting the wheels refurbished as an alternative to replacement asmy Citroen garage are quoting 165 UKP + VAT per wheel for the original alloys (Speedlines).
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However, I’ve checked them regularly since then and they don’t seem to be a problem. BTW, I’ve mostly used Michelin’s on my XM, my wife’s BX GTi and previous Citroens (Visa GTi’s) - having briefly flirted with Pirrelli’s - didn’t seem to wear particulary well.
30 Blowout I just want to say to all those doubters..My XM saved my life the other day. I had an almighty blowout on the motorway, I was probably doing in the region of 85-90mph when the car suddenly jinked to the left.
31 Door hinges (Note this happens on my XM as well - here is an idea on how to cure it taken from the CS list) It is more a rule than an exception that the door hinges on CX’s makes a loud clicking noise when you open a door.
My BX GTi suffered from this - it was due to wear in the lower suspension arm bearings where the arm is attached to the sub frame. Given that the XM front suspension is BX derived, it might be worth investigating.
The headlamps can be pulled apart, but it's not a job I would like to do. The headlamps will of course need to be re-aligned afterwards. Citroen XM Internet Reference Version 1.0 3/3/99...
Michelin and that it was very important with the Citroen type of geometry setup (something about scrub angles etc). This might all be a load of *******s but when my XM company car came back once from the tyre people with Avons and I pointed it out to the leasing company (who made some enquiries) they told me to put Michelins on it! Of course, I wasn’t paying so I did.
5mm dome with wires.By the way my temperature display reads in F. Ditto. My XM is a 1990 registered vehicle. perhaps newer ones have more useful readouts. I wish I could could get a reading in ’C and keep English messages!
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Mirror glass can be removed by pulling sideways a small wire clip just visible on lower edge of glass. Many thanks to Harry Boswell for this tip. Citroen XM Internet Reference Version 1.0 3/3/99...
I have heard that the cost savings are considerable, but have not tried them for myself - though I might if I wind up the enthusiasm to take the bits off my GTi. Citroen XM Internet Reference Version 1.0 3/3/99...
On the nearside the plastic insert holds the temperature sensor - Ithink!! Maybe the they changed the wing mirror glass size AND the front bumper moulding during 1990. Citroen XM Internet Reference Version 1.0 3/3/99...
(looks like insulating tape) which you peel away and viola - there are the mounting holes. I had a look at this today. The holes, covered with tape, are blind and were bone dry. Citroen XM Internet Reference Version 1.0 3/3/99...
The Body 39 Rust 39 Rust XM’s do rust, but not at the age that you are talking about. Early XM’s rust along the weatherseal at the bottom of the doors. Citroen XM Internet Reference Version 1.0 3/3/99...
Even if the required cables are not there I would think all that would be required would be direct some extra power cables to the seat (switches and motors are in the seats). Citroen XM Internet Reference Version 1.0 3/3/99...
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The Body 40 Tow bar Citroen XM Internet Reference Version 1.0 3/3/99...
The Engine and other mechanicals 41 150HP engine 41 150HP engine Is it the 145 or the 150HP engine? i.e. <7/94 or >7/94? Citroen XM Internet Reference Version 1.0 3/3/99...
I am having my cambelt changed next week and this means the crankshaft pulley has to come off. Has anybody any knowledge of the special method of refitting of this pulley? Citroen XM Internet Reference Version 1.0 3/3/99...
====== You mention the drop rod. Is this what causes my XM to make strange noises over uneven road surfaces? It sort of clonks, as is the “spring” was broken, on the left side of the front wheel (at least that where I think when I am driving).
==== The French Car Co. have now fixed my XM. Hooray! The diagnostic computer could find no fault with the ECU - the ECU kept saying it was ok! ’Traditional’ searching found a bad contact on the ignition coil.
I am led to believe that there is a ’problem’ with a batch of 2.0i 16vengines produced late 1994/early 1995 ? My XM estate (RP6744)has developed a noise similar to ’lazy tappet’, but Ihave told that it is possibly from the little end/piston, and that a replacement unit (@30,000miles!) may be necessary.
46 Engines The Engine and other mechanicals 46 Engines The 2.0 Liter XM engine is developed in 1986, in the Tremery, factory for PSA. The versions in the XM are called XU 10J2 ( EFI ) XU10M ( Monopoint ) XU10 ( Carb, discontinued ) Citroen XM Internet Reference Version 1.0...
47 Idle speed wobblies My XM (1992 2.0i) occasionally seems to lose track of idle speed. It happens in Neutral or Park; from an ordinary sort of speed (about 900 rpm on the clock) it speeds up over a few seconds to 1500, 2000, 2500 or faster.
Citroën changed the engine in Summer 1994 to a 150 HP Turbo engine. ==== My 94 XM does not do it. Was yours a Manual or Auto? Maybe there is a Mapping problem in the ECU ====...
Self centering (diravi) system was standard on all V6 XMs till july94. 2L non injection was a XM engine for Belgium and France. Non hydractive XM was produced for French market. (Must have a lovely ride! ==== 2.0 Carburettored with _cast iron_ not alloy block !! Same head as injection cars though (except a distributor stuck on the end of the camshaft ) &...
What is the worst that can happen if the ball joint fails completely? Will the car become dangerous, and if so how? Is it easily replaceable (it looks it, but with an XM you never know!)? and will it do other...
XMs mainly doing long motorway runs at 80/90mph are. 2.0i manual hatch 32mpg 2.0 CT turbo auto hatch 30.5mpg 2.0 16v auto estate 32.5mpg plus ZX 1.9turbo diesel 52mpg (and it will outperform any of the XMs!) Citroen XM Internet Reference Version 1.0 3/3/99...
Finally my dealer told me to fit original spark plugs. The car started right away. Last week I changed spark plugs in my XM 2.0I Turbo. Guess what..The plugs of a V6 came out. No wonder my engine got too hot and I had low power despite of the turbo.
, repair approx. 500-600. Worn valve seals Do you have a 2.0i XM? They may suffer from worn valve seals which causes oil consumption. They can be replaced easily and it takes about 3 hrs. work. Citroen XM Internet Reference Version 1.0...
55 Water leak My XM has started a steady drip-drip type water leak. The leak seems to stop when about 1 litre of water has dissappeared from the water tank. There is no steam or other outward sign of a problem. The drips only seem to be warm - not hot.
I can hear the solenoid working.Switch off the ignition and for 30 seconds or so I could still work the solenoid, after which I couldnt.So its not the accel sensor causing the hard setting.Can you tell me where the other sensors are located? Citroen XM Internet Reference Version 1.0 3/3/99...
I had such a testbox more or less for over a year in my ‘89 Xm because the suspension-computer failed badly in this early car. I gave it away together with this dammed red beast...
Front Suspension Spheres I, like many others it seems, am not totally happy with the ride comfort on the XM, even after having the spheres recharged. If the Hydractive is not working as it should , the ride quality is totally unacceptable, and as you know if any fault in the system at detected by the Hydractive computer then 'sport' mode is automatically engaged.
BTW, I also used these spheres on my previous XM 24 valves, with quite encouraging results. Just don’t forget to specify the exact type of your XM - it seems that there are different types. Citroen XM Internet Reference Version 1.0...
Rome (my city) say me it’s all ok, but I don’t think so. ==== Probably the accumulator itself suffers from internal leakage. so i mean the thing where the acc. sphere is mounted on. the garage should be able to test this. Citroen XM Internet Reference Version 1.0 3/3/99...
61 Comfort Spheres Well to be exact, we do not really have a _new_ XM, but our 1989 XM 2.0i certainly drives like new with 2 new front spheres (at Hfl 100,- (50 US$) a piece) and all the other (5) spheres refilled.
Shame we never got it here in England. Doesn’t Diravi sound so much nicer than “Varipower”? Just out of interest, what is the derivation of the name, Diravi. Is it from the French for Direction Assistee? Regards, Keith Citroen XM Internet Reference Version 1.0 3/3/99...
63 Electro-valve and hard ride Hello my friends For some time now I have been trying to discover why my Mk1 XM suspension rides hard. I have fixed the earth problem in the front wings. I have checked the spheres; as I thought two had lost internal pressure because the fluid level in the oil tank fell so as the warning lamp flashed.
This I will try sometime m the distant future when I feel confident enough but it would be ironic if this was the answer to all our problems DRY JOINTS. (Thanks to Jim Davidson and the CCC) Citroen XM Internet Reference Version 1.0 3/3/99...
This implies an electrical problem, possibly with one of the sensors. I made the mistake of taking the car (XM 2.0si 1990) to a citroen dealer (Sands of Bernham, near Slough) to have the computer tested. They immediately recommended changing three of the spheres (problem - I’ve had them all recharged recently, and there quote was *very* high).
On older XM’s these bearings are made of brass or copper (or so) but on newer XM’s these are made of Teflon (or so) (I was told so by my Cit dealer). These older bearings (copper or brass) tend to get stuck, or heavy going after some time because of corrosion.
If you find out how to do it please let me know. ==== *** De-pressurising the hydraulic circuits takes 12 pages in the handbook...For some operations special equipment is required. Citroen XM Internet Reference Version 1.0 3/3/99...
If your XM is one of the early ones with these earthing blocks, I strongly recommend you cut them off and solder on M6 earth rings and likewise re-secure to earth with serrated washers and nut.
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'Normal' and 'Sport', with the dot-matrix message likewise modified. With the introduction of the 'New XM' with its many, many improvements internally and externally, came the addition of the anti-sink suspension system. This incorporates a specific antisink valve, which acts...
69 Hydractive 2 suspension All of the foregoing might be true of the Mk 1 XM but it is certainly _not_ true of Hydractive 2 suspended cars. I say might because although I have never driven a Mk 1 car, those road tests I have read make no mention of these phenomena - see Jints comments below.
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Having had a (Vauxhall) Vectra 2,0 16V as a company car a couple of years ago, I confirm this. In fact I would go as far as saying that the XM offers a better ride than anything I have ever driven (and that includes a long list of DS, SM, GS, GSA, CX, BX and Xantia).
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Suspension 69 Hydractive 2 suspension Of course this discussion really ought to be taking place on the XM List so I have copied it there so that people with more experience of the Mk 1 XM can have their say.
Same question goes when you use this hydraflush stuff. Would the people who have actually used it come forward and actually tell us the procedure they have used to get it into and out of the LHM system! ==== I used hydraflush in my XM recently. Citroen XM Internet Reference Version 1.0 3/3/99...
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An addendum to when this was typed was that I hadn’t bled the brakes through and I got - you guessed it - some kind of air lock - hard to seehow, but when I bled them they felt a lot better - cured the slight Citroen XM Internet Reference Version 1.0 3/3/99...
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70 Hydraflush Suspension braking judder at low speed that other listers have spoken about (the l are about a year old) and also seems to have cured the intermittent ABS fault. Citroen XM Internet Reference Version 1.0 3/3/99...
(But be careful - all things in moderation)! Rotten ride Has anyone experienced XM Suspension problems on 2 litre early XM’s (1989-90)? Took of all 4 corner spheres and refitted them, had an improved ride for a short journey, then back to the rear finding all the pot-holes.
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Where is it comming from – we couldnt find an obvious leak. ==== I had a XM LHM leak once which entailed replacing the power steering ram. It was a 1992 model and the guy in the garage said they often go.
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I am replacing the front brake pads on Sunday so I will attempt it then. Rear suspension not rising Changing LHM on a XM may cause some problems due to air that got into the LHM hoses. After the last LHM change on my XM it wouldn’t rise for about half an hour.
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. . . primed the pump intake tube with LHM . . . and after refitting the tube the engine was run for a minute or so to bleed the pump/accumulator circuit. Citroen XM Internet Reference Version 1.0 3/3/99...
I could find out what it as and get it fixed by the garage that I bought it from. You’ll have to change the stabilizers. This is a general XM failure. In Holland they cost about 70 guilders each which is about 20 GBP .
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The new one goes straight back in by the same process and there is no adjustment possible. Peace now reigns at the front end! Citroen XM Internet Reference Version 1.0 3/3/99...
73 Noisy hydraulic pump >can anyone tell me if you can rebuild xm hydraulic pump as mine is noisy, or must i buy anew one and how much do these cost. also which fuse number converts the outside temp.display fromcent. to fahr.regards andy e,mail abairsto@hotmail.com...
’soft’ and I can bounce the car around, but after a few hundred yards of driving, it goes hard. Having not worked on XM hydraulics before, I suspect that I am not bleeding the system properly.
Recharging usually cost US$ 12,- up to US$ 27,50 New spheres cost US$ 40,- up to 65,- (Ex. shipping, at current bad exchange rate) CITROEN ANDRE // CXA // ANDRE POL http://home.worldonline.nl/~citandre http://home.worldonline.nl/~citandre/icccr.htm citandre@worldonline.nl Citroen XM Internet Reference Version 1.0 3/3/99...
If you intend to keep your XM I would recommend a peek at these bearings. Wear cam be detected by pulling and pushing the relevant arm with the wheel off and looking for any undue movement at the pivoting end of the arm.
DS like ride Jint ====== Do as Arthur says it will save you time and further expense. When we tested so called refurbished units there was a mish masm of varing pressures. Citroen XM Internet Reference Version 1.0 3/3/99...
(10 metres) and then after about another fifty metres the front suspension drops to the ground - whilst moving!- then comes back up again fairly quickly. It’s very unnerving and I get some very strange looks from people coming the other way !! Citroen XM Internet Reference Version 1.0 3/3/99...
79 Sorting out the suspension Suspension of my XM (engine 3.0 24 ventils, 5 years old) has been too hard since few weeks. If switch is in position "Automatic suspension", then front suspension is hard, rear is correct. Nobody knows, what to dowith it.
The cost of replacement can be very high if a large number needs replacing. There are seven spheres on an XM, you can see two of them at the top of the suspension struts under the bonnet and one hiding behind the radiator.
SPHERE INFORMATION Andy Burnett has now corrected my short guide to XM spheres. Here are the basics, and I have a lot of information available in addition to this, so ring me if you think I can help. I will publish more later.
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If the Hydractive is NOT working properly, some relief can be gained by using BXspheres which run at the same pressure as the XM. The BX 500cc sphere will just fit the XM and if the. Hydractive system is naff, fitting a sphere with a 1.65 by-pass orifice will give you a much softer ride. As Andy says, a 500cc sphere will have more resilience than the 400cc unit.
IMHO, the gas-volume is ok, but the damping is too high and is responsible for the “rough-ride” compared to real Citroens like a DS. Okay, the Xm isn’t bad, but it could be better ;-) My current Xm got modified spheres, but these simply provide a bigger gas-volume which results in a suspension which is far too smooth (and probably dangerous...).
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I think that Cypharse told me that the damper hole is 0.1 mm bigger on comfort spheres. My XM has “comfort spheres” on the front axle. They are ok. If they have a 0.1mm bigger damper hole, then 0.2 mm bigger is certainly way too much !
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Subject: Spheres with less damping? Today I visited my citroen dealer. He showed me a sphere that is used for the current Xm-production.There are no damper holes!Probably the holes are covered by a metal-plate which seems not to be removable.
==== I have heard that early XM’s can appear to set the suspension into sports mode if the front wheels are not pointing forward when the ignition is switched on. The sensor on the turning angle is read when the ignition is first switched on and this is assummed to be the straight ahead position.
“Sports” suspension. Ride quality is unaltered. AFAIK on H1 cars, selecting “Sport” ruined the ride. According to the 97/98 French and Belgian brochures I have, the XM is (was?) still available with “normal” hydropneumatic suspension on base petrol and diesel models.
Suspension 85 Suspension computer When investigating the suspension computer wiring on my XM I was surprised to see that there was a connection from the courtesy light to the computer. Apparantly this is to provide an anti-jolt function !! The idea is that when you open any door or tailgate with the ignition off, the suspension computer is switched on, it then opens some sort of valve which allows the pressure in the suspension to equalise as you load heavy passengers or luggage into the car.
To restore the appeal of their hydropneumatic system, Citroen took the decision to add computer control. This system, first seen on the XM model, is called Hydractive suspension. It gives exceptional ride comfort, combined with precise wheel control when the need arises.
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Braking force is measured indirectly, using a pressure switch. When the fluid pressure in the braking circuit exceeds 35 Citroen XM Internet Reference Version 1.0 3/3/99...
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The Hydractive ECU is a sealed unit mounted in the engine compartment. It uses two microprocessors to validate, compare and perform calculations on data obtained from the sensors to estimate longitudinal, lateral and vertical body accelerations. To determine the optimum suspension setting for Citroen XM Internet Reference Version 1.0 3/3/99...
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I am indebted to Eric Chowanietz the author of Automobile Electronics from whose book this section has been lifted without permission. If you are interested in vehicle electronics then this is the book to get! ISBN 0-7506-1878-7 Citroen XM Internet Reference Version 1.0 3/3/99...
Suspension 87 Suspension question 87 Suspension question In the UK, ALL Xms had Hyperactive - Mk1 had “normal”, Mk2 has Hyperactive II. All with, will have the switch. Pointless though it may be..Citroen XM Internet Reference Version 1.0 3/3/99...
The first question to ask is. Was the car driven with the supension spheres low pressure or with the setting on ’high’ as either of these conditions would hammer the mountings. Another possibility is under bonnet heat affecting the rubber composition, especially on the V6 version. Citroen XM Internet Reference Version 1.0 3/3/99...
89 Suspension V6 I got myself a new job and bought XM V6 Ambiance (Ambiance = with ABS + lots of el. stuff: type only in the Netherlands?) from 1991 (12 valves, ORGA NO. close to 4950) a few day’s ago.
Suspension 90 Suspension variants BTW: Does anyone here know what variants of the hydraulic suspension have been used in the XM? As I understand it, all Citroens with Hydractivesuspension have a switch to select between “normal” and “sport” modes, but my ‘96 2.1TD does not. Also, compared to a 2.5TD I considered buying (which had this switch), my car is missing one of the “black boxes”...
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Suspension 90 Suspension variants Citroen XM Internet Reference Version 1.0 3/3/99...
They were then fine. Now, I haven’t studied the XM braking system in any great detail but I assume that there is a single hydraulic line going to the caliper, through which pressure is transmitted to the pads. I assume that if air somehow manages to get into this part of the line, the only way to remove it would be by bleeding from the brakes.
It will have to make this discovery anew each time the ignition is turned on however, as it uses this “event” to reset itself (in case someone fixed the problem when the ignition was off). DISCLAIMER: I don’t know any details of the ABS system in the XM; what I’ve described here are merely general working principles.
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It is an electronic failure (apart from the ABS OUT OF USE warning), you can feel it. It has nothing to do with air in the system. BTW, the XM doesn’t need any bleeding, the car will do that itsself.
==== I have had many ABS problems on my XMs. Last XM was a real p.i.t.a. I had to change the left front sensor twice within 2 years and then the problem was gone, although all sensors give different measurement values.
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Your abs problem is most likely a wheel sensor playing up. These are checked after car starts rolling. To test disconect connector and use a test meter to verify there is circuit. Front sensors go often about £80 new or go to breakers. Citroen XM Internet Reference Version 1.0 3/3/99...
-Top up the LHM fluid reservoir XM fitted with ABS: The circuit bleeding operation can be made easier by speeding the hydraulic valve block with the help of the Souriau 26A Station or the Elit test unit. Citroen XM Internet Reference Version 1.0 3/3/99...
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The brakes 94 Bleeding the Brakes At your service, CITROEN ANDRE // CXA // ANDRE POL http://www.worldonline.nl/~citandre or (temp) http://home.worldonline.nl/~citandre citandre@worldonline.nl Citroen XM Internet Reference Version 1.0 3/3/99...
Sykes-Pickevant offer a superb tool, Ref. No. 660665 with adaptor for the XM Ref. No. 036109. at around £45.50; Draper tools offer Ref. No. 33606 with XM adaptor at around £75 and Citroen Tool OUT10901 IT also sells at about £45.50.' (Thanks to Brian Primmer and the CCC) Citroen XM Internet Reference Version 1.0...
96 Brake Pads Cost of front pads £22.84 UKP + VAT make Bendix from S & J Motor Factors Bradford Bendix LHM £2.44 UKP per Ltr. 01274 723027. Very easy to fit. ====== Citroen XM Internet Reference Version 1.0 3/3/99...
This would be cheaper than the Citroen tool, in all probability, and it fits on the end of a square drive shaft out of the socket set you all must surely have to hand. Citroen XM Internet Reference Version 1.0 3/3/99...
The car, being a turbo diesel estate of 1992 vintage will vary in some respects from the earlier and petrol and saloon models. I cannot speak too highly of the assistance given by other XM owners when I was temporarily flummoxed. They will know who they are.
Maybe somebody invented a faster method of screwing the piston back ? ==== I don’t think there is another way. I always use the garages tool and say that I will bring it back within half an hour. Citroen XM Internet Reference Version 1.0 3/3/99...
======= This happened more than once on my XMs. It is a faulty ABS sensor. I took my XM to the garage 8!!! times to have this problem solved. THe 9th time we found out that it was a faulty ABS sensor. It is probably one of the front sensors (on my car the left one).
101 Parking Brakes Renewing the parking brake cable Since renewing the front discs on my XM,few items have claimed my attention, though having seen the parking brake cables looking a bit tatty, I took the precaution of obtaining a pair for replacement purposes when time allowed.
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(hand?!) brake cables which Jam on the release unit.' Now, this catastrophe has not happened to me (yet). Do any other XM-ers have experience of this? Come on, you lot, Keith is the only one to respond to this column (March '94).
The brakes 102 Warped front discs My XM is suffering from warped front discs only 9 000 miles/14 400 km sincethey were replaced. The dealer says "Yes, it often happens." Any ideas why? Our company car (XM turbo ct 1997) had the same problem.
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The brakes 102 Warped front discs Citroen XM Internet Reference Version 1.0 3/3/99...
ZF also have a Web site, www.zf.com. ==== With XM automatic gearboxes it is important to change the fluid often with an occaisional complete change by removing the filter housing. These boxes are sensitive to abuse by unsuitable selectin or moving into drive with higher revs than basic idle, so treat it well, keep the fluid fresh and it will last forever.
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It also wastes some oil. But again, GDP is running very well since its transfusion. If any owners have changed the oil in the ZF box themselves, I would like to hear from them, please. Citroen XM Internet Reference Version 1.0 3/3/99...
Auto box Sump Yes, the oblong tank with orange(yellow) dipstick is the auto box sump containing dexron auto fluid. The crescent gauge is engine sump oil level and reads ony when firstswitching ignition. Harry. Citroen XM Internet Reference Version 1.0 3/3/99...
XM Auto.” Yes my XM 16v auto estate has just started doing this but at about 40K miles and 12 months old. It has been like it for the past 10K miles and doesn’t seem to have got worse but I wonder if I am compensating for it by throtting back unconsciously.
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Auto and manual gearboxes 105 Clutch slip in Auto Gearbox ==== I just asked an expert on this matter. He says only V6 XMs suffer from these autogearbox problems. The 2.0i models have less problems. ==== Citroen XM Internet Reference Version 1.0 3/3/99...
I have to move around to find the correct position to fit the gear (german word rühren). Is this normal for XMs? It’s my first XM and I think this is not normal. What can I do to make change gears working better? Where do I have to look for the problem to identify it? (btw the clutch is very short, the pedal has only a few centimeters until the clutch is, äh, shut.
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Subject: Clutches! Today, the clutch cable failed in an XM I am borrowing. This is the second time in 3 months that the small plastic clip that fastens the cable to the pedal has failed in less than ideal circumstances. This =...
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/ shift down system as used in F1 cars. The electrically controlled = hydraulic actuators are already available, and the cable operated gear = change should make this even simpler in an XM. If I had an old = knackered XM (sorry, make that “another”), I might even be tempted to = have a go myself.
I have *frequently* used Woodlinkin Motors for various problems I encountered with my BX. I even bought my XM from there. The XM, however, seems to have a very difficult to locate problem with the engine management that is causing uneven running (I’ll post details and a plea for help later) and Manuel (the boss) has spent the best part of 3 months trying to sort it out - all under warranty.
6K miles oil changes. It prolongs the life of the box and costs a damned sight less than the cost of a new ‘box. If the XM you are looking at has evidence of regular oil changes and now sign of being used as a tow-vehicle, you’ll be OK.
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Auto and manual gearboxes 108 V6 Auto boxes Citroen XM Internet Reference Version 1.0 3/3/99...
£2,000. They did say that they would use original Volvo switches and it would have been identical in operation to the standard manufacturer installation. At that price, I would probably say, trade yours in for an SEi Turbo..Citroen XM Internet Reference Version 1.0 3/3/99...
Burning out I’m planning to get my Air Conditioning regassed (on my XM). However one of my friends recently caused a 1000 pounds worth of damage to his car (a saab) by failing to get his air con oil refilled when the air con was regassed.
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Since then the system has worked perfectly. I do not know what the replaced parts were as my French is not that good. However, I gather a valve motor was replaced. My XM has done 80,000 kms and goes well.
30 minutes under the car (on a ramp), with a torch. Can Geoff, or anyone, please tell me where the thing is, and what it looks like (ie. is it a plastic tube, a hole, or what??. Citroen XM Internet Reference Version 1.0 3/3/99...
* A new ecu has been installed since R.P. 5424 in XM’s with automatic climat control. I have no idea if they can be identified by the color of the sockets though. XM’s with a standard airco have been equipped with a new improved evaporator sensor since R.P. 5471 and this sensor can be identified by the lettercode.
To remedy this he reverse connected the flow pipes and cleared the block, reconnected it and re-gassed up the system. It worked a treat, I can now make my own ice creams in the cabin. Citroen XM Internet Reference Version 1.0 3/3/99...
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Air-conditioning 113 Converting to R134A Citroen XM Internet Reference Version 1.0 3/3/99...
114 3.0L suspension problem I own a 1989 citroen xm, 3.0 L petrol.I have a problem with the engine. I took it to a citroen dealer and did a complete tune up. They tested the car’s Computer and didn’t find any faults in the system.The problem still persists.My problem is that while i am driving the car ,especially when i’m in traffic the car...
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It seems to me that the engine is not the problem because it runs fine. Well, to be honest: sometimes the engine doesn’t run idle at constant rpm’s (it varies sometimes between 750 - 1000 rpm). Maybe the throttle potentiometer causes this “jittering”? Possible. Citroen XM Internet Reference Version 1.0 3/3/99...
Further info on the problem - the engine behaves marvellously at full throttle: the accelleration is nearly as good as my Mini when it had its fast engine in (no, really, it’s true!). Any more ideas anyone..? ====== Citroen XM Internet Reference Version 1.0 3/3/99...
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115 Engine management specialist - help!!!! 3.0 Litre Cars Did you have the potentio-meter changed? Arthur ====== Twice. :( regards ___________________________________________________________ Richard Williamson Citroen XM Internet Reference Version 1.0 3/3/99...
The latest ploy is to replace the wiring loom - *not* a job I would like! Regards ___________________________________________________________ Richard Williamson Email: --- richwill@innotts.co.uk Home page: --- http://www.innotts.co.uk/~richwill William Crane School homepage: --- http://www.campus.bt.com/CampusWorld/orgs/org2823 ____________________________________________________________ Citroen XM Internet Reference Version 1.0 3/3/99...
4) What further tests could I do on it? Regards - (sorry for the length of this!) ___________________________________________________________ Richard Williamson Email: --- richwill@innotts.co.uk Home page: --- http://www.innotts.co.uk/~richwill William Crane School homepage: --- http://www.campus.bt.com/CampusWorld/orgs/org2823 Citroen XM Internet Reference Version 1.0 3/3/99...
118 The source of all misery Cracked back manifold Well, I have the same experience with my XM V6. But the garage noticed that the back exhaust manifold (is this proper Englisch?) was cracked. The idea is that fresh air enters the exaust system and will fool the Lambda sonde.
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Would further voltage drop in the system from seat heaters etc. cock things up with the output from the throttle pot? Any ideas from people who are more experienced than me at cursing XMs - sorry - solving problems with them? Citroen XM Internet Reference Version 1.0 3/3/99...
It would be a help to know where you are, but, if by the remotest chance you’re near Plymouth in the UK then I can recommend Alan Jefferies of Plympton. He builds and races very high spec motors. From Mark Linzell XM Registrar, CCC (UK) Plymouth. Devon <http://welcome.to/linzell_world> Citroen XM Internet Reference Version 1.0 3/3/99...
120 Andyspares I phoned yesterday for a price list and received it today. Its 50 pages long,very comprehensive and useful. Everyone should have one. Telephone 0118 951 26 26 and ask for a catalogue. Citroen XM Internet Reference Version 1.0 3/3/99...
121 Back from the XM factory Hi guys I’m back from vacation and my visit to the XM and Xantia factory. It was a hell of a journey but it was worth it. We went with 20 members of the Dutch CX Club by bus which took 11 hours from the Belgian border to Rennes-la-Janais.
122 Books Pocket Mechanic By the way - have you all purchased the Peter Russek book - Citroen XM pocket mechanic - it is pretty good, at least until the Haynes manual comes out. Petrol only though. Peter Russek : 01494 440829 Fax : 01494 473980 Email : russek@globalnet.co.uk...
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General Information Workshop manuals The entire set of original XM Manuals comes in 89 sets of, separately packed, manuals and updates which has to be filed in 9 binders. Total costs about a $ 1000,- Not counting the hours we spent updating the set. Removing/replacing pages, adding updates..
Those of you living in countries where heated seats are not mounted need not worry, when buying a 1990 XM check and maybe replace the seat heater (remember some models has got heated back seats as well, although they may not have been worn), Citroen XM Internet Reference Version 1.0...
The 3,0 litre is thirsty, the 24 valve even more so. Again, the pundits reckon that the best XM is the 2,0 litre turbo (the 150 bhp version) which is nearly as quick as the 3,0 litre but more economical.
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I changed all the brake pads, that’s really easy. All the electrical gadget like the seats, the mirrors etc still work. The only thing that is really terrible on our XM (because its only working 30% or so of the time) is the fuel gauge.
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==== Why should one buy a car with all this trouble that can be solved easily?! Buy a ’93 XM or younger and have a fine car. A car is not built to be repaired but to transport people and items from one place to the other.
Tel: 01570 470643 I have been taking my CX’s and XM’s to Peter for years. He has some 20 years plus Citroen experience, and he is an enthusiast himself. If you want good honest advice with excellent labour rates in the West Wales area, then look no further.
XM facelift models Regarding the XM, I like the earlier models better. The dash of the later models is as a boring as such a thing can get (in my eyes), it looks like a copy of a VW (or so) dash...
Mr Garage may make a reasonable profit. It’s the price we pay for lengthening service intervals, availability & “sophisticated” distribution. Dominic Citroen XM Internet Reference Version 1.0 3/3/99...
128 Powersteering problems Just had a very dangerous situation with my XM. I was driving on the higway (around 100km/h) and had to break at the end of it for traffic lights. When I lifted my foot from the gas-pedal (whatever it is called) the engine stopped running , causing the powersteering to stop service.
General Information 129 Prices 129 Prices Contact Finn Likke customer relations for people wishing to purchase citroens in denmark and take to other eu states tel no 0045 36180256 Citroen XM Internet Reference Version 1.0 3/3/99...
The RP number is a four digit number that identifies the cars production run to Citroen. This number is stencilled on the nearside (left-side) front door pillar. This number is essential when ordering parts for your XM. Citroen XM Internet Reference Version 1.0 3/3/99...
RP number, you will get the correct set of brake pads for your car. The XM was a car which in the early days, required a mass of modifications, partcularly to elec- tronic and electrical components amd the hydractive suspension. These can all be correlated with the RP number.
Thank God! I thought I were the only person in the world that thought Citroen spoilt the look of the XM when they facelifted it. I have a later phase I XM and the first job I did was remove that awful Two spoke atrocity and place the single-spoke item that the dashboard was designed around.
5 years or so. Replace any hardened engine hoses as soon as practicable Check wiring around engine regularly for damage & hardening. Long range stuff: Citroen XM Internet Reference Version 1.0 3/3/99...
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Unfortunately I don’t live as I learn and don’t carry this with me, although I know I should. In my car I simply carry screwdrivers, water, windscreen wash, engine oil and blood. ==== Citroen XM Internet Reference Version 1.0 3/3/99...
Steve & Keith I think you are both absolutely right - the time is right for a formalisation of XM support, and that the XM “club” should be a part of the CCC. There’s already several models with dedicated sections, with varying levels of activity - from SeMantics (SM section, with newsletters, tours and plenty of exclusively SM events) to CX (with a rally, and CX of the Year at the national rally).
A complete hydraulic system failure is a uniquely Citroen thing - but you do have two spheres full of reserve pressure, and a priority valve ensuring that as pressure goes, it will go to the “unimportant” (relatively) things first. Suspension and back brakes first, then steering, then (finally) front brakes. Citroen XM Internet Reference Version 1.0 3/3/99...
25th aniversary of the GS and SM and the 20th of the CX. For this event also a special book is made named "style opron".By the way, Opron also did the restyling of the DS, and the third noseis drawn by him !!! ==== Citroen XM Internet Reference Version 1.0 3/3/99...
137 XM Prestige When I was looking to buy an XM, amongst a few SEi’s I test drove two J reg Prestige’s. They were very different to each other. One was in every detail identical to an SEi, I suspect that it was an unsold SEi, rebadged and sold at a lower price.
XM ? *** Definate "Go !" for the XM replacement is given not so long ago. I think it was early this year. The design, development and marketing research for the 605 was already in process at that time.
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