i have an R reg citroen xantia.
how do i top up my break and suspension fluid

julie shorrock, November 2007

Definitely only use LHM fluid for the hyds. To check the level, stop your Xantia on level ground, leave the engine running, select the ride height to maximum (a forwards backwards lever between the drivers seat and the handbrake - move it fully back), wait for the car to raise fully up, open the bonnet and support, look at the black plastic reservoir on the passenger side, top rear of the engine bay. There should be a bulb on top of it with a disc on a stick inside. This indicates the level. It should be indicating between the 2 marks on the bulb. Simply pull the cap to remove and pour more in if required. Once finished topping it up, replace the cap, close the bonnet, select ride height back to neutral (centre position) and once car has lowered itself again, drive away or switch off.

Jim Allen, March 2008

citroens xantias are different to all other cars they use a high pressure hydraulic system which powers brakes suspension and power steering from a central system. It is absolutly ESSENTIAL that they are topped up whith LHM fluid only.The reservoir is up against the bulkhead on the passengers side under the bonnet and is a black plastic square shape with lots of rubber and plastic pipes entering it.Any other fluid ie.brake fluid will write off the hydraulic system and render your car usless!!! p.s. citroen have been using this system since 1955 and there is still missunderstanding about it!!! Julie hope this info is not to late!!

andy, December 2007

For the brake fluid there should be a small reserviour at the top of the engine (nearest windscreen) underneath it you should see som thin metal pipes coming out simply take the top off and fill once fill replace lid and pump brakes check the level again, repeat until full.

paul, November 2007