Anyone who has ever driven a Citroën 2CV knows: the gear lever is anything but standard. In contrast to the classic lever between the seats, it protrudes horizontally through the dashboard . This special gearshift system was later also used in iconic Citroën models such as the Méhari, Dyane, Acadiane, Fourgonnette, Ami 6 and Ami 8 .
How does the 2CV wiring diagram work?
The 2CV's gearshift is not like that of a typical car. Here is how the gears are positioned:
🔹 Reverse : Front left (where you would normally expect first gear)
🔹 First gear : left rear
🔹 Second gear : center front
🔹 Third gear : middle rear
🔹 Fourth gear : front right
A big advantage of this setup? Shifting between second and third gear – the most frequently used gears – is particularly smooth.
First gear: takes some getting used to
In the early models of the 2CV, the first gear was not synchronised . This meant that you had to bring the car almost to a standstill (max. 10 km/h ) to change back to first gear. An experienced driver could do this smoothly with some bridging , but an inexperienced driver risked a creaking noise from the gearbox.
Fortunately, this was changed in later versions and the first gear did get synchronisation .
Fourth gear as overdrive
The fourth gear was initially not a regular gear, but an overdrive . This meant that it was mainly intended to reduce the revs at higher speeds , making the 2CV more economical and less noisy.
A legendary system that characterises Citroën
This iconic gearshift system was not only used in the 2CV , but also in other classic Citroëns such as the Méhari, Dyane, Acadiane, Fourgonnette, Ami 6 and Ami 8. It ensured that these models offered a driving experience of their own , something that Citroën enthusiasts still appreciate today.
Have you ever driven a Citroën with this shifting system? What was your experience? Let us know in the comments! 🚗✨