Target Audience:
Do-it-yourself owners and professional mechanics
Value Proposition:
Inexpensive way to keep vehicle working properly, comprehensive repair and service source
Advantage:
Official ALFA ROMEO documentation, detailed, readily available digital format, no shipping wait times
Accessibility:
Instant download, save to hard drive, burn to CD-ROM
Navigation:
Numbered table of contents for fast information retrieval
Scope:
Complete Official ALFA ROMEO Service Manual
Estimated Pages:
Hundreds (specific count not provided, but described as comprehensive)
Type:
Factory Service Manual (FSM), Workshop Manual, Repair Manual
Language:
English (implied by product description and typical market)
Digital Platform Compatibility:
All PC-based Windows Operating Systems, Mac
Mechanical:
Engine, Drivetrain, Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Exhaust
Electrical:
Full Electrical System Diagnosis and Repair, Wiring Diagrams
Body:
Bodywork Repair and Maintenance (implied by comprehensive nature)
Maintenance:
Scheduled Maintenance, Fluid Changes, Filter Replacements
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for complete disassembly and reassembly
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides for common and complex issues
Electrical Diagnostics:
Combined troubleshooting and detailed wiring diagrams
Depth:
From DIYer to Experienced Mechanic, Detailed Step-by-Step Procedures
Illustrations:
Hundreds of photos and illustrations, enlarged insets for detail
Critical Information:
Notes, Cautions, and Warnings integrated throughout each chapter
Engine Type:
V6 (Busso engine is characteristic of this era Alfa Romeo)
Engine Variants:
3.0L V6, 2.0L Twin Spark (keywords suggest these are primary focus)
Power Output:
Varies by specific engine (e.g., 3.0L V6 typically ~200-230 hp, Twin Spark ~150-170 hp for this period)
Torque Output:
Varies by specific engine
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Timing Belt Replacement:
Critical maintenance item for V6 engines, typically every 30,000-50,000 miles or 3-5 years
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2700 mm (106.3 inches)
Length:
Approx. 4640 mm (182.7 inches)
Width:
Approx. 1765 mm (69.5 inches)
Height:
Approx. 1390 mm (54.7 inches)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1450-1650 kg (3200-3640 lbs), varies by engine and features
Crash Test Performance:
Information not directly available in product description, but manual would cover safety system repairs.
Braking System:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) typically standard
Traction Control:
Traction control (ASR) available on some models
Airbags:
Driver airbag standard; Passenger airbag optional or standard depending on market/trim
Seatbelts:
Front and rear seatbelts, potentially pre-tensioners
Audio System:
Factory fitted Clarion or Blaupunkt audio systems, often with CD capability in later models.
Climate Control:
Automatic climate control on many models, requiring refrigerant system servicing.
Cruise Control:
Optional or standard depending on trim level.
Phone Integration:
N/A for this period; aftermarket solutions would be necessary.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 7,500-10,000 miles (12,000-16,000 km) or 12 months, consult manual for specific recommendation.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Depends on plug type (e.g., platinum/iridium may last longer), manual will specify.
Engine Oil Type:
Synthetic or semi-synthetic SAE 10W-40 or 15W-50 recommended, check manual for exact specification (e.g., API SG/SH, ACEA A2/A3).
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based coolant with corrosion inhibitors, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Transmission Fluid Type Manual:
GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil, specific viscosity (e.g., 75W-90) will be in manual.
Transmission Fluid Type Automatic:
Dexron II or equivalent automatic transmission fluid (ATF).
Common Faults Engine:
Timing belt tensioner failure (critical maintenance), oil leaks from engine seals, minor electrical gremlins.
Common Faults Electrical:
Corrosion in electrical connectors, issues with window regulators, central locking, and dashboard warning lights.
Common Faults Suspension:
Worn suspension bushings, strut mounts.
Brand Identity:
Alfa Romeo is renowned for its sporting heritage, elegant Italian design, and engaging driving dynamics.
Design Era:
Designed by Pininfarina, the 164 represents a significant step in Alfa Romeo's modern design language, a departure from earlier more angular styling.
Manufacturing Period:
First generation: 1987-1998. This manual covers the facelifted models from 1994-1997.
Platform Sharing:
Part of the Type Four (Tipo 4) platform, shared with Fiat Croma, Lancia Thema, and Saab 9000, although significantly re-engineered by Alfa Romeo.
Design Awards:
While specific awards for the 1994-1997 facelift might not be widely publicized, the original 164 design by Pininfarina was highly acclaimed for its elegance.
Critical Reception:
Praised for its performance, handling, and distinctive styling, though sometimes criticized for minor electrical issues and maintenance complexity.
