🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Fiat

Model:

Tempra

Generation:

First Generation

Model Years Covered:

1988, 1989, 1990, 1991, 1992, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996

Platform:

Type 159

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Compact/Small Family Car

Competitors:

Volkswagen Golf, Ford Escort, Opel Astra, Peugeot 306, Renault 19.

Design Philosophy:

The Fiat Tempra was designed to be a practical, comfortable, and spacious family car with a focus on good value and innovative features for its class, including a notably aerodynamic design and a roomy interior, particularly the estate version.

Innovations:

For its era, the Tempra offered features like optional ABS, climate control, and a sophisticated multi-link rear suspension on some models, contributing to its driving dynamics.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Scope:

Comprehensive repair and service for the Fiat Tempra (1988-1996)

Page Count:

174

Manual Type:

Workshop Service Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Detailed information on engine disassembly, assembly, diagnostics, and repair, including specifications for various engine variants.

Fuel System:

Coverage of fuel injection systems, carburetors (if applicable to certain markets/engines), fuel pumps, lines, and filters.

Cooling System:

Procedures for radiator, thermostat, water pump, hoses, and coolant specifications.

Ignition System:

Details on spark plugs, ignition coils, distributors (if applicable), timing, and electronic ignition control units.

Exhaust System:

Information on exhaust manifolds, catalytic converters, mufflers, pipes, and emissions control systems.

Transmission:

Repair and maintenance for both manual and automatic transmissions, including clutch operation, gear selection, and fluid specifications.

Drivetrain:

Coverage of drive shafts, CV joints, differentials, and axle components.

Suspension:

Detailed instructions for front and rear suspension components, including shock absorbers, springs, control arms, bushings, and alignment procedures.

Steering System:

Information on steering racks, power steering pumps, fluid, and tie rod ends.

Brake System:

Procedures for brake pad and shoe replacement, caliper service, rotor replacement, hydraulic system bleeding, and ABS system (if equipped).

Electrical System:

Comprehensive wiring diagrams, fuse box layouts, component testing, and troubleshooting for lighting, accessories, and power distribution.

Body And Chassis:

Information on body panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, interior trim, and chassis components.

HVAC System:

Details on air conditioning system servicing, heater core replacement, and ventilation components.

Safety Systems:

Information on airbags (if equipped), seat belt mechanisms, and other safety-related components.

Maintenance:

Routine maintenance tasks, including oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, and lubrication schedules.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic procedures and fault finding for common vehicle issues across all major systems.

Removal Installation:

Step-by-step instructions for the removal and installation of all major vehicle components.

Disassembly Assembly:

Detailed procedures for the disassembly and reassembly of complex components and sub-assemblies.

Adjustments:

Guidance on making necessary adjustments to various vehicle systems, such as engine timing, idle speed, and brake adjustments.

Repair:

Comprehensive repair procedures for damaged or worn components.

Tightening Torques:

Specific torque values for critical fasteners to ensure proper assembly and prevent damage.

Service Tools:

Reference to specific Fiat service tool numbers and illustrations showing their usage.

Wear Limits:

Specifications for component wear limits to determine when parts need replacement.

Depth Of Coverage:

Highly detailed, step-by-step procedures with explanations and pictorial diagrams for both mechanics and DIY enthusiasts. Covers everything from basic maintenance to in-depth repairs and diagnostics.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Printability:

Yes, all pages are printable.

Digital Format:

Instant Download

Compatibility:

Windows, Mac, and Linux OS via Adobe Reader.

Completeness:

100% complete and intact, no missing or corrupt pages/sections.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Range:

The Fiat Tempra was offered with a range of Fiat's FIRE (Fully Integrated Robotized Engine) and Lampredi designed engines, including 1.4L, 1.6L, 1.8L, and 2.0L petrol engines, as well as 1.9L naturally aspirated and turbocharged diesel engines. Specific engine codes like 159A.000 (1.6L), 137A.200 (1.4L), and 175.234 (2.0L 16v) would be detailed in the manual.

Hp Torque Range:

Horsepower typically ranged from approximately 70 hp for base models to over 120 hp for performance-oriented variants like the 2.0L 16v models. Torque figures would vary accordingly.

Fuel Delivery:

Primarily multi-point fuel injection (MPI) for petrol engines, with some earlier or base models potentially featuring carbureted systems. Diesel engines would feature indirect injection or direct injection (common rail not applicable to this era).

Catalytic Converter:

Equipped with catalytic converters for emission control, especially on later models and in markets with stricter regulations.

🔧 Transmission

Manual Transmission:

Typically a 5-speed manual transmission, offering good fuel economy and engagement.

Automatic Transmission:

Optional 3-speed or 4-speed automatic transmissions were available on certain engine variants and markets.

Clutch Type:

Hydraulically operated single dry plate clutch.

📐 Dimensions

Body Styles:

Available as a 4-door saloon and a 5-door estate (station wagon).

Curb Weight Range:

Curb weight typically ranged from approximately 1050 kg to 1300 kg depending on engine and body style.

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Results:

Specific crash test ratings from Euro NCAP or equivalent bodies for the 1988-1996 period would be limited, as testing standards evolved. Early models may not have undergone extensive modern testing.

ABS:

Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on higher trim levels or as an option.

Airbags:

Driver's side airbag became optional or standard on later models and higher trims. Passenger airbags were less common or unavailable for much of this model's run.

Seatbelts:

Front and rear seat belts, with pre-tensioners potentially available on later models.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory-fitted radio-cassette players were common, with basic AM/FM tuning. Options for CD players emerged later in the production run.

Cruise Control:

Cruise control was a rare option, typically found on higher-spec models for export markets.

Connectivity Features:

Limited by modern standards. Early forms of central locking and electric windows were available on higher trims. No integrated Bluetooth or smartphone connectivity.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 10,000 km or 12 months, whichever comes first, but always refer to the manual for specific engine recommendations.

Timing Belt Replacement:

Crucial for interference engines, usually recommended every 60,000-80,000 km or 4-5 years. Failure can cause catastrophic engine damage.

Engine Oil:

Viscosity grades like 10W-40 or 5W-40 API SG/SH were common, with Fiat's own specifications (e.g., Fiat 9.55535-G2) to be followed. Capacity varies by engine, typically 3.5-4.5 liters.

Coolant:

Ethylene glycol-based coolant with corrosion inhibitors, mixed 50/50 with distilled water. Fiat specification may be required.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid, adhering to international standards. Capacity is typically around 1 liter.

Transmission Fluid Manual:

API GL-4 75W-90 or 80W-90 gear oil.

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

ATF Dexron II or III equivalent, with specific Fiat recommendations to be consulted. Capacity around 3-4 liters.

Electrical Gremlins:

Like many Italian cars of this era, some owners report occasional electrical system quirks, often related to earth connections or aging wiring harnesses.

Rust Corrosion:

As with many cars of this period, rust can be a concern, particularly in wheel arches, sills, and around window seals. Regular inspection and treatment are recommended.

Cooling System Leaks:

Hoses and radiator can degrade over time, leading to coolant leaks. Regular inspection of the cooling system is vital.

Suspension Wear:

Bushings and ball joints can wear, leading to noise and compromised handling. The multi-link rear suspension, while advanced, requires proper maintenance.

📚 Vehicle History

Fiat Automotive:

Fiat has a long history of producing practical and innovative mass-market vehicles, known for their design flair and often for offering advanced technology at competitive prices. The Tempra continued this tradition.

Tempra Development:

The Tempra was developed as a successor to the Fiat Regata and was part of Fiat's strategy to offer a modern, front-wheel-drive competitor in the C-segment. It shared its platform with the Fiat Tipo and Lancia Dedra.

Production Plants:

Primarily produced in Italy at Fiat's Mirafiori plant in Turin. It was also produced under license in other countries.

Model Lifespan:

Production spanned from 1990 to 1996, encompassing a significant period of automotive development in the early to mid-1990s.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

European Market Awards:

While specific awards for the Tempra are not widely publicized, it was a significant model for Fiat in the European market, contributing to Fiat's reputation for stylish and practical vehicles.