Positioning:
A premium compact executive car, known for its driving dynamics, distinctive styling, and passionate Italian heritage. Competed against models like the BMW 3 Series, Mercedes-Benz C-Class, and Audi A4.
Key Competitors:
BMW 3 Series (E46), Mercedes-Benz C-Class (W202/W203), Audi A4 (B5/B6), Volvo S40/V40.
Design Philosophy:
Giorgetto Giugiaro designed exterior, driver-focused interior, advanced chassis dynamics for its era.
Manual Value Proposition:
Empowers owners and independent mechanics to perform extensive maintenance and repairs, significantly reducing dealership service costs.
Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, cylinder head, block, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, timing systems, lubrication, cooling, fuel injection (petrol and diesel).
Engine Management:
ECU diagnostics, sensor identification and testing, ignition systems, emission control systems.
Transmission:
Manual transmission (MTA - Manual Auto-Shift Transmission and conventional) and Automatic transmission (Q-System) overhauls, diagnostics, fluid services, torque converter.
Drivetrain:
Clutch, driveshafts, CV joints, differentials, axles.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension systems, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, anti-roll bars, alignment specifications.
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, column, pump, fluid specifications, troubleshooting.
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), EBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution), brake discs, pads, calipers, lines, bleeding procedures, parking brake.
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system, starter motor, lighting systems (headlights, taillights, interior), wipers, horn, power windows, central locking, fuse box diagrams.
Bodywork And Chassis:
Body panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, exterior trim, interior trim, underbody protection, corrosion prevention.
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning system diagnosis, refrigerant handling, component replacement, cabin filter.
Safety Systems:
Airbag system (SRS - Supplemental Restraint System) diagnosis and service, seatbelt mechanisms.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt replacement, brake servicing, tire rotation.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides for common symptoms, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) interpretation, sensor testing, electrical system fault finding.
Repair:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for component removal, repair, and reinstallation across all vehicle systems.
Rebuild:
Engine rebuild procedures, transmission overhaul, brake caliper rebuilding.
Refurbishment:
Guidance on restoring worn components and maintaining cosmetic integrity.
Restoration:
Comprehensive data supporting full vehicle restoration projects.
Wiring Diagrams:
Complete electrical wiring schematics for all vehicle systems.
Depth:
Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds).
Diagnostic Tools:
Information relevant to using professional diagnostic tools and interfaces (e.g., Alfa Romeo's Examiner).
Compatibility:
PC & MAC Computers
Required Software:
Adobe Acrobat Reader (or compatible PDF viewer)
Operating Systems:
Windows 95, 98, 98SE, 2000, NT, ME, XP, Vista, Windows 7, Windows 8, macOS
Printability:
Printable pages for individual repair procedures.
Binding:
N/A (Digital download, user prints as needed)
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital download, user's choice for printing)
Engine Options:
Wide range including: Twin Spark (1.6L, 1.8L, 2.0L petrol), V6 (2.5L, 3.0L Busso V6 petrol), JTD (2.0L turbodiesel), JTD (2.4L turbodiesel).
Typical Hp Range:
105 hp (1.6 TS) to 250 hp (3.2 V6 GTA)
Typical Torque Range:
150 Nm (1.6 TS) to 300 Nm (3.2 V6 GTA)
Petrol System:
Bosch Motronic electronic fuel injection
Diesel System:
Common Rail Direct Injection (JTD)
Emission Standards:
Euro 3, Euro 4 compliant across various engine variants.
Transmission Types:
5-speed and 6-speed manual transmissions, Q-System 4-speed automatic, MTA (Manual Auto-Shift Transmission) sequential manual.
Optional Gearboxes:
Q-System automatic, MTA sequential manual.
Clutch Type:
Hydraulically operated single dry plate clutch (manual), torque converter (automatic).
Fluid Specification Manual:
API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 or SAE 75W-85 synthetic manual transmission fluid (specific to gearbox).
Fluid Specification Automatic:
Dexron III-H or equivalent (specific to Q-System).
Oil Change Petrol:
Typically every 10,000 - 15,000 km or 12 months (refer to manual for specific engine).
Oil Change Diesel:
Typically every 15,000 - 20,000 km or 12 months (refer to manual for specific engine).
Timing Belt:
Critical: 60,000 - 100,000 km or 5-7 years for Twin Spark and V6 engines (refer to manual, belt failure is catastrophic).
Engine Oil Petrol:
Selсть Synthe M (e.g., Selenia Star Pure Energy 5W-40 or equivalent ACEA A3/B4 specification).
Engine Oil Diesel:
Selсть Synthe M (e.g., Selenia Turbo Diesel 10W-40 or equivalent ACEA B3/B4 specification).
Coolant:
Paraflu UP or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant with anti-corrosion additives (typically 50% concentration).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 or DOT 3.
Twin Spark Engine:
Spark plug wear (four plugs per cylinder), potential oil consumption, timing belt tensioner failure (regular checks vital).
Busso V6 Engine:
Timing belt and water pump replacement essential, potential thermostat issues, oil leaks from valve covers.
Jtd Diesel Engine:
Turbocharger issues, EGR valve clogging, potential DMF (Dual Mass Flywheel) wear on higher mileage vehicles.
Suspension Components:
Wear on front wishbone bushes and drop links, leading to clunking noises and poor handling.
Electrical Gremlins:
Can suffer from various electrical glitches due to aging wiring or component failures, particularly around window regulators and central locking.
Brand Focus:
Alfa Romeo is renowned for its sporting heritage, passionate Italian design, and engaging driving experience.
First Generation:
The Alfa Romeo 156 replaced the 155 and was a significant departure in styling and engineering, introducing the iconic 'Alfa Romeo scudetto' grille integrated into the front bumper.
Facelifts:
Received a significant facelift in 2003, with updated styling (especially front and rear lights), improved interior materials, and revised suspension.
Production Period:
1997-2007 (156) / 1997-2006 (156 Sportwagon)
Manufacturing Plant:
Pomigliano d'Arco, Naples, Italy.
