Segment:
Compact Executive Sedan / Sportwagon
Key Competitors:
BMW 3 Series, Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Audi A4, Volvo S60
Design Philosophy:
Known for distinctive Italian styling, engaging driving dynamics, and a premium interior feel.
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides factory-level expertise to enable significant savings on maintenance and repair labor costs.
Engine Service Repair:
Comprehensive engine overhaul, component diagnostics, and repair procedures.
Transmission Service Repair:
Detailed procedures for manual and automatic transmission maintenance, repair, and overhaul.
Brake System:
Inspection, repair, and maintenance of all brake components including ABS.
Wiring Diagram:
Complete and detailed electrical wiring schematics for all vehicle systems.
Electrical System:
Diagnosis and repair of all electrical components and circuits, including lighting, power accessories, and control modules.
Suspension:
Repair and maintenance of front and rear suspension systems, including components like shock absorbers, springs, and control arms.
Periodic Lubrication:
Specifications and procedures for all lubrication points and fluid changes.
Steering:
Diagnosis and repair of power steering system, steering rack, and related components.
Cooling System:
Maintenance and repair of radiator, coolant, thermostat, water pump, and fan systems.
Fuel Injection Fuel System:
Detailed troubleshooting and repair of fuel pumps, injectors, lines, and management systems.
Emission System:
Information on emission control components, diagnosis, and repair to meet regulatory standards.
Heater Air Conditional:
Diagnosis and repair of HVAC system, including refrigerant, blower, and climate controls.
Engine Control System:
In-depth coverage of Engine Control Unit (ECU) functions, sensors, actuators, and diagnostic procedures.
Chassis Body:
Body repair, chassis component replacement, and alignment procedures.
Restraint System:
Information on airbags, seatbelts, and associated control systems.
Interior:
Repair and maintenance of interior trim, seats, and dashboard components.
Differential Drive:
Service and repair of differential units and drive shafts.
Axle:
Repair and replacement of front and rear axles and CV joints.
General Maintenance:
Regular servicing, fluid checks, filter replacements, and inspection schedules.
Troubleshooting:
Advanced diagnostic guides to identify and resolve common and complex vehicle problems.
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for all repair and replacement tasks, from minor to major.
Tune Up:
Guidance on optimizing engine performance through proper tuning procedures.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Detailed methods for diagnosing faults using onboard diagnostics (OBD) and specialized tools.
Depth:
Factory-level technical detail, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts.
Visual Aid Quality:
Includes all necessary illustrations, drawings, and photos for clear procedural guidance.
Engine Options:
Likely includes 1.6L, 1.8L (Twin Spark), 2.0L JTS, and 3.2L Busso V6 petrol engines, as well as 1.9L JTD/JTDm and 2.4L JTD/JTDm diesel engines for 2004 models. Specific coverage depends on the exact manual variant, but 'ALL STYLES COVERED' implies broad coverage.
Typical Performance:
Varies significantly by engine. For example, the 2.0L Twin Spark produced around 155 hp, while the 3.2L Busso V6 could produce up to 240 hp.
Injection Type:
Multi-point fuel injection (MPI) for Twin Spark, Direct Injection (JTS), and Common Rail Diesel Injection (JTD/JTDm).
Euro Ncap Rating:
Achieved a 4-star Euro NCAP rating for adult occupant protection in earlier configurations, with updates for 2004 likely maintaining similar structural integrity.
Active Safety:
ABS with EBD, Traction Control System (TCS), Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) often standard or optional.
Passive Safety:
Multiple airbags (front, side, curtain), pre-tensioned seatbelts, crumple zones.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 10,000-15,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first, depending on engine type and oil used. Refer to manual for precise intervals.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Crucial for Twin Spark and Busso V6 engines, typically every 36,000 miles (60,000 km) or 3-5 years. Diesel engines utilize a timing chain or belt with longer intervals. Manual will specify.
Engine Oil Specification:
Specific viscosity grades (e.g., 10W-40, 5W-40, 0W-30) and API/ACEA specifications will vary by engine. Manual will detail correct Selenia or equivalent oils.
Coolant Specification:
Paraflu UP or equivalent long-life antifreeze/coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 4 brake fluid (e.g., Tutela DOT 4 or equivalent).
Common Wear Items:
Potential for wear on front suspension components (wishbones, bushings), ignition coils (Twin Spark), lambda sensors, and water pumps. Diesel engines can experience turbocharger and DPF issues (if fitted).
Electrical Gremlins:
While improved in later models, earlier 156s could be prone to minor electrical faults. The manual's detailed wiring diagrams are invaluable for diagnosing these.
Brand Legacy:
Alfa Romeo boasts a rich racing heritage and a reputation for building driver-focused, aesthetically pleasing vehicles with a passionate following.
Series Development:
The Alfa Romeo 156, introduced in 1997, was a significant model that revitalized the brand. The 2004 model represents a facelifted version (Phase 2) with updated styling, engines, and technology.
Manufacturing Period:
The Alfa Romeo 156 was produced from 1997 to 2006. The 2004 model falls within the later production years of the original platform before the introduction of the Alfa Romeo 159.
