Target Audience:
Discerning buyers seeking a blend of performance, style, and Italian engineering
Key Competitors:
BMW 5 Series, Mercedes-Benz E-Class, Audi A6, Jaguar S-Type
Design Philosophy:
Centro Stile Alfa Romeo design, offering distinctive Italian styling and luxury
Performance Focus:
Emphasis on driving dynamics and the renowned Alfa Romeo V6 engine
Manual Type:
Service and Repair Manual
Applicability:
All models, engines, trims, and transmission types of the Alfa Romeo 166 3.2 V6 (1998-2008)
Delivery Method:
Instant Digital Download
Source:
Official Factory Service Repair Manual
Estimated Pages:
Likely several hundred pages (typical for factory service manuals)
Engine:
Complete engine overhaul, component identification, timing, diagnostics, and repair
Fuel System:
Fuel injection system, throttle body, fuel pump, injectors, and diagnostics
Cooling System:
Radiator, water pump, thermostat, coolant flow, and troubleshooting
Lubrication System:
Oil pump, oil filter, oil passages, and oil pressure diagnostics
Chassis:
Suspension, steering, braking system, wheel alignment, and structural components
Electrical System:
Starter, alternator, battery, lighting, ignition system, and accessory circuits
Emission Control:
Catalytic converter, oxygen sensors, EGR system, and emission-related diagnostics
Bodywork:
Body panel removal, repair, interior trim, and exterior trim procedures
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, fault code interpretation, and diagnostic procedures
Maintenance:
Regular servicing, fluid changes, filter replacements, and inspection schedules
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for all major components and systems
Disassembly:
Complete disassembly of the vehicle and its components
Reassembly:
Detailed reassembly instructions with torque specifications
Troubleshooting:
Systematic approach to diagnosing and resolving common and uncommon issues
Depth Level:
Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to full rebuilds)
Diagrams:
High-quality, detailed diagrams and exploded views
Illustrations:
Step-by-step instructions with visual aids
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated V6
Displacement:
3.2 Liters (3179 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
93.0 mm x 77.0 mm (typical for this engine family)
Valve Train:
DOHC (Dual Overhead Camshafts), 24 Valves (4 valves per cylinder)
Horsepower:
Approximately 240 HP (177 kW) at 6200 RPM
Torque:
Approximately 300 Nm (221 lb-ft) at 4800 RPM
Injection Type:
Multi-point Sequential Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (RON 95 or higher recommended)
Oil Capacity:
Approximately 6.5 Liters (6.9 US Quarts)
Coolant Capacity:
Approximately 8.5 Liters (9.0 US Quarts)
Transmission Type:
6-Speed Manual Transmission
Transmission Type:
Q-System 4-speed automatic transmission (with sequential manual mode)
Manual Transmission Gearing:
Specific gear ratios provided in the manual for optimal performance
Manual Fluid Spec:
Refer to manual for specific SAE viscosity grade and API classification (e.g., GL-4 or GL-5)
Automatic Fluid Spec:
Refer to manual for specific ATF type and capacity
Length:
Approx. 4746 mm (186.9 in)
Width:
Approx. 1776 mm (69.9 in)
Height:
Approx. 1434 mm (56.5 in)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1550-1600 kg (3417-3527 lbs) depending on configuration
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Refer to vehicle VIN plate or manual for exact GVWR
Crash Test Performance:
Euro NCAP ratings for the era, specific results for the 166 would be detailed in the manual if available
Braking System:
ABS with EBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution), usually with ventilated front discs and solid rear discs
Traction Control:
ASR (Anti-Slip Regulation) likely standard or available
Stability Control:
VDC (Vehicle Dynamic Control) may be available on later models
Airbags:
Front airbags, side airbags, and potentially curtain airbags
Seatbelts:
Pre-tensioning seatbelts with load limiters
Chassis Structure:
Designed with crumple zones for enhanced impact protection
Audio System:
Integrated audio system with CD player, radio, and potentially navigation system on higher trims. Bose sound system was an option.
Climate Control:
Automatic dual-zone climate control
Cruise Control:
Standard on most models
Parking Sensors:
Optional rear parking sensors
Phone Integration:
Optional Bluetooth hands-free system on later models
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 15,000 km (9,300 miles) or 12 months, whichever comes first (refer to manual for specific conditions)
Timing Belt Replacement:
Crucial for the Busso V6 engine. Interval usually around 100,000 km (60,000 miles) or 5 years. Manual will specify exact interval and associated components (tensioners, idlers, water pump).
Coolant Change:
Typically every 2-3 years or a specified mileage (refer to manual)
Engine Oil Spec:
Refer to manual for specific SAE viscosity and API/ACEA classifications (e.g., Selenia K Pure Energy 5W-40 or equivalent)
Power Steering Fluid:
Refer to manual for specific fluid type (often ATF Dexron II/III compatible, but verify)
Common Wear Items:
Suspension components (bushings, ball joints), exhaust system, occasional electrical gremlins, cambelt tensioners (critical for Busso V6)
Engine Specific Notes:
The 'Busso' V6 is known for its glorious sound and strong performance, but requires meticulous maintenance, especially regarding the timing belt and oil changes. Oil consumption can increase with mileage.
Alfa Romeo Legacy:
Renowned for sporting heritage, passionate engineering, and distinctive Italian design since 1910
166 Development:
Successor to the Alfa Romeo 164, continuing the tradition of front-wheel-drive executive sedans with a focus on driving pleasure
Design Influences:
Cohesive design by Centro Stile Alfa Romeo, incorporating modern styling cues while retaining brand identity
Production Period:
1998-2007 (for the 166 model line)
Manufacturing Location:
Italy
Design Acclaim:
Consistently praised for its elegant and distinctive Italian styling, often cited as a benchmark for executive sedan design
Driving Dynamics Reviews:
Generally well-received for its engaging driving experience, particularly with the V6 engine and refined chassis tuning
