Positioning:
The Alfa Romeo 166 was positioned as a stylish, performance-oriented executive car aiming to compete with established German rivals in the premium sedan segment.
Key Competitors:
BMW 5 Series, Mercedes-Benz E-Class, Audi A6, Jaguar S-Type, Volvo S80
Design Philosophy:
Emphasized Italian design flair, sporty handling, and luxurious interiors.
Distinctive Attributes:
Unique styling, often front-wheel drive platform (shared with Lancia Kappa), potent V6 engines (especially the Busso V6).
Primary Focus:
Maintenance, Service, Repair
Secondary Focus:
Technical Specifications, Diagnostics, Equipment Details
Estimated Page Count:
Extensive (specific count not provided, but implied comprehensive)
Type:
ELearn / Service and Repair Manual
Language:
English (assumed based on product description context)
Format:
Digital Download (PDF or similar)
Powertrain:
Engine, Transmission, Fuel System, Exhaust System, Cooling System, Ignition System, Lubrication System
Chassis:
Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering System, Braking System (including ABS), Wheels & Tires
Electrical:
Engine Control Unit (ECU), Body Control Module (BCM), Lighting Systems, Instrumentation, Audio System, Power Accessories, Airbag System, Security System
Body:
Bodywork (interior & exterior), Doors, Hood, Trunk, Glass, Seating Systems, HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning)
Maintenance:
Scheduled Maintenance, Fluid Changes, Filter Replacements, Inspection Procedures
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting Guides, Symptom-Based Diagnostics, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) interpretation (likely integrated with ELearn functionality)
Repair:
Component Removal and Installation, Assembly and Disassembly, Component Adjustment, System Overhauls
Special Procedures:
Wheel Alignment, Brake System Bleeding, Air Conditioning System Service, SRS (Supplemental Restraint System) Service
Depth:
Comprehensive - covering routine maintenance to complex mechanical and electrical repairs, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts.
Format Details:
Digital, likely PDF. Searchable text and high-resolution images/diagrams are typical of ELearn manuals.
Printability:
Printable sections are mentioned, implying good resolution for home/workshop printing.
Binding:
Not Applicable (Digital Format)
Paper Type:
Not Applicable (Digital Format)
Transmission Type Gasoline:
5-speed Manual
Transmission Type Diesel:
5-speed Manual
Transmission Type Gasoline:
4-speed Automatic (Q-System)
Transmission Type Diesel:
4-speed Automatic
Traction:
Front-Wheel Drive (FWD)
Length:
Approx. 4,730 mm (186.2 in)
Width:
Approx. 1,790 mm (70.5 in)
Height:
Approx. 1,430 mm (56.3 in)
Trunk Capacity:
Approx. 510 liters (18.0 cu ft)
Curb Weight:
Varies by engine, approx. 1,500 - 1,650 kg (3,300 - 3,630 lbs)
Euro Ncap Rating:
4 Stars (for models tested)
Braking System:
ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), EBD (Electronic Brake-force Distribution)
Traction Control:
ASR (Anti-Slip Regulation) / Traction Control System
Airbags:
Front, Side, and Curtain Airbags (availability varies by trim and market)
Body Structure:
Reinforced safety cell, crumple zones
Audio System:
Factory fitted Clarion or Blaupunkt systems, often with CD player and Radio. Bose sound system available on higher trims.
Navigation:
Optional GPS navigation system with integrated screen.
Cruise Control:
Standard or optional depending on trim level.
Parking Sensors:
Optional rear parking sensors.
Phone Integration:
Optional integrated hands-free mobile phone system (often GSM-based).
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 10,000-15,000 km (6,000-9,000 miles) or 1 year, whichever comes first (refer to manual for exact specification).
Timing Belt Interval:
Critical for Twin Spark and Busso V6 engines. Typically 90,000-120,000 km (56,000-75,000 miles) or 5-6 years. Failure is catastrophic.
Engine Oil Gasoline:
Refer to manual, but typically API SJ/SL or ACEA A3/B3, viscosity like 10W-40 or 5W-40 depending on climate.
Engine Oil Diesel:
Refer to manual, but typically API CF or ACEA B3/B4, viscosity like 5W-40.
Coolant:
Paraflu UP or equivalent (long-life coolant).
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4 or GL-5, SAE 75W-90.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Refer to manual for specific ATF (e.g., Dexron III or equivalent).
Engine Wear:
Twin Spark engines known for potential valve stem seal wear, leading to oil consumption. Busso V6 engines can suffer from timing belt tensioner issues if not replaced on schedule.
Electrical Gremlins:
Like many Italian cars of the era, can be prone to electrical issues, particularly with sensors, ECUs, and wiring harnesses.
Suspension Components:
Wear in bushings, ball joints, and drop links can affect handling and ride quality.
Rust:
Can affect common areas like wheel arches, sills, and subframes, especially in regions with road salt.
