Segment:
Executive Sedan / Large Family Car
Key Competitors:
BMW 5 Series (E39), Mercedes-Benz E-Class (W210/W211), Audi A6 (C5), Jaguar S-Type, Volvo S80.
Design Philosophy:
Renowned for its distinctive Italian styling, sporty driving dynamics, and luxurious interior appointments, distinguishing it from more Germanic rivals.
Manual Coverage Scope:
Comprehensive workshop service and repair
Estimated Page Count:
Varies, potentially up to 5GB in file size, indicating extensive detail.
Manual Type:
Workshop Service Manual / Repair Manual / Factory Manual
Digital Format:
PDF (Downloadable, may be compressed in ZIP/.RAR/.EXE)
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, cooling system, lubrication system, transmission (manual and automatic variations, though specific types not detailed here), exhaust system.
Chassis:
Brake system, suspension (front and rear), steering system, driveline and axles.
Electrical:
Electrical system overview, battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, ignition system, body control modules, instrument cluster, infotainment system (basic diagnostics), wiring diagrams.
Body Chassis:
Body and chassis structural repairs, interior trim, exterior panels, doors, windows, HVAC system, safety systems (airbags, seatbelts).
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, inspections, lubrication.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, fault code interpretation (OBD-II likely), component testing procedures, diagnostic flowcharts.
Repair Rebuild:
Step-by-step repair procedures for all major mechanical and electrical components, including engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, brake system repairs, suspension component replacement, and body panel work.
Depth Of Coverage:
Extremely detailed, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts. Covers from basic maintenance to complete overhauls and complex diagnostics.
File Types Supported:
PDF, ZIP, RAR, EXE (for compression/delivery)
Printability:
Printable on any computer and printer, allowing for physical copies.
Binding Type:
N/A (Digital download, no physical binding)
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital download, no physical paper)
Engine Code:
Twin Spark (TS)
Displacement:
2.0 Litre (1970cc)
Configuration:
Inline-4 Cylinder
Valvetrain:
DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder (8 total), Twin Spark ignition system.
Primary Engine Petrol V6 2.5
Displacement:
2.5 Litre (2492cc)
Configuration:
60-degree V6
Valvetrain:
DOHC, 24 valves (4 per cylinder).
Primary Engine Petrol V6 3.0
Displacement:
3.0 Litre (2959cc)
Configuration:
60-degree V6
Valvetrain:
DOHC, 24 valves (4 per cylinder).
Primary Engine Petrol V6 3.2
Displacement:
3.2 Litre (3179cc)
Configuration:
60-degree V6
Valvetrain:
DOHC, 24 valves (4 per cylinder).
Primary Engine Diesel Jtd 10V
Displacement:
2.4 Litre (2387cc)
Configuration:
Inline-5 Cylinder
Fuel System:
Common Rail Direct Injection (JTD)
Valvetrain:
DOHC, 10 valves (2 per cylinder).
Primary Engine Diesel Jtd 20V
Displacement:
2.4 Litre (2387cc)
Configuration:
Inline-5 Cylinder
Fuel System:
Common Rail Direct Injection (JTD)
Valvetrain:
DOHC, 20 valves (4 per cylinder).
Horsepower Range:
Approx. 150 HP (2.0 TS) to 240 HP (3.2 V6) and 136 HP (2.4 JTD 10V) to 175 HP (2.4 JTD 20V).
Torque Range:
Varies by engine; V6 engines particularly noted for strong mid-range torque.
Petrol Injection:
Multi-point fuel injection (MPI) for TS and V6 engines.
Diesel Injection:
Common Rail Direct Injection (JTD) for diesel variants.
Standard Transmission:
Manual transmission (e.g., 5-speed or 6-speed depending on engine).
Optional Transmission:
Automatic transmission (e.g., Q-System or Selectronic for V6 models).
Transmission Notes:
Manual transmissions are typically driver-focused, while automatic options offer comfort and potentially quicker shifts in 'Q-System' variants.
Euro Ncap Rating:
Not extensively documented for early models, but generally considered to have good passive safety features for its era. Specific ratings may vary by test year.
Active Safety Systems:
ABS with EBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution), Traction Control (ASR), often optional ESP (Electronic Stability Program) on later models or higher trims.
Passive Safety Features:
Multiple airbags (front, side), pre-tensioned seatbelts, reinforced safety cell, crumple zones.
Infotainment System:
In-car entertainment system with radio, CD player, and optional navigation system. Early models may have basic displays.
Driver Assistance Features:
Cruise control, parking sensors (on some later models), rain-sensing wipers, auto-dimming rearview mirror.
Connectivity Options:
Limited by era; may include integrated phone preparation (Bluetooth not common on early models).
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 12,500 miles or 12 months (check manual for specific engine and oil type recommendations).
Timing Belt Interval:
Critical for Twin Spark and V6 engines. Typically 36,000 miles or 3 years for Twin Spark, and 72,000 miles or 5 years for V6 (consult manual for precise figures and specific engine variant).
Engine Oil Specification:
Refer to manual, typically Selenia for Alfa Romeo. SAE viscosity grades like 10W-40 or 5W-40 for petrol engines, and 5W-40 for diesel engines are common.
Coolant Specification:
Paraflu UP (antifreeze/coolant concentrate).
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 4.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
Refer to manual for specific gear oil specification (e.g., API GL-4 or GL-5).
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Refer to manual for specific ATF type (e.g., Tutela Transmission Fluid).
Common Issues Petrol:
Wear on Twin Spark ignition coils and spark plugs, potential for thermostat issues, cam belt tensioner failure (critical maintenance item), engine management sensor failures (e.g., MAF, lambda).
Common Issues Diesel:
Variable geometry turbocharger issues, injector problems, EGR valve issues, glow plug failures.
Common Issues General:
Minor electrical gremlins (e.g., window regulators, central locking), wear in suspension bushings and ball joints, potential for ECU failures, air conditioning system leaks.
Brand Philosophy:
Alfa Romeo is known for its passion, distinctive Italian design, sporty performance, and a rich racing heritage.
Generation:
The 166 replaced the Alfa Romeo 164. It was designed by Centro Stile Alfa Romeo and introduced at the Geneva Motor Show in 1998. It received a facelift in 2003, which included updated styling and some interior revisions.
Production Period:
1998-2007 (though manual covers up to 2008 for market clarity).
Manufacturing Plant:
Milan, Italy.
