Vehicle Segment:
Compact sports coupe, known for its aerodynamic design.
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts and owners seeking detailed repair and maintenance information.
Key Competitors:
Ford Probe, Honda Prelude, Mitsubishi Eclipse, Toyota Celica, Alfa Romeo GTV.
Design Philosophy:
Sleek, low-drag coefficient, coupe styling, engineered for performance and aesthetics.
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides in-depth, step-by-step guidance for DIY repairs and professional servicing, ensuring longevity and optimal performance of the Opel Calibra.
Engine Mechanical:
Detailed overhaul, assembly, disassembly, and component testing for all engine variants.
Engine Management:
Fuel injection systems (Motronic, Multec), ignition systems, sensors, actuators, and ECU diagnostics.
Transmission Manual:
Overhaul, adjustment, and troubleshooting of manual gearboxes.
Transmission Automatic:
Repair, adjustment, and service procedures for automatic transmissions.
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive system, axles, CV joints, differential (if applicable).
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension systems, struts, springs, control arms, bushings, wheel alignment specifications.
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, pump, fluid specifications, and troubleshooting.
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), brake pads, discs, calipers, lines, and bleeding procedures.
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, fuses, relays, and wiring diagrams.
Body And Chassis:
Body panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, glass, seals, interior trim, and chassis components.
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system service, refrigerant handling, and component replacement.
Comfort And Convenience:
Power windows, locks, mirrors, seats, sunroof operation, and associated electrical components.
Safety Systems:
Seat belt mechanisms, airbag system (if applicable) precautions and service (though detailed airbag component diagnostics may be limited in older manuals).
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, and general inspection points.
Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon faults, including symptom-based troubleshooting guides.
Repair And Rebuild:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, disassembly, repair, assembly, and installation.
Adjustments:
Precise procedures for adjusting timing, idle speed, clutch, brakes, and other mechanical and electrical components.
Diagnostics:
Methods for diagnosing electrical and mechanical issues, often with flowcharts or logic trees.
Special Tool Usage:
Identification and application instructions for specialized service tools required for specific repair operations.
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to major component overhaul and rebuilds.
Diagnostic Detail:
Detailed diagnostic procedures, including specific fault codes (OBD I), sensor readings, and voltage/resistance checks.
Illustrations:
Numerous exploded diagrams, pictorial illustrations, and photographs to guide repair processes.
Specifications Detail:
Inclusion of critical service data, including tightening torques, clearances, wear limits, and adjustment values.
Engine Options 1988-1995:
2.0L C20NE (85 kW / 115 hp), 2.0L C20XE (110 kW / 150 hp) (Redtop), 2.5L V6 X25XE (125 kW / 170 hp), 2.0L Turbo C20LET (150 kW / 204 hp) (4x4 only).
Typical 0 60 Mph:
Varies by engine; e.g., C20XE approx. 8.5 seconds, V6 approx. 8.0 seconds.
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point fuel injection (MPI) or Sequential Fuel Injection (SFI) depending on engine variant.
Fuel Requirement:
Unleaded gasoline (Octane rating as specified in manual, typically RON 95/98).
Ignition Type:
Electronic Ignition (Distributorless Ignition System - DIS on some models).
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based coolant, typically with a 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Standard Transmission Type:
5-speed manual transmission.
Optional Transmission Type:
4-speed automatic transmission.
Drivetrain Options:
Front-wheel drive (FWD) standard, All-wheel drive (AWD) available on 2.0 Turbo (C20LET) models.
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 gear oil (specific Opel/GM fluid recommendations apply).
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron II or Dexron III (specific GM specifications).
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 10,000-15,000 km (6,000-9,000 miles) or 12 months, whichever comes first. Refer to manual for exact interval based on driving conditions.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Crucial for C20NE and C20XE engines. Generally recommended every 60,000-90,000 km (37,000-56,000 miles) or 4-5 years. Refer to manual for precise interval and inclusion of water pump replacement.
Engine Oil Type:
API SJ/SL, ACEA A3/B3 or A3/B4, SAE 5W-40 or 10W-40 (specific viscosity depends on climate and engine variant, consult manual).
Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 6.5-7.5 liters (depending on engine variant).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Common Wear Items:
Suspension bushings, wheel bearings, exhaust system, brake components, ABS sensors, rust in specific areas (wheel arches, sills).
Engine Specific Issues:
C20XE: Head gasket issues, valve stem seals. C20LET: Turbocharger reliability, intercooler hose leaks.
Electrical Issues:
Wiring harness degradation, central locking problems, instrument cluster faults.
Opel Design Philosophy:
Opel has a long history of producing reliable and innovative vehicles, often focusing on German engineering and practicality.
Calibra Development:
Developed by Opel in Germany, it was based on the platform of the Opel Vectra (Opel Vectra A). Its design was heavily influenced by the 'GT' moniker, aiming for a premium sports coupe feel.
Production Locations:
Primarily manufactured at the Opel plant in Rüsselsheim, Germany, and also in Finland by Valmet Automotive.
Global Availability:
Sold globally under various brand names, including Opel Calibra, Vauxhall Calibra (UK), and Chevrolet Calibra (South America).
