Segment:
Compact family car (hatchback)
Target Audience:
Families and individuals seeking practical, affordable, and robust transportation.
Competitors:
Volkswagen Golf, Ford Escort, Opel Astra, Peugeot 309, Renault 19, Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla.
Design Philosophy:
Designed by Italdesign Giugiaro, the Tipo was praised for its modern styling, spacious interior, and galvanized steel body for improved rust resistance.
Platform Significance:
Based on the Fiat 'Type 1' platform, which also underpinned other Fiat and Lancia models of the era, contributing to cost-effective manufacturing and development.
Engine:
Detailed overhaul, tuning, cooling system, lubrication system, fuel injection (likely Bosch LE-Jetronic or L-Jetronic for these engines), ignition system, exhaust system.
Transmission:
Manual transmission (likely 5-speed) overhaul, clutch replacement, drive shafts, shift linkage.
Brakes:
Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes, hydraulic system, brake fluid, adjustment, troubleshooting.
Steering:
Manual steering rack, alignment, lubrication.
Suspension:
Front McPherson struts, rear torsion beam or independent suspension (depending on specific model variant), shock absorbers, springs, bushings, wheel bearings.
Electrical:
Battery, charging system (alternator), starter motor, lighting system, ignition system components, dashboard instrumentation, fuses, relays, basic wiring diagrams.
Bodywork:
Body panel adjustments, trim removal and installation, door mechanisms, glass replacement, rust prevention and minor repair guidance.
Maintenance:
Regular servicing, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, coolant checks, brake fluid checks, belt tension adjustments.
Repairs Replacements:
Component removal and installation for most major systems, including engine components, transmission, brakes, suspension, steering, and electrical parts.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic guides for common problems, symptom-based troubleshooting, checking for faults in engine, electrical, and other systems.
Tune Ups:
Engine tuning procedures, timing adjustments, carburetor (if applicable) or fuel injection adjustments.
Safety Precautions:
Essential safety guidelines for working on vehicles, proper use of tools, handling of hazardous materials.
Depth:
Comprehensive coverage suitable for DIY mechanics and professional technicians. Includes detailed step-by-step instructions, torque specifications, diagrams, and troubleshooting advice.
Engine 1 Displacement:
1372cc
Engine 1 Configuration:
Inline 4-cylinder, SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft)
Engine 1 Fuel System:
Fuel Injection (likely Bosch LE-Jetronic or L-Jetronic)
Engine 1 Approx Power:
Approx. 70-75 hp
Engine 1 Approx Torque:
Approx. 105-110 Nm
Engine 2 Displacement:
1580cc
Engine 2 Configuration:
Inline 4-cylinder, SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft)
Engine 2 Fuel System:
Fuel Injection (likely Bosch LE-Jetronic or L-Jetronic)
Engine 2 Approx Power:
Approx. 80-85 hp
Engine 2 Approx Torque:
Approx. 125-130 Nm
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (Petrol)
Spark Plug Recommendation:
Refer to manual for specific types (e.g., Champion, NGK, Bosch) and heat ranges.
Engine Oil Specification:
Refer to manual for specific viscosity (e.g., 10W-40, 15W-40) and API service classification.
Standard Transmission Type:
5-speed Manual
Optional Transmission Type:
Automatic transmission may have been available on some variants, but the manual focuses on manual gearbox repair.
Clutch Type:
Hydraulically actuated single dry plate clutch.
Manual Transmission Fluid:
Refer to manual for specific gear oil type and capacity (e.g., GL-4).
Crash Test Data:
Limited data available for this era; expected to be typical for its class at the time.
Braking System:
Front ventilated disc brakes, rear drum brakes. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was optional on higher trim levels.
Seatbelts:
Standard front seatbelts, rear seatbelts dependent on specification.
Body Structure:
Integral body structure with crumple zones and side impact protection beams.
Oil Change Interval:
Refer to manual, typically 10,000-15,000 km or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Crucial! Refer to manual for interval, often around 60,000-80,000 km or 4-5 years. Failure can cause catastrophic engine damage on interference engines.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Refer to manual, typically 30,000-40,000 km.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol based antifreeze/coolant. Refer to manual for specific ratio with water and type (e.g., HOAT).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid (hygroscopic, requires periodic replacement).
Common Issues 1:
Electrical system gremlins (corrosion on connections, faulty relays), rust formation (especially on wheel arches, sills, and rear hatch), worn suspension bushings, timing belt wear.
Common Issues 2:
Fuel injection system issues (injectors, fuel pump, fuel pressure regulator), exhaust system corrosion, starter motor solenoid failure.
Fiat History:
Fiat, an Italian automotive manufacturer, has a long history dating back to 1899. Known for its innovative and often popular small to medium-sized cars.
Tipo Development:
The Fiat Tipo was designed to be a modern, practical, and affordable family car, replacing older models like the Fiat Ritmo/Strada. It was part of Fiat's strategic focus on front-wheel-drive platforms.
Production Years:
1988-1995 (for the first generation)
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Italy, but also produced in other Fiat Group facilities.
