🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Fiat

Model:

Punto

Year:

1996

Generation Code:

Type 176

👋 Introduction

Target Audience:

DIY car owners, independent mechanics, those seeking to save on repair costs

Value Proposition:

Cost-effective, in-depth knowledge, self-sufficiency in repairs, convenience of digital access

Download Convenience:

Faster downloading in a couple of clicks

Accessibility:

Repair anytime, anywhere on your gadget

Cost Savings:

Save a lot of money from car repairs

Knowledge Acquisition:

In-depth knowledge, valuable tips for beginners and experienced users

Availability:

Access to vast collection of useful information, avoids bookstore searching

📋 Manual Details

Manual Scope:

Comprehensive All Service Repair

Estimated Page Count:

Extensive (specific count not provided, but implied to be thorough)

Type:

Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Service, Repair, Maintenance, Fuel Injection, Emission System, Engine Control System, Cooling System

Transmission:

Service, Repair

Brakes:

Brake System Service, Repair

Electrical:

Wiring Diagram, Electrical System Service, Repair

Suspension Steering:

Suspension, Steering Service, Repair

Chassis Body:

Chassis/Body, Restraint System Service, Repair

Axles:

Axle Service, Repair

Maintenance Procedures:

General Maintenance, Periodic Lubrication

Repair Procedures:

Disassembly, Reassembly, Repair, Refurbishment, Renovation, Mending, Fixing

Troubleshooting:

Troubleshooting guides

Depth:

In-depth understanding of intricacies and peculiarities of design and construction

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Required Software:

Adobe PDF Reader, WinZip

Operating System Compatibility:

All versions of Windows & Mac

Printability:

Printable (implied by PDF format)

Binding:

Digital Download (N/A for physical binding)

Paper Quality:

Digital (N/A for physical paper type)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Variants Covered:

Likely covers common petrol and diesel variants for the 1996 Punto (e.g., 1.1L FIRE, 1.2L SPI, 1.4L GT Turbo, 1.7L TD)

Horsepower Range:

Varies by engine: ~55 hp (1.1L) to ~130 hp (1.4L GT Turbo)

Torque Range:

Varies by engine: ~86 Nm (1.1L) to ~180 Nm (1.4L GT Turbo)

Fuel Delivery:

Includes Fuel Injection (SPI, MPI) and potentially Carburetor (earlier/base models, though less likely for 1996)

Coolant Type:

Typically Ethylene Glycol based coolant, requires specific concentration

Catalytic Converter:

Standard equipment on most 1996 models for emissions control

ECU Coverage:

Details on Engine Control Unit (ECU) functions, diagnostics, and sensor data

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Standard:

Manual (5-speed common)

Transmission Type Optional:

Automatic (e.g., 3-speed or CVT on some variants, though less common for 1996 models)

Clutch System:

Hydraulically actuated clutch service and repair

Transmission Fluid:

Specific gear oil (e.g., API GL-4) and capacity details provided

📐 Dimensions

Body Styles:

3-door hatchback, 5-door hatchback

Length:

Approx. 3,760 mm (3-door), 3,850 mm (5-door)

Width:

Approx. 1,630 mm

Height:

Approx. 1,420 mm

Curb Weight:

Varies by engine/trim, typically 950 - 1100 kg

🛡️ Safety Features

Euro Ncap Rating:

Early models had 3-star rating for adult occupant protection

ABS:

Available on higher trims or as an option

Traction Control:

Rarely standard, potentially optional on performance variants

Airbags:

Driver airbag standard, passenger airbag optional on many models

Seatbelts:

Pre-tensioned front seatbelts

💡 Technology Features

Radio Options:

Factory fitted radios with AM/FM and cassette player common.

Power Steering:

City Mode power steering (variable assist) available on many models, enhancing low-speed maneuverability.

Remote Central Locking:

Optional feature on many trims.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically 15,000 km or 12 months, whichever comes first (check specific engine variant)

Timing Belt Interval:

Critical for FIRE engines; typically 90,000 - 120,000 km or 5-7 years, replacement recommended with water pump.

Engine Oil Specification:

e.g., SAE 10W-40 API SG/SH or ACEA A2-96, consult manual for exact specs per engine.

Coolant Specification:

50% Ethylene Glycol Antifreeze / Distilled Water mixture.

Brake Fluid Specification:

DOT 3 or DOT 4

Common Problems:

Timing belt failure if not replaced at intervals, suspension wear (especially front struts and bushings), electrical gremlins (e.g., central locking, dashboard lights), rust on sills and wheel arches, clutch wear.

Engine Reliability:

FIRE engines generally robust but require diligent maintenance. 1.4 GT Turbo can be prone to head gasket issues if overheated.

📚 Vehicle History

Manufacturer:

Fiat Automobiles S.p.A., an Italian manufacturer with a long history of small car production.

Segment:

Supermini (B-segment)

Introduction Year:

1995 (for the Type 176 generation)

Manufacturing Location:

Primarily Italy, Poland, and other Fiat assembly plants.

Generation Name:

Type 176

🏆 Awards & Recognition

European Car Of The Year:

Fiat Punto (1995) - European Car of the Year winner.

Reliability Perception:

Mixed perceptions; generally reliable with proper maintenance, but older models can exhibit typical age-related issues.