Market Segment:
Compact executive car, known for its sporty handling and distinctive Italian styling
Key Competitors:
BMW 3 Series, Audi A4, Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Volvo S40/V40
Selling Points:
Engaging driving dynamics, luxurious interior appointments for its class, stylish design, powerful engine options (especially V6 variants)
Coverage Scope:
Comprehensive service and repair for the Alfa Romeo 156
Estimated Page Count:
Likely over 1000 pages (typical for comprehensive factory service manuals, although specific count not provided)
Type:
Factory Service and Repair Manual
Language:
English (based on product description targeting a broad audience)
Powertrain:
Engine Mechanical (including Cylinder Head, Cylinder Block), Cooling System, Fuel System, Exhaust System, Engine Control System, Emission Control Systems, Lubrication System, Ignition System, Starting System, Charging System, Transmission (Manual Transaxle System, Automatic Transaxle Assy)
Chassis:
Brake System (including ABS, Brake Booster, Brake Master Cylinder), Steering System, Suspension Systems (Front and Rear), Wheel and Tire System, Drive Shaft, Differential Case Assy
Body And Electrical:
Body Repair, Interior (Instrument Panel, Seats, Roof Headlining), Exterior (Hood, Doors, Bumpers, Glass), Lighting System, Wiper and Washer System, Supplemental Restraint System (Airbag systems), Power Window Control System, Power Steering, Audio & Visual System, Climate Control (Heater & Air Conditioner)
Wiring And Diagnostics:
Wiring Diagrams, Wire Harness Repair, Diagnostic procedures for various systems
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes (oil, coolant, brake fluid, transmission fluid), filter replacement, lubrication
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, overhaul, and adjustment
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts, symptom-based troubleshooting, common fault diagnosis
Depth:
Detailed technical specifications, torque values, clearances, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), electrical schematics, component testing procedures
Digital Format:
PDF (Portable Document Format)
Print Capability:
Printable pages for on-demand use, allowing users to print only necessary sections
Binding:
N/A (Digital format, not a physical book)
Paper Quality:
N/A (Digital format, users can print on desired paper)
Engine Options:
Various inline-4 (Twin Spark) and V6 (Busso) engines. Specific details would vary by model year and market. Examples include: 1.6L Twin Spark, 1.8L Twin Spark, 2.0L Twin Spark, 2.0L JTD (diesel), 2.5L V6, 3.0L V6.
Horsepower Range:
Approximately 105 hp (1.6L) to 250 hp (3.2L V6 GTA)
Torque Range:
Approximately 140 Nm (1.6L) to 300 Nm (3.2L V6 GTA)
Injection Type:
Multi-point fuel injection (MPI) for petrol engines, Common Rail Direct Injection (CRDI) for JTD diesel engines
ECU Type:
Various Bosch Motronic and FENIX engine control units depending on engine and year
Timing Belt Replacement:
Critical for Twin Spark and V6 engines. Typically every 60,000-80,000 km or 5 years. Manual would specify exact interval and procedure.
Standard Transmission Type:
5-speed or 6-speed Manual Transaxle
Optional Transmission Type:
Q-System (4-speed automatic with manual override) or Selespeed (Automated Manual Transmission with paddle shifters)
Transmission Fluid Spec:
Manual: API GL-4 or GL-5 specification gear oil (e.g., 75W-90). Automatic/Selespeed: Specific ATF (Automatic Transmission Fluid) and hydraulic fluid required. Manual will list exact types and capacities.
Clutch Type:
Hydraulically operated single dry plate clutch
Length:
Approximately 4450-4515 mm (depending on variant)
Width:
Approximately 1740-1750 mm
Height:
Approximately 1410-1430 mm
Curb Weight:
Approximately 1350-1550 kg (depending on engine and trim)
Gross Vehicle Weight:
Typically around 1900-2100 kg
Euro Ncap Rating:
Received a 4-star Euro NCAP rating in frontal and side impact tests for earlier models. Later facelifts may have improved ratings.
Active Safety Systems:
ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), EBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution), Traction Control System (ASR), Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) on some models
Passive Safety Features:
Front and side airbags, pretensioner seatbelts, crumple zones, strengthened A and B pillars, seat belt warning system
Airbag Coverage:
Frontal airbags for driver and passenger, optional side airbags (curtain and side impact), potential for seat position sensors and side airbag sensors front and rear
Audio System:
Factory fitted radios with CD players, optional Bose sound systems, amplifier antenna assemblies, and receiver condenser assemblies were common. Steering wheel audio controls on higher trims.
Driver Aid Features:
Cruise control, rear parking sensors (on later models), automatic climate control, power mirror control systems
Early Connectivity:
Limited by era, primarily focused on audio and basic climate control functions. No modern smartphone integration or advanced telematics typical of later vehicles.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 10,000-15,000 km or 12 months, depending on engine type and oil used. Manual will specify exact intervals and recommended oil grades.
Spark Plug Replacement:
For Twin Spark engines, replacement of the secondary spark plug is critical for optimal performance. Intervals vary but are often around 40,000-60,000 km.
Engine Oil Spec:
Recommended synthetic oils like Selenia K (or equivalent) with specifications such as ACEA A3/B4 and API SN/CF. Viscosities like 10W-40 or 5W-40 are common. Exact spec in manual.
Coolant Spec:
Paraflu UP (or equivalent) extended life coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with deionized water. Manual will specify exact product and capacity.
Brake Fluid Spec:
DOT 4 brake fluid. Manual will specify change interval (typically every 2 years).
Common Wear Items:
Wear on front suspension components (wishbones, ball joints), ignition system issues (Twin Spark coil packs, spark plug degradation), potential electrical gremlins, radiator fan issues, exhaust manifold cracks (V6).
Alfa Romeo Specifics:
The 'Busso' V6 engines are renowned for their sound but require diligent maintenance, particularly regarding the timing belt and oil changes. Twin Spark engines require careful attention to their dual spark plug system.
Alfa Romeo Heritage:
Alfa Romeo has a long history of producing sporty and stylish Italian cars, emphasizing driving pleasure and distinctive design since its founding in 1910.
156 Generation:
Introduced in 1997, replacing the Alfa Romeo 155. Known for its distinctive styling, innovative front suspension, and the introduction of the acclaimed Alfa Romeo 'Busso' V6 engine in a smaller chassis.
Facelifts:
Received a significant facelift in 2003 (often referred to as the '156 Facelift' or '156 Sportwagon facelift'), featuring updated styling, interior refinements, and revised engine options.
Production Years:
1997 - 2005 (replaced by the Alfa Romeo 159)
Manufacturing Location:
Pomigliano d'Arco, Italy
