🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Alfa Romeo

Model:

164

Applicable Years:

1991-1995

Chassis Code:

Tipo 164

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The Alfa Romeo 164 represented Alfa Romeo's entry into the premium executive sedan segment, aiming to compete with established European luxury marques. It was known for its distinctive Pininfarina styling and engaging driving dynamics.

Competitors:

Competed against vehicles like the BMW 5 Series, Mercedes-Benz E-Class, Audi 100/A6, and Jaguar XJ during its production run.

Design Philosophy:

Emphasis on driver engagement, elegant Italian design, and robust engineering, particularly in later iterations.

Usefulness:

Essential tool for owners undertaking maintenance and repairs, aiding in accurate part ordering and efficient troubleshooting.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage:

Complete tear down and rebuild, maintenance, troubleshooting, parts diagrams, torque specifications.

Estimated Page Count:

Likely several hundred pages, typical for a comprehensive workshop manual of this era.

Type:

Workshop Manual / Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Digital Format:

PDF (.iso also mentioned, likely containing PDF files)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Service:

Engine disassembly, assembly, tuning, diagnostics, lubrication, cooling system, fuel system (including injection), exhaust system, emission control systems.

Transmission Service:

Manual and automatic transmission removal, installation, repair, fluid specifications, and driveline components.

Braking System Service:

Hydraulic system, disc brakes (front and rear), anti-lock braking system (ABS) where applicable, brake fluid specifications, bleeding procedures.

Suspension Steering Service:

Front and rear suspension components (struts, control arms, bushings), steering rack, power steering system, wheel alignment specifications.

Electrical System Service:

Wiring diagrams, fuse box layout, battery, charging system, ignition system, lighting, instrumentation, power windows, central locking, diagnostic connectors.

Body Chassis Service:

Body panel removal and installation, interior trim, glass, doors, hinges, locks, underbody coatings, chassis components.

Maintenance Procedures:

Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, belt inspection/replacement, fluid level checks.

Troubleshooting Diagnostics:

Systematic diagnostic procedures, common fault identification, symptom-based troubleshooting guides.

Repair Rebuild Procedures:

Detailed step-by-step instructions for component disassembly, repair, and reassembly.

Depth:

Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed electrical schematics and diagnostic information).

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Printability:

Fully printable, allowing users to print specific sections as needed.

Binding:

Digital (N/A for physical binding)

Paper Quality:

Digital (N/A for physical paper type)

Visual Aids:

Tons of pictures and diagrams.

Searchability:

Likely searchable if text-based PDF.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

V6 (Busso V6)

Displacement:

Available in 2.0L (164 TS), 3.0L (164 V6) and later 3.0L 24v V6 variants.

Horsepower Range:

Approximately 148 hp for the 2.0L Twin Spark, 190-200 hp for the 12v 3.0L V6, and up to 230 hp for the 24v V6.

Torque Range:

Varies by engine. Manual provides specific figures for each variant.

Injection Type:

Bosch Motronic fuel injection system.

Specific Variants Covered:

The manual covers the various V6 engine configurations and the Twin Spark 4-cylinder engine offered within the 1991-1995 model years.

ECU Details:

Information on Engine Control Units (ECU) and their functions, diagnostic modes.

🔧 Transmission

Manual Gearbox:

Typically a 5-speed manual transmission (e.g., Getrag).

Automatic Gearbox:

Optional 4-speed automatic transmission (e.g., ZF).

Drivetrain:

Front-wheel drive (FWD) configuration.

Transmission Fluid:

Specific API GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil for manual transmissions and ATF specification for automatics, detailed in the manual.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approximately 4700-4750 mm (varies slightly by market and year).

Width:

Approximately 1760-1770 mm.

Height:

Approximately 1400-1420 mm.

Curb Weight:

Around 1450-1600 kg, depending on engine and equipment.

Wheelbase:

Approximately 2700 mm.

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

Typically 5x98

Tire Sizes:

Common sizes include 205/55 R16, 205/50 VR17, and 225/45 ZR17 for performance variants.

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Safety:

Limited official crash test data available from this era. The manual will detail structural components and potential safety system maintenance.

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was available on most models and is covered in detail.

Airbags:

Driver's airbag became standard in later models. Passenger airbags were optional or absent.

Seatbelts:

Pre-tensioner seatbelts may be present on later models.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory fitted Clarion or other branded audio systems. Manual may cover basic troubleshooting of speakers and head unit.

Cruise Control:

Cruise control was an option and its operation and diagnostics are likely covered.

Diagnostics:

On-board diagnostics (OBD) systems of the era (e.g., ALFA-OBD) and diagnostic connector locations are detailed, crucial for troubleshooting.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 7,500 to 10,000 miles (12,000 to 15,000 km) or annually, depending on driving conditions. Specific interval for different engines is in the manual.

Timing Belt Replacement:

Crucial for V6 engines. Intervals vary but are often around 30,000-50,000 miles (50,000-80,000 km). Failure can cause catastrophic engine damage. Covered in detail.

Engine Oil Type:

Multi-viscosity oils, typically 10W-40 or 15W-50 (e.g., Selenia). Manual specifies exact grade and capacity.

Coolant Type:

Ethylene glycol based coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Manual specifies type and capacity.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid. Manual specifies correct type and bleed procedure.

Common Faults:

Known issues can include ECU failure, aging electrical components, suspension wear (bushings), and potential timing belt issues if not replaced on schedule. The manual provides diagnostic pathways for these.

Oil Filter P N:

Specific part numbers for oil, air, and fuel filters for various engine variants are included.

Spark Plugs:

Specific spark plug types, gap settings, and torque specifications provided for each engine.

Engine Bolt Torques:

Comprehensive list of critical torque specifications for engine components, cylinder heads, and more.

📚 Vehicle History

Alfa Romeo Legacy:

Alfa Romeo has a rich motorsport heritage and a reputation for producing driver-focused cars with distinctive engineering and styling.

164 Development:

The 164 was part of the Alfa Romeo 'Tipo 4' project, sharing its platform with the Fiat Croma, Saab 9000, and Lancia Thema. It was designed by Pininfarina and introduced in 1987, with significant updates and engine options introduced throughout its lifecycle until 1998.

Production Period:

The model range covered by this manual ran from 1991 to 1995, encompassing various facelifts and engine updates.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Press Reviews:

While specific awards are not listed, contemporary automotive press often praised its styling, handling, and the distinctive sound of the Busso V6 engine.