🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Alfa Romeo

Model:

166

System:

ICS (Integrated Control System)

Model Generation:

Type 936

Ics System Designation:

Integrated Control System

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Executive Sedan / Large Family Car

Brand Philosophy:

Alfa Romeo's positioning as a manufacturer of stylish, driver-focused vehicles with a rich heritage.

Key Competitors:

BMW 5 Series, Mercedes-Benz E-Class, Audi A6, Jaguar S-Type, Volvo S80.

Design Philosophy:

Emphasizes Italian design flair, sporty handling, and a luxurious interior.

Ics Integration Strategy:

The ICS aimed to provide a centralized control hub for key vehicle functions, enhancing driver convenience and integration of modern technology for its era.

📋 Manual Details

Manual Type:

Owner's Manual (focus on ICS functionality)

Language:

English (assumed, common for international sales)

Page Count:

Approx. 60-80 pages (estimated for ICS-specific manual)

Format:

Printed Booklet

📖 Manual Coverage

Ics System Overview:

Detailed explanation of the Integrated Control System architecture and its purpose within the vehicle.

Climate Control Ics:

Operation and customization of the automatic climate control system, including dual-zone functionality, air distribution, and sensor integration.

Audio System Ics:

Operation of the integrated audio system, including radio (AM/FM), CD player, sound settings, and speaker configuration.

Navigation Ics:

Guidance on the use of the ICS-integrated navigation system, including map display, destination entry, route planning, and voice commands (if applicable).

Trip Computer Ics:

Information on the integrated trip computer functions, such as fuel consumption, average speed, distance to empty, and trip resets.

Phone Integration Ics:

Details on Bluetooth or integrated phone system functionality, including pairing, call handling, and contact management (if equipped).

Vehicle Settings Ics:

Customization options for various vehicle settings accessible through the ICS, such as lighting preferences, door lock behavior, and display configurations.

Initial Setup Ics:

Step-by-step instructions for initial system setup and personalization.

Basic Operation Controls:

Explanation of button layouts, menu navigation, and basic control interactions within the ICS.

Troubleshooting Tips:

Basic troubleshooting advice for common ICS issues or error messages.

System Updates Maintenance:

Information regarding any user-level system updates or basic maintenance related to the ICS, if applicable.

Depth Of Coverage:

Focus on user operation, feature explanation, and basic functionality. Does not delve into deep electrical diagnostics or component-level repair.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format Type:

Printed

Print Resolution:

High-quality offset printing (typical for OEM manuals)

Binding Style:

Perfect Bound or Stapled Booklet

Paper Quality:

Glossy or Semi-gloss coated paper for durability and clarity of images.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Family:

Alfa Romeo 'Busso' V6 (most prominent for 166, though other engines existed)

Engine Displacement:

Commonly 3.0L (2959 cc) and 3.2L (3179 cc) for V6 variants.

Engine Configuration:

60-degree V6, naturally aspirated

Horsepower 3.0L:

Approx. 220 PS (217 hp; 162 kW) @ 6300 rpm

Torque 3.0L:

Approx. 286 Nm (211 lb-ft) @ 5000 rpm

Horsepower 3.2L:

Approx. 240 PS (237 hp; 177 kW) @ 6200 rpm

Torque 3.2L:

Approx. 289 Nm (213 lb-ft) @ 4800 rpm

Fuel Injection:

Multi-point sequential fuel injection (Bosch Motronic or similar)

Engine Sound:

Renowned for its distinctive, sporty exhaust note characteristic of the 'Busso' V6.

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission Type:

5-speed Manual (common on many variants)

Optional Transmission Type:

4-speed Automatic (e.g., 'Sportronic' by ZF)

Automatic Transmission Modes:

May include comfort and sport modes for different driving characteristics.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 4718 mm (185.7 in)

Width:

Approx. 1787 mm (70.4 in)

Height:

Approx. 1426 mm (56.1 in)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 2700 mm (106.3 in)

Seating Capacity:

5

Trunk Volume:

Approx. 500 liters (17.6 cu ft) (estimated)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1500-1600 kg (3307-3527 lbs) (depending on engine and features)

🛡️ Safety Features

Euro Ncap Rating:

4 Stars (for models tested during its production run, specific ICS integration does not affect this)

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (Bosch or Continental)

Esp:

Electronic Stability Program (often called VDC - Vehicle Dynamic Control)

Traction Control:

ASR (Anti-Slip Regulation)

Airbags:

Front airbags, side airbags, curtain airbags (depending on trim and options).

Seatbelts:

Pre-tensioning seatbelts with load limiters.

💡 Technology Features

Ics Display Type:

Central monochrome or color LCD screen integrated into the dashboard.

Audio Controls:

Steering wheel mounted audio controls and direct button access on the ICS unit.

Cruise Control:

Integrated and managed via steering wheel controls or ICS menu.

Phone Connectivity:

Optional Bluetooth hands-free system, requiring pairing via the ICS.

Ics Benefit:

Provided a unified interface for managing multiple vehicle functions, aiming to simplify operation and enhance the user experience compared to discrete button arrays.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 15,000 km (9,320 miles) or 12 months, whichever comes first (check specific engine variant).

Timing Belt Replacement:

Crucial for 'Busso' V6 engines. Often recommended every 60,000-100,000 km (37,000-62,000 miles) or 5 years due to potential catastrophic failure if it breaks.

Engine Oil Type:

Synthetic SAE 10W-40 or 10W-50, API SJ/SL or ACEA A3-98 (refer to manual for exact specification and viscosity based on climate).

Coolant Type:

Paraflu UP (ethylene glycol based) or equivalent with OAT (Organic Acid Technology).

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 4

Transmission Fluid Manual:

API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 synthetic gear oil.

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

ZF TE-ML 11 or equivalent (refer to ZF specifications for exact fluid type).

Engine Wear:

Potential for oil leaks from cam cover gaskets and intake manifold. Timing belt tensioner and idler pulley wear can be critical.

Electrical Gremlins:

Common in older Italian cars; issues can range from minor warning light faults to more complex system failures, often related to wiring harnesses or module communication. The ICS itself could be prone to display issues or intermittent functionality.

Suspension Wear:

Wear on front wishbone bushings and rear trailing arm bushings is common, leading to imprecise handling.

Climate Control System:

Actuator failures within the HVAC system can lead to poor air distribution. ICS display issues might also impact climate control readability.

📚 Vehicle History

Alfa Romeo Legacy:

Founded in 1910, Alfa Romeo is known for its performance, distinctive design, and racing pedigree.

166 Predecessor:

Successor to the Alfa Romeo 164.

166 Development:

Designed by Alfa Romeo Style Centre under Walter de Silva, launched in 1998.

Facelift:

Received a significant facelift in 2003 with updated styling and improved features.

Production Years:

1998–2007

Production Location:

Milan, Italy

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Design Awards:

While not directly awarded for the ICS, the Alfa Romeo 166 itself received praise for its striking Italian design.

Auto Express Review:

Often noted for its excellent handling and distinctive style, though sometimes criticized for reliability compared to German rivals.