Production Years Covered By Manual:
1988-1995
Engine Variants Covered By Manual:
1.4L Petrol (1372cc), 1.6L Petrol (1580cc)
Engine Code General 1.4L:
Commonly found codes include F.138.A, F.138.B (variations exist based on specific market/updates)
Engine Code General 1.6L:
Commonly found codes include F.159.A, F.159.B (variations exist based on specific market/updates)
Positioning:
A value-oriented compact car from Fiat, the Tipo was designed to be practical and spacious for its class, competing with vehicles like the Volkswagen Golf, Ford Escort, and Opel/Vauxhall Astra of the late 1980s and early 1990s.
Competitors Era:
Primary competitors during its production run included models from Volkswagen (Golf Mk2/Mk3), Ford (Escort Mk4/Mk5), Opel/Vauxhall (Kadett E/Astra F), Peugeot (309/405), Renault (19).
Design Philosophy:
The Tipo was characterized by its modern (for the time) styling, emphasis on interior space and practicality, and robust construction, often featuring galvanized steel for corrosion resistance. Its engines offered a balance of economy and reasonable performance.
General Coverage:
Engine Overhaul & Rebuilding, Brakes, Sunroof, Timing Belt Replacement, Troubleshooting & Diagnostics, Wiring Diagrams, Engine Performance, Front End & Alignment, Suspension, Transmission Removal/Installation & In-Car Servicing, Air Conditioning Service, Computer Diagnostic Trouble Codes & Trees, Firing Orders, Serpentine Belt Routings, U-Joint & CV-Joint Service, Repair Procedures, Vacuum Diagrams.
Estimated Page Count:
Not explicitly stated, but described as 'complete' and covering 'every single detail' which typically suggests several hundred pages for this era of vehicle.
Type:
Service Repair Manual / Workshop Manual
Powertrain:
Engine mechanicals (1.4L & 1.6L), cooling system, lubrication system, fuel system (carbureted and early injection variants), ignition system, exhaust system, transmission (manual and automatic, where applicable to the engine variants).
Chassis:
Braking system (disc/drum configurations), suspension (front MacPherson strut, rear torsion beam/independent depending on sub-model), steering system, wheel alignment specifications.
Electrical:
Full wiring diagrams for engine management, lighting, instrumentation, comfort features (sunroof, A/C), power accessories. Diagnostic trouble codes and troubleshooting trees for electronic control units (ECUs).
Body And Comfort:
Sunroof operation and repair, air conditioning system service and refrigerant capacities.
Mechanical Repairs:
Engine rebuilds, cylinder head service, piston and connecting rod installation, crankshaft service, valve train adjustments, timing belt replacement, clutch replacement, transmission fluid changes and internal servicing, drive axle (CV-joint) replacement, U-joint service.
Maintenance:
Factory scheduled maintenance, fluid level checks and capacities, filter replacement (oil, air, fuel), spark plug replacement, serpentine belt routing and replacement, lubrication points.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides for common drivability issues, diagnostic trouble code (DTC) interpretation, electronic control module (ECM) diagnostics, vacuum leak testing, ignition system testing, fuel delivery testing.
Depth:
Comprehensive. Covers everything from basic maintenance and fluid checks to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including detailed component disassembly, reassembly, and torque specifications.
Format Details:
Digital PDF. Allows for zooming into detailed illustrations and diagrams, and selective page printing. Compatible with all versions of Windows & Mac. Requires Adobe PDF Reader.
Quality:
High resolution, suitable for clear viewing and printing of text, diagrams, and illustrations.
Type:
Digital Download (No physical binding)
Not Applicable:
N/A (Digital Format)
Configuration:
Inline-4 cylinder, SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft)
Fuel System:
Typically carbureted (e.g., Weber or Solex) or early electronic fuel injection (MPI) in later models or specific markets.
Approximate Horsepower:
Around 70-75 hp (varies by specific engine variant and market)
Approximate Torque:
Around 110-115 Nm (81-85 lb-ft) (varies by specific engine variant and market)
Configuration:
Inline-4 cylinder, SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft)
Fuel System:
Typically carbureted or early electronic fuel injection (MPI) depending on year and market.
Approximate Horsepower:
Around 75-90 hp (varies by specific engine variant and market)
Approximate Torque:
Around 125-135 Nm (92-99 lb-ft) (varies by specific engine variant and market)
Timing Belt Importance:
Crucial system. The manual details the critical timing belt replacement procedures and intervals. Failure to replace on time can result in catastrophic engine damage (interference engine).
Type:
5-speed manual transmission was standard on most variants.
Type:
3-speed or 4-speed automatic transmission was available as an option on some models/engine combinations.
Fluid Type Manual:
GL-4 rated gear oil (specific viscosity like 75W-90 or 80W-90 recommended, consult manual for exact specification).
Fluid Type Automatic:
ATF Dexron II or equivalent (consult manual for exact specification).
Crash Test Results Era:
While specific Euro NCAP ratings for this exact period are not readily available in a standardized format for all variants, the Tipo was designed with safety in mind for its time, featuring crumple zones and reinforced passenger cells. Specific market safety regulations would apply.
Braking System:
Front ventilated discs and rear drum brakes were common. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was an optional extra on higher trims or later models.
Restraints:
Seatbelts (pre-tensioners may be present on later models), manual seat adjustment. Airbags were not standard on early models and became an option later.
Features Era:
Basic factory fitted radio/cassette players were common. Options might have included CD players in later models. Features were generally limited compared to modern vehicles.
Features Era:
Limited. ABS was optional on some models. Power steering was common but not universal across all base trims. Cruise control was a rare option.
Features Era:
No connectivity features (e.g., Bluetooth, USB) were available in this era of vehicle.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 10,000-15,000 km (6,000-9,000 miles) or 12 months, whichever comes first. Always refer to the manual for the precise interval for the specific engine and oil type used.
Timing Belt Replacement Interval:
Critical interval. Often specified around 80,000 - 100,000 km (50,000 - 60,000 miles) or 5 years. This manual will provide the exact interval and procedure, which is vital.
Engine Oil Type:
API SG or SH, ACEA A2-96 or B2-96, viscosity typically 10W-40 or 15W-40. Consult the manual for precise manufacturer recommendations and OEM specifications.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze/coolant, typically a pre-mix or concentrate requiring mixing with distilled water. Color (e.g., blue, green, red) may indicate composition, but the manual will specify the correct type and concentration.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (hygroscopic, requires periodic replacement to maintain performance and prevent corrosion). Check manual for exact specification.
Common Wear Items:
Timing belt (critical), clutch wear, suspension bushings, exhaust components, ignition components (spark plugs, leads), radiator and hoses, rust can be an issue on older examples if not maintained.
Electrical Quirks:
Older automotive electrical systems can be prone to issues with wiring insulation degradation, corroded connectors, and failing relays or switches. The wiring diagrams in the manual are essential for diagnosis.
Fiat Automotive:
Fiat is an Italian automotive manufacturer with a long history dating back to 1899. Known for innovation and popular compact and subcompact cars, as well as commercial vehicles. The Tipo represented a significant step in Fiat's modernization efforts.
Tipo Development:
Launched in 1988, the Tipo was part of Fiat's 'Type Three' project, aiming for a modern, modular platform. It shared its platform with other Fiat Group models like the Alfa Romeo 155 and Lancia Dedra. It received a facelift in 1993.
Production Locations:
Primarily produced in Italy, with some assembly or production in other countries depending on market requirements.
