🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Fiat

Model:

Tipo

Model Years Covered:

1988, 1989, 1990, 1991

Chassis Code Range:

149_A_, 149_B_, 149_C_, 149_E_, 149_F_, 149_G_, 149_H_, 149_L_, 149_M_, 149_N_, 149_P_, 149_Q_, 149_R_, 149_S_, 149_T_

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The Fiat Tipo was a significant model for Fiat in the late 1980s and early 1990s, aiming to compete in the compact family car segment with a focus on practicality, spaciousness, and value. This manual serves mechanics and owners seeking detailed repair information for these specific model years.

Segment Competitors:

Competed with vehicles such as the Volkswagen Golf, Ford Escort, Opel/Vauxhall Astra, Peugeot 309, and Renault 19.

Manual Benefits:

Provides detailed step-by-step procedures, troubleshooting guidance, service data, and pictorial diagrams, enabling efficient and accurate repair and maintenance. The instant PDF download offers immediate access.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Workshop Service Repair

Total Pages:

240

Type:

Workshop Service Repair Manual (PDF)

Language:

English

File Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Complete engine overhaul, diagnostics, timing, lubrication system, cooling system, fuel system (injection/carburetor), ignition system, exhaust system.

Transmission:

Manual and Automatic transmission disassembly, assembly, adjustments, repair, and fluid specifications.

Drivetrain:

Front-wheel drive system, differential, CV joints, driveshafts, clutch system.

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension systems, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, bushings, alignment specifications.

Steering:

Steering rack, power steering system (if equipped), steering column, tie rods, wheel alignment procedures.

Brakes:

Front and rear brake systems (disc/drum), hydraulic system, ABS (if equipped), parking brake, bleeding procedures, component replacement.

Electrical System:

Complete electrical diagrams, wiring harnesses, battery, alternator, starter, lighting system, fuses, relays, ignition switch, power windows, central locking, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) if applicable.

Body And Chassis:

Body panel removal and installation, doors, windows, mirrors, bumpers, interior trim, sound deadening, rust prevention, structural components.

HVAC:

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system components, operation, diagnostics, and repair.

Fuel Tank And Exhaust:

Fuel tank removal and installation, fuel lines, exhaust manifold, catalytic converter, mufflers, pipes.

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance intervals, fluid changes (oil, coolant, brake fluid, transmission fluid), filter replacements, tune-ups, inspections.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon problems, symptom-based troubleshooting, fault finding trees, wiring diagram interpretation.

Repair:

Detailed step-by-step repair instructions for all vehicle systems and components, including removal, disassembly, cleaning, inspection, repair, assembly, and installation.

Adjustments:

Precise adjustment procedures for engine timing, idle speed, carburetor/throttle body, brakes, clutch, parking brake, suspension alignment.

Diagnostics:

Component testing, electrical system diagnostics, fuel system pressure testing, ignition system analysis, emission control system diagnostics.

Special Tools:

Identification and usage instructions for special service tools required for specific repair and adjustment operations.

Depth:

Comprehensive, 'bumper-to-bumper' coverage suitable for professional mechanics and advanced DIY enthusiasts. Includes detailed explanations, pictorial diagrams, and exploded views.

📊 Manual Specifications

PDF Quality:

High-resolution, printable quality; all pages are fully printable.

Printability:

Yes, all pages are printable.

Binding:

Digital (PDF file download)

Media Type:

Digital (PDF)

Os Compatibility:

Windows, Mac, Linux OS compatible.

Software Requirement:

Adobe Reader required for viewing and printing.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Variants:

This manual likely covers a range of Fiat Tipo engines from this era, commonly including naturally aspirated petrol engines such as the 1.1L (1108cc), 1.4L (1372cc), 1.6L (1585cc), and potentially the 2.0L Lampredi DOHC (1995cc) found in performance variants like the Tipo 2.0 and later GT models. It may also include diesel variants like the 1.7D and 1.9D.

Performance Data:

Performance figures vary by engine. For instance, a 1.6L engine might produce around 75-90 hp, while the 2.0L Lampredi could deliver upwards of 110-130 hp. Specific torque figures will be detailed within the manual.

Fuel Delivery:

Early models may feature carburetors (e.g., Weber or Solex), while later models and larger engines typically utilize multi-point fuel injection (MPI) systems. The manual will detail the specific fuel system components and procedures for each engine variant.

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission Type:

Most Fiat Tipo models were equipped with a 5-speed manual transmission as standard.

Optional Transmission Type:

An automatic transmission was often available as an option, typically a 3-speed or 4-speed unit, depending on the engine and market.

Transmission Features:

The manual will cover clutch operation, gearbox disassembly and assembly, differential servicing, driveshaft and CV joint maintenance, and specific fluid type and capacity requirements for both manual and automatic transmissions.

📐 Dimensions

Body Styles:

The Fiat Tipo was primarily offered as a 3-door hatchback and a 5-door hatchback. A 4-door sedan (Fiat Tempra) and a 5-door station wagon (Fiat Tipo Station Wagon / Tempra SW) were also part of the wider Tipo platform family, though this manual focuses on the Tipo hatchback.

Interior Features:

Known for its surprisingly spacious interior for its class, offering good passenger comfort and a practical layout. The manual will include details on interior trim removal and installation.

Curb Weight:

Curb weight varied depending on engine and specification, typically ranging from approximately 1000 kg to 1150 kg.

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Testing:

The Fiat Tipo underwent crash testing during its development. Specific Euro NCAP ratings or equivalent from that era would be referenced in more contemporary documentation, but this manual will cover the vehicle's safety features and construction.

Active Safety:

Features may include power-assisted brakes, anti-lock braking system (ABS) on higher trims or as an option, and good handling characteristics.

Passive Safety:

Standard passive safety features would include seat belts, reinforced body structure, side impact beams (depending on market regulations), and potentially driver's side airbag on later models or higher trims.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment Systems:

Infotainment systems in this era were basic, typically consisting of an AM/FM radio, often with a cassette player. Higher trims might have featured more advanced audio systems. The manual covers the electrical systems related to these components.

Driver Assistance Features:

Driver assistance features were limited in this period. ABS was an option on some models. The manual focuses on mechanical and basic electrical systems rather than advanced electronic driver aids.

Connectivity Features:

Connectivity was non-existent in the modern sense. The focus would be on basic vehicle functions and the electrical systems supporting them.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 10,000-15,000 km (6,000-9,000 miles) or annually, whichever comes first. The manual will provide specific intervals based on driving conditions.

Timing Belt Replacement:

For most petrol engines (e.g., 1.4L, 1.6L), timing belt replacement is recommended every 60,000-80,000 km (37,000-50,000 miles) or every 4-5 years. Diesel engines may have slightly different intervals. Crucial to follow manual's guidance.

Engine Oil:

Commonly requires SAE 10W-40 or 15W-40 API SG or higher specification oil. Specific viscosity and API rating will be detailed for each engine type.

Coolant:

A mixture of distilled water and ethylene glycol-based antifreeze (typically a 50/50 mix) is required. Specific Fiat or industry-standard antifreeze type will be specified.

Brake Fluid:

Typically DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid, depending on the braking system (especially if ABS equipped). The manual will specify the correct type and capacity.

Transmission Fluid Manual:

GL-4 hypoid gear oil, typically SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90. Capacity will vary by transmission type.

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

ATF (Automatic Transmission Fluid) of a specific type, often Dexron II or equivalent. Capacity and change intervals will be detailed.

Common Problems:

Potential issues can include aging electrical components, minor rust in wheel arches and sills, wear in suspension bushings, and occasional carburetor or fuel injection system issues on older models. This manual will help diagnose and repair these.

📚 Vehicle History

Fiat Legacy:

Fiat has a long history of producing popular and practical compact and family cars, building on a reputation for innovation and accessible automotive solutions.

Tipo Development:

The Fiat Tipo was launched in 1988, designed by Ercole Spada. It was part of Fiat's strategy to modernize its lineup and offer a competitive front-wheel-drive platform. It won the European Car of the Year award in 1989.

Production Period:

The Fiat Tipo was produced from 1988 to 1995. The years covered by this manual represent the initial and key production years of this model.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

European Car Of The Year:

The Fiat Tipo was awarded the European Car of the Year title in 1989, highlighting its innovative design, practicality, and market appeal at the time of its launch.