Market Position:
The Fiat Tempra was positioned as a practical and affordable family car in the compact/mid-size segment, competing with vehicles like the Ford Escort, Opel Astra, and Volkswagen Golf.
Competitive Analysis:
Key competitors included models from Ford, Volkswagen, Opel/Vauxhall, Peugeot, Renault, and Toyota. The Tempra often offered good value for money, especially with its spacious interior and available estate version.
Key Features:
Spacious interior, distinctive aerodynamic styling, independent front suspension, available with a range of petrol and diesel engines, and a comfortable ride. The estate version offered significant practicality.
Manual Value:
This manual provides the same detailed information used by professional mechanics, enabling owners to perform maintenance, diagnostics, and repairs efficiently and accurately, saving time and money.
Engine Mechanical:
Complete disassembly, assembly, inspection, and repair procedures for all engine variants.
Engine Electrical:
Ignition system, starting system, charging system, engine control unit (ECU) diagnostics and wiring diagrams.
Fuel System:
Fuel injection systems (MPI, SPI), fuel pumps, injectors, pressure regulators, fuel tank, and lines.
Transmission:
Manual transmission (5-speed), automatic transmission (4-speed), clutch system, transmission fluid specifications and change intervals.
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive system, drive shafts, CV joints, wheel bearings.
Suspension:
Front MacPherson struts, rear torsion beam or independent suspension (depending on variant), shock absorbers, springs, control arms, anti-roll bars.
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, steering column, steering wheel removal and installation.
Brakes:
Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes (or disc on some models), hydraulic system, ABS system (if equipped), brake fluid specifications and bleeding procedures.
Body And Chassis:
Body panel removal and installation, doors, hood, trunk, interior trim, structural components, corrosion protection.
Electrical System:
Lighting system (headlights, taillights, interior), dashboard instruments, power windows, central locking, horn, wipers, washers, battery, fuses, and relays.
HVAC System:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system components, refrigerant types, servicing, and troubleshooting.
Safety Systems:
Seat belts, airbags (if equipped), child restraint systems.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance tasks, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-ups, tune-ups.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon faults across all vehicle systems, symptom-based troubleshooting guides.
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for virtually all components, from minor adjustments to major overhauls.
Disassembly Assembly:
Detailed instructions for removing, disassembling, inspecting, repairing, and reassembling all major components and sub-assemblies.
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems.
Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearances, tolerances, fluid capacities, and electrical values.
Depth:
Professional-grade technical information suitable for experienced mechanics and advanced DIY enthusiasts, covering diagnostics, component repair, and rebuilds.
Engine Variants Covered:
Includes details for various Fiat FIRE and Lampredi-designed engines (e.g., 1.4L, 1.6L, 1.8L, 2.0L petrol; 1.9L naturally aspirated and turbocharged diesel).
Typical Power Output:
Ranges from approximately 70 HP (1.4L) to 137 HP (2.0L 16v). Diesel variants typically offered around 65 HP (NA) to 90 HP (Turbo).
Torque Specifications:
Specific torque figures for various engine components are detailed within the manual.
Fuel Injection Types:
Electronic multi-point fuel injection (MPI) and single-point fuel injection (SPI) depending on engine and trim.
Carburetion:
Some earlier or lower-spec models might feature carbureted systems, which would also be covered.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 10,000-15,000 km or 12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used (consult manual for exact recommendations).
Timing Belt Replacement:
Crucial for non-interference engines. Typically every 60,000-80,000 km or 4-5 years. Manual will specify exact interval and procedure.
Engine Oil Type:
API SJ/SL or ACEA A2/A3 specifications, viscosity typically 10W-40 or 5W-40 depending on climate. Manual specifies exact grades.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol based antifreeze, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Manual specifies type and capacity.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4, depending on system specifications. Manual provides exact type and replacement intervals.
Common Issues:
Corrosion on body panels and suspension components, aging electrical connectors leading to intermittent faults, wear on suspension bushes, potential head gasket issues on certain engine variants, fuel pump reliability.
Diesel Specific Issues:
Glow plug issues, injector pump problems, turbocharger wear on 1.9 TD models.
