Vehicle Segment:
Compact Executive / Sports Sedan
Key Competitors:
BMW 3 Series (E36), Mercedes-Benz C-Class (W202), Audi A4 (B5), Volvo S40
Unique Selling Points:
Renowned Alfa Romeo driving dynamics, distinctive Italian styling, powerful engine options (including Busso V6), front-wheel drive and Q4 all-wheel drive variants
Diy Savings:
Enables owners to perform extensive repairs and maintenance themselves, saving significant dealership labor costs
Technician Equivalence:
Provides the same information used by certified Alfa Romeo technicians
Engine Mechanical:
Detailed diagnostics, repair, overhaul, timing, cooling, lubrication, fuel delivery
Engine Management:
ECU diagnostics, sensor identification and testing, ignition system, emissions control
Transmission Manual:
Clutch, gearbox overhaul, shift mechanisms, differential
Transmission Automatic:
Hydraulic control, valve body, torque converter, electronic controls (if applicable)
Suspension Front:
McPherson struts, control arms, bushings, anti-roll bars, steering knuckle
Suspension Rear:
Multi-link, trailing arms, shock absorbers, springs, bushings
Braking System:
Hydraulic system, calipers, rotors, pads, ABS system diagnostics and repair, brake booster
Steering System:
Power steering pump, rack and pinion, tie rods, steering column
Electrical System Lighting:
Headlights, taillights, interior lighting, fog lights, bulb specifications
Electrical System Instrumentation:
Dashboard cluster, gauges, warning lights, warning chimes
Electrical System Comfort:
Power windows, power mirrors, central locking, climate control, seat heating
Electrical System Audio:
Factory radio, speaker wiring, antenna system
Body And Chassis:
Bumpers, fenders, doors, hood, trunk lid, roof panel
HVAC System:
Air conditioning, heater core, blower motor, refrigerant system, climate control unit
Safety Systems:
Airbag system diagnostics and replacement, seatbelt mechanisms
Preventive Maintenance:
Oil changes, fluid checks and flushes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, belt inspection/replacement
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, common fault identification
Component Repair:
Step-by-step instructions for disassembly, repair, and reassembly of all major components
Diagnosis:
Detailed diagnostic procedures for all vehicle systems, including electrical and mechanical faults
Wiring Schematics:
Comprehensive electrical wiring diagrams for all circuits, including component locations and wire colors
Specifications:
Torque values, clearances, tolerances, fluid capacities, electrical resistance values
Adjustment Procedures:
Valve adjustments, idle speed adjustments, headlight aiming, brake adjustment
Depth Of Coverage:
Factory level, from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds
Diagnostic Tools:
References to specific diagnostic tools and procedures used by dealerships
Engine Options:
Various petrol engines including Twin Spark (2.0L I4) and V6 Busso (2.5L V6, 3.0L V6), and diesel engines (e.g., 1.9L TD, 2.5L TD)
Twin Spark 2.0L Specs:
Approx. 150-155 hp, 186-192 Nm torque, 4 valves per cylinder, twin spark ignition system for improved combustion
Busso V6 2.5L Specs:
Approx. 190 hp, 225 Nm torque, 24 valves, celebrated for its sound and performance
Busso V6 3.0L Specs:
Approx. 210-230 hp, 260-290 Nm torque, as fitted to later models and GTV/Spider variants, potentially including some 155 variants
Acceleration 0-60Mph Typical:
Varies by engine, e.g., 8-9 seconds for 2.0 Twin Spark
Top Speed Typical:
Varies by engine, e.g., 210-225 km/h for 2.0 Twin Spark
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point fuel injection (MPI) for petrol engines, direct injection or indirect injection for diesel engines
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Petrol (RON 95/98 recommended), Diesel
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 10,000-15,000 km or 12 months, whichever comes first (check manual for specific engine type)
Timing Belt Replacement:
Crucial for Twin Spark engines; typically 60,000-80,000 km or 5 years. Failure can cause catastrophic engine damage.
Engine Oil Grade:
e.g., Selenia 20K (API SG, ACEA A2-96) or equivalent SAE 10W-40, 10W-50 or 15W-40 depending on climate and engine variant. Refer to manual for precise specifications.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based coolant with anti-corrosion inhibitors, typically pink or red. (e.g., Paraflu UP)
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4 or GL-5 SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 gear oil
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Specific ATF (Automatic Transmission Fluid) type, e.g., DEXRON-II/III or equivalent.
Common Issues Twin Spark:
Timing belt tensioner failure, ignition coil failure (twin spark system), oil leaks from valve cover gaskets and cam seals, potential ECU issues, rust in wheel arches and sills.
Common Issues V6 Busso:
Cam belt issues (critical maintenance item), oil cooler leaks, thermostat housing leaks, exhaust manifold cracks (less common on 155 than later models), rust.
Common Issues General:
Minor electrical gremlins, worn suspension bushings, radiator fan issues, HVAC control panel failures.
Alfa Romeo Heritage:
Long history of sporty, driver-focused cars with distinctive styling and often innovative engineering.
Platform Sharing:
Shared platform with the Fiat Tipo and Lancia Dedra, but with distinct Alfa Romeo chassis tuning and styling.
Design Philosophy:
Designed by Enrico Fumia, aiming for a modern, aerodynamic, and aggressive look to compete with German rivals.
Production Location:
Milan, Italy (Pomigliano d'Arco plant)
Production Volume:
Significant production numbers, over 270,000 units produced across its lifespan.