Design Philosophy:
The Fiat Coupe was designed as a sporty, stylish, and performance-oriented compact coupe, targeting buyers seeking a more exciting alternative to mainstream sedans.
Competitors:
Competed against vehicles like the Alfa Romeo GTV, Ford Probe, Honda Prelude, Nissan 200SX (S14), and Opel Calibra in its market segment.
Styling:
Distinctive and aggressive styling characterized by its unique 'dropped' shoulder line, angled headlights, and pronounced wheel arches, designed by Pininfarina.
Performance Variants:
Offered with a range of powerful engines, most notably the Turbo 16v and later the 20-valve Turbo variants, providing spirited performance.
Engine Mechanical:
Complete engine overhaul, cylinder head, block, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, timing belts, oil pump, lubrication system.
Engine Management:
Fuel injection systems (MPI), ignition system, electronic control unit (ECU) diagnostics, sensor testing, emission controls.
Transmission Manual:
5-speed manual gearbox, clutch assembly, gearbox overhaul, gear selection, shift linkage.
Transmission Automatic:
Not applicable for this specific manual's primary focus (typically manual transmission variants).
Suspension:
Front MacPherson struts, rear multi-link suspension, shock absorbers, springs, bushings, wheel alignment procedures.
Brakes:
Front ventilated discs, rear solid discs, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) components, brake fluid, caliper, master cylinder overhaul, bleeding procedures.
Steering:
Power assisted rack and pinion steering system, steering column, steering rack overhaul, power steering fluid.
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter motor), lighting, horns, wipers, power windows, central locking, fuse box layout, wiring diagrams.
Body And Chassis:
Body shell construction, panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, glass replacement, exterior trim, interior trim, sound deadening.
Climate Control:
HVAC system operation, heater core, air conditioning system (refrigerant, compressor, condenser, evaporator), fan blower.
Scheduled Maintenance:
Oil and filter changes, air filter replacement, fuel filter replacement, spark plug replacement, coolant flush, brake fluid replacement.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for engine performance, electrical faults, braking issues, starting problems using symptom-based guides.
Engine Repair:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for component replacement, timing belt replacement, head gasket replacement, rebuild procedures.
Transmission Repair:
Clutch replacement, gearbox internal repairs, shift linkage adjustment.
Brake System Repair:
Brake pad and disc replacement, caliper overhaul, brake line replacement, ABS component diagnostics and replacement.
Suspension And Steering Repair:
Replacement of ball joints, tie rod ends, control arms, shock absorbers, steering rack rebuild, power steering pump replacement.
Electrical Diagnostics:
Testing of sensors, actuators, wiring harnesses, starter, alternator, battery systems, fused circuits.
Bodywork Repair:
Door hinge adjustment, window regulator replacement, panel alignment, bumper repair, rust prevention and treatment.
Depth Of Information:
Comprehensive. Covers everything from routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Detailed symptom-based diagnostics, wiring schematics for electrical troubleshooting, component testing procedures.
Torque Specifications:
Extensive torque values provided for all critical fasteners (engine, suspension, brakes, drivetrain).
Special Tools:
Identification of necessary specialized tools for specific repair procedures.
Engine Oil Change:
Every 10,000 km (6,000 miles) or 12 months, whichever comes first.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Every 80,000 km (50,000 miles) or 5 years. Critical for engine longevity; failure can cause severe damage.
Spark Plugs:
Every 40,000 km (25,000 miles) for standard plugs, or 80,000 km (50,000 miles) for iridium/platinum plugs (if applicable).
Coolant Replacement:
Every 2-3 years or 40,000 km (25,000 miles).
Engine Oil:
API SJ or ACEA A3/B3 specifications, SAE 10W-40 or 10W-50 recommended (check manual for exact viscosity based on climate).
Coolant:
Ethylene glycol based coolant (e.g., Fiat Paraflu UP) mixed 50/50 with distilled water.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 brake fluid.
Power Steering Fluid:
ATF Dexron II or equivalent (check specific manual section).
Gearbox Oil:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 synthetic gear oil.
Timing Belt Tensioner:
Tensioner can fail, leading to timing belt slippage. Regular inspection and replacement are crucial.
Rust:
Can be susceptible to rust, particularly around wheel arches, sills, and underbody areas. Proper rust proofing and inspection are recommended.
Turbo Reliability:
Early turbo models could experience issues with wastegate actuator, turbocharger seals, and intercooler hoses if not properly maintained or driven hard without adequate warm-up/cool-down periods.
Suspension Bushings:
Wear in suspension bushings can lead to vague handling and knocking noises.
ABS Sensor Failures:
Common for ABS warning lights to illuminate due to faulty wheel speed sensors.