Market Position:
The Alfa Romeo 166 was positioned as a premium executive sedan, aiming to compete with established German luxury marques, offering distinctive Italian styling and a focus on driving dynamics, particularly with its renowned V6 engines.
Competitive Analysis:
Competed against vehicles like the BMW 5 Series (E39/E60), Mercedes-Benz E-Class (W210/W211), and Audi A6 (C5). Key differentiators included its passionate design, the sonorous Alfa Romeo 'Busso' V6 engine, and a more engaging driving experience compared to some rivals.
Key Features:
Renowned 'Busso' V6 engine (2.5L variant highlighted), sophisticated multi-link suspension, distinctive Italian styling, luxurious interior appointments, advanced (for its time) electronic systems.
Coverage Areas:
General Information, Specifications, Technical Features and Description, Rigging Information, Troubleshooting, Electrical System, Fuel System, Power Unit, Lower Unit, Bracket Unit, Maintenance, Index, Appendix
Page Count:
Not specified in product information, but described as extensive and detailed.
Manual Type:
Service Repair Factory Manual
File Format:
Disc Image File (.ISO) / Application (.exe)
Delivery Method:
Instant download link provided on the checkout page after payment completion.
Systems Covered:
Engine (including 2.5 V6 Busso), Fuel System, Electrical System (detailed schematics), Cooling System, Lubrication System, Exhaust System, Braking System, Steering System, Suspension System (front and rear), Drivetrain, Bodywork, Interior Systems, HVAC, Emissions Control.
Systems Covered Detail:
Detailed wiring diagrams for all electrical circuits, including lighting, ignition, engine management, power accessories, and body control modules. Includes diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) where applicable.
Procedures Included:
Routine Maintenance, Scheduled Servicing, Troubleshooting and Diagnostics, Component Removal and Installation, Overhaul and Rebuilding procedures, Electrical System Diagnosis and Repair, Fuel System Servicing, Brake System Maintenance and Repair, Suspension and Steering Adjustments, Body Panel Alignment and Repair, Air Conditioning System Servicing.
Procedures Included Detail:
Step-by-step repair instructions for engine components (e.g., valve cover removal, spark plug replacement, oil pan gasket), transmission servicing, clutch replacement, brake caliper overhaul, suspension bush replacement, electrical connector diagnosis, and HVAC system checks.
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive, covering from basic maintenance tasks to complex engine and transmission overhauls. Includes detailed diagnostic procedures and specifications essential for factory-level repairs.
Print Quality:
Printable without any restriction. High zoom capability on computer for clarity.
Software Requirements:
Requires DAEMON Tools, MagicISO, or similar software to mount the .ISO image. Alternatively, the .EXE file can be run directly.
Compatibility:
Compatible with Windows 32-bit operating systems.
Interactivity:
Allows for detailed zooming and clear viewing of diagrams, schematics, and text on a computer screen.
Binding Type:
Digital format (ISO/EXE), not applicable for physical binding.
Paper Type:
Digital format, not applicable for paper type.
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated V6 (Alfa Romeo 'Busso' engine)
Displacement:
2493 cc (2.5 Liters)
Horsepower Ps:
Approx. 190 PS (140 kW) at 6300 rpm (specific variant may vary slightly).
Torque Nm:
Approx. 230 Nm (169 lb-ft) at 5000 rpm (specific variant may vary slightly).
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Petrol (Octane rating as per manufacturer recommendation, likely 95 RON or higher).
Cooling System Type:
Water-cooled, pressurized system with a thermostat and expansion tank.
Lubrication System Type:
Wet sump lubrication system with an oil pump, oil filter, and oil cooler (if equipped).
Transmission Type:
Often paired with a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic transmission (Q-System).
Transmission Type:
4-speed Automatic (Q-System)
Features:
Manual: Clutch operation, gear selection. Automatic: Selectable modes, torque converter lock-up.
Safety Ratings:
Euro NCAP ratings for this era are available, but specific scores for the 166 may vary. Generally, it offered good occupant protection for its time.
Active Safety Features:
ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), EBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution), Optional Traction Control (ASR).
Passive Safety Features:
Front airbags, side airbags, seatbelt pretensioners, crumple zones.
Infotainment System:
Early models featured a basic radio/cassette player or CD player. Later models offered an integrated system with navigation and a larger display. The manual will detail system operation and basic troubleshooting.
Driver Assistance Features:
ABS, optional ASR (Traction Control). No advanced electronic stability control or adaptive cruise control was commonly fitted to this model.
Connectivity Features:
Limited connectivity by modern standards. May have provisions for CD changers or older analog phone systems.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 10,000-15,000 km or 12 months, whichever comes first (refer to manual for exact specification).
Timing Belt Replacement:
Critical for the Busso V6. Usually recommended every 60,000-80,000 km or 5 years due to potential catastrophic engine damage if it fails. This manual will detail the procedure and recommended intervals.
Engine Oil Specification:
Likely a fully synthetic 10W-40 or 5W-40 (API SL/SM, ACEA A3/B3 or A3/B4). Manual will provide precise OEM specifications.
Coolant Specification:
Ethylene glycol based coolant, typically pink or red (OAT type), with a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Manual will specify exact type and capacity.
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 4
Transmission Fluid Manual:
GL-4 or GL-5 SAE 75W-90 gear oil
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron III or equivalent for the Q-System automatic transmission. Manual will provide precise specifications and capacity.
Power Steering Fluid:
ATF Dexron II/III or specific Alfa Romeo specified fluid. Manual will confirm.
Common Issues:
Known issues for the 166 include: potential wear on suspension components, minor electrical gremlins (especially with older wiring), ABS sensor failures, and the critical need for timely timing belt replacement on the Busso V6. Rust can also be a concern in certain climates. The manual will provide diagnostic procedures for these and other potential problems.
Brand Heritage:
Alfa Romeo boasts a rich motorsport and automotive engineering heritage dating back to 1910, known for producing stylish, driver-focused vehicles with a distinctive Italian flair and iconic engines.
Model Evolution:
The 166 succeeded the Alfa Romeo 164. It was a significant evolution in terms of design, platform, and technology, sharing its platform with the Lancia Kappa and Fiat Chroma (Type 4 platform). The 2.5 V6 'Busso' engine was a hallmark of this generation.
Facelift Information:
The Alfa Romeo 166 underwent a facelift in 2003, which included revised styling, interior upgrades, and powertrain enhancements. This manual likely covers pre-facelift and post-facelift models within the specified years.
Production Locations:
Primarily manufactured in Italy.
Production Numbers:
Total production figures are not readily available but it was a key model in Alfa Romeo's lineup during its production run.
