🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Alfa Romeo

Model:

156

Year:

2000

Platform:

Tipo 4 Platform (shared with Fiat Bravo/Brava, Lancia Dedra)

Generation Designation:

First Generation (932)

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The Alfa Romeo 156 was positioned as a sporty and stylish compact executive car, competing with German rivals like the BMW 3 Series and Audi A4.

Competitors:

BMW 3 Series (E46), Audi A4 (B5), Mercedes-Benz C-Class (W202).

Design Philosophy:

Embodied Alfa Romeo's renowned 'Bella Figura' design language, featuring a distinctive V Scudetto grille and sleek, flowing lines.

Driving Dynamics:

Renowned for sharp handling and engaging driving experience, thanks to advanced suspension and chassis tuning.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Full Factory Service Repair

Additional Coverage:

Maintenance, Troubleshooting, Diagnostics, Repair, Wiring Diagrams, Electrical Systems

Estimated Page Count:

Hundreds (specific count not provided, but described as 'COMPLETE' and 'complete repair procedures')

Type:

Factory Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF (Downloadable)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Comprehensive engine service and repair, including engine control system, fuel injection, cooling system, emission system.

Transmission:

Transmission service and repair, including differential and drive axle components.

Brakes:

Detailed brake system service and repair procedures.

Electrical:

Complete electrical system coverage, including detailed wiring diagrams and troubleshooting.

Suspension Steering:

Suspension system and steering system service and repair.

Chassis Body:

Chassis and bodywork repair, including interior and restraint systems.

HVAC:

Heater and air conditioning system service.

Maintenance:

General maintenance, periodic lubrication, fluid specifications.

Troubleshooting:

Advanced troubleshooting guide for diagnosing and correcting problems.

Repair:

Step-by-step repair procedures for all covered systems.

Diagnostics:

Diagnostic procedures for identifying faults.

Depth:

Complete, factory-level detail covering everything from basic maintenance to full rebuilds and restoration.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format:

ISO File (downloaded content is in PDF)

Compatibility:

Windows and Mac compatible PDF

Printability:

Printable without restriction, high resolution

Binding:

Digital (printable, no physical binding)

Paper:

N/A (digital format, printable on any paper)

Navigation:

Numbered table of contents, search function for easy information retrieval.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options 2000 Model Year:

Likely includes the Twin Spark 4-cylinder engines (e.g., 1.8L, 2.0L) and potentially the V6 Busso engine (e.g., 2.5L, 3.0L in GTA variants, though the manual specifically mentions '2000'). The manual coverage implies the 2.0L Twin Spark is a primary focus.

2.0 Twin Spark Performance Approx:

Horsepower: ~155 PS (114 kW), Torque: ~187 Nm (138 lb-ft). (Specifics depend on exact variant, e.g., TS, JTS).

Injection Type:

Bosch Motronic or similar electronic fuel injection, often multi-point.

Cylinder Head Material:

Aluminum alloy.

Engine Block Material:

Cast iron (Twin Spark) or Aluminum alloy (V6).

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

5-speed manual transmission.

Optional Transmission:

Q-System 4-speed automatic transmission (with Sportronic option).

Clutch Type:

Hydraulically operated single dry plate clutch.

Manual Gear Ratios:

Specific ratios vary by engine, but typically around 3.93:1 for 1st, 2.37:1 for 2nd, 1.52:1 for 3rd, 1.03:1 for 4th, 0.81:1 for 5th (final drive ratio around 3.7:1 for 2.0 TS).

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 4,480 mm (176.4 in).

Width:

Approx. 1,740 mm (68.5 in).

Height:

Approx. 1,410 mm (55.5 in).

Curb Weight Approx:

Approx. 1,350 - 1,450 kg (2,976 - 3,197 lbs) depending on engine and equipment.

Luggage Capacity Approx:

Approx. 380 liters (13.4 cu ft).

🛡️ Safety Features

Euro Ncap Rating:

Euro NCAP: 4 stars (for models tested circa 2000).

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD).

Traction Control:

Optional Traction Control System (ASR).

Airbags:

Driver and front passenger airbags standard; side airbags available as an option.

Seatbelts:

Pyrotechnic pre-tensioners for front seatbelts.

Chassis Safety:

Designed with a rigid safety cell and crumple zones.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory fitted Clarion or Blaupunkt radios with CD/Cassette players, often with steering wheel controls on higher trims.

Navigation:

Optional integrated navigation system available on some higher-spec models.

Cruise Control:

Available as an option on many models.

Phone Integration:

Optional Bluetooth hands-free kits were available for some models.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 10,000-15,000 km (6,000-9,000 miles) or 12 months, whichever comes first.

Timing Belt Replacement:

Crucial for Twin Spark engines. Recommended every 60,000-100,000 km (37,000-62,000 miles) or 5-7 years, due to the risk of catastrophic engine damage if it fails. The manual will provide precise intervals and procedures.

Engine Oil Specification:

Likely API SL/CF or ACEA A3/B3, SAE 10W-40 or 15W-40 for Twin Spark, potentially synthetic 5W-40 or 10W-40 for V6. Manual will specify exact grade and capacity.

Coolant Specification:

Glycol-based antifreeze with corrosion inhibitors, typically Paraflu UP or equivalent, mixed 50/50 with distilled water. Capacity approx. 7-8 liters for 2.0 TS.

Brake Fluid Specification:

DOT 4 brake fluid.

Transmission Fluid Manual:

GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90. Capacity approx. 2.5 liters.

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

Dexron III or equivalent ATF. Capacity approx. 6-7 liters.

Rust Corrosion:

Common on older Italian cars, particularly wheel arches, sills, and boot lid edges. Early detection and treatment are crucial.

Electrical Gremlins:

Can suffer from minor electrical issues due to wiring loom complexity and age, often related to sensors or switches. The wiring diagrams in this manual are invaluable for diagnosis.

Suspension Components:

Front wishbone bushes and drop links can wear, leading to knocking noises and imprecise handling. The manual details replacement procedures.

Air Con System:

Compressor clutch failures or leaks in the refrigerant system can affect AC performance.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Legacy:

Alfa Romeo boasts a rich motorsport heritage dating back to 1910, known for producing driver-focused cars with sporting pedigree and distinctive Italian design.

156 Launch Year:

Launched in 1997.

156 Facelift:

Received a significant facelift in 2003 (known as the 156 FL), which included exterior styling revisions and interior updates.

Engines Offered:

Initially offered with 1.6L, 1.8L, 2.0L Twin Spark petrol engines and a 2.4L JTD turbodiesel. Later introduced the 2.0 JTS direct-injection petrol engine and V6 variants (2.5L and 3.2L GTA).

Production Period:

1997 - 2007.

Assembly Plant:

Pomigliano d'Arco, Naples, Italy.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

European Car Of The Year:

Named 'European Car of the Year' in 1998, a significant achievement highlighting its innovative design and driving appeal.

Auto Motor Und Sport Awards:

Frequently featured in automotive magazine 'Best Cars' polls, winning categories for design and driving pleasure.