Vehicle Segment:
Compact Executive/Small Family Car
Competitors:
Volkswagen Golf, Ford Focus, BMW 1 Series, Audi A3, Opel Astra
Design Philosophy:
Sporty styling, engaging driving dynamics, premium interior feel for its segment
Manual Value Proposition:
Inexpensive way to maintain and repair vehicle, comprehensive factory-level data
Engine:
Engine Service/Repair, Fuel Injection, Fuel System, Cooling System, Engine Control System, Emission System
Drivetrain:
Transmission Service/Repair, Differential/Drive, Axle
Chassis:
Brake System, Suspension, Steering, Chassis/Body
Electrical And HVAC:
Wiring Diagram, Electrical System, Heater/Air Conditioning
Interior And Safety:
Restraint System, Interior
Maintenance:
General Maintenance, Periodic Lubrication
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting, Electrical System Diagnostics
Repair:
Step-by-step repair procedures for all covered systems, complete disassembly and reassembly guidance
Depth:
Full factory level detail suitable for both DIY and professional mechanics
Engine Options 2003:
1.9 JTD (Diesel), 1.6 TS (Twin Spark Petrol), 2.0 TS (Twin Spark Petrol), 3.2 GTA (V6 Busso Petrol - performance variant)
1.6 Ts Hp:
105 PS (103 bhp; 77 kW)
2.0 Ts Hp:
150 PS (148 bhp; 110 kW)
1.9 Jtd Hp:
115 PS (113 bhp; 85 kW) or 120 PS (118 bhp; 88 kW) depending on version
3.2 Gta Hp:
250 PS (247 bhp; 184 kW)
Injection Type:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI) for TS engines, Common Rail Direct Injection (CRDI) for JTD engines
ECU Systems:
Bosch Motronic or similar, specific systems for petrol and diesel variants
Twin Spark Ignition:
Twin spark ignition system for all Twin Spark engines (two spark plugs per cylinder) for improved combustion efficiency
Transmission Options:
5-speed Manual, 6-speed Manual (for some variants)
Automatic Transmission:
Optional Q-System (semi-automatic) or Selespeed (sequential manual gearbox) on certain petrol models
Gearbox Oil Spec:
Refer to manual for specific API GL-4 or GL-5 specifications and viscosity grades (e.g., 75W-90)
Euro Ncap Score:
4 out of 5 stars (for the 2002 model, representative for 2003)
Braking System:
ABS with EBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution), Brake Assist (BA)
Stability Control:
Optional VDC (Vehicle Dynamic Control) - similar to ESP
Airbags:
Driver, Passenger, Side Airbags (standard/optional depending on trim), Window Airbags
Seatbelts:
Pretensioner seatbelts with load limiters
Chassis Structure:
High-strength steel safety cell, crumple zones
Audio System:
Factory fitted radio/CD player with optional CD changer, typically with steering wheel controls on higher trims.
Climate Control:
Manual or optional automatic climate control (dual-zone on some models)
Cruise Control:
Available on some models and trims.
Bluetooth:
Not typically factory fitted on 2003 models; aftermarket solutions would be required.
Keyless Entry:
Available on higher trim levels.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 15,000 km or 1 year (whichever comes first), consult manual for specific engine and oil type.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Crucial for Twin Spark engines. Typically around 100,000-120,000 km or 5-6 years. The manual will provide the exact interval and procedure.
Other Scheduled Maintenance:
Includes spark plug replacement (Twin Spark engines have 8 spark plugs), air filter, cabin filter, brake fluid, coolant, transmission fluid checks/changes.
Engine Oil Type:
Selenia Star Pure Energy 5W-40 or equivalent API SN, ACEA C3/C2 is commonly recommended for modern formulations, but manual will specify for 2003 models. Check viscosity based on climate.
Coolant Type:
Paraflu UP (Parafrost UP) or equivalent IAT (Inorganic Additive Technology) antifreeze with ethylene glycol base, typically pink/red in colour.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 or DOT 4 Plus
Common Electrical Faults:
Can include issues with window regulators, central locking, dashboard warning lights, and sensor failures. The manual's electrical section and troubleshooting guide are vital.
Twin Spark Engine Wear:
Wear on camshafts and valve guides is a known concern for high-mileage Twin Spark engines. Proper maintenance and oil changes are critical.
Jtd Engine Durability:
Generally considered robust, but common issues can include EGR valve problems, turbocharger issues, and injector problems if not maintained.
Suspension Wear:
Components like bushings, ball joints, and drop links can wear over time, especially on older vehicles. The manual will guide replacement procedures.
Brand Focus:
Alfa Romeo is renowned for its sporty heritage, distinctive Italian design, and engaging driving characteristics.
Platform Basis:
Based on the Fiat Group Compact platform, shared with Fiat Stilo and Lancia Musa.
Facelift Timing:
A significant facelift occurred in 2004, so the 2003 model represents the pre-facelift version.
Production Period:
2000-2010
Manufacturing Location:
Pomigliano d'Arco, Italy
