🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Alfa Romeo

Model:

145/146

Chassis Codes:

930A (145), 930B (146)

👋 Introduction

Target Audience:

DIY enthusiasts, independent workshops, and Alfa Romeo owners seeking detailed repair and maintenance information.

Manual Competitors:

Haynes, Chilton (though less common for European marques), and unofficial online forums/resources. Factory manuals offer superior accuracy and detail.

Unique Selling Points:

Authoritative Alfa Romeo factory data, comprehensive system coverage, detailed diagrams, and precise specifications crucial for maintaining the unique character of these Italian cars.

📋 Manual Details

Applicable Years:

1994-2001

Trim Levels Covered:

All trim levels including Base, Junior, Sport, Ti, Cloverleaf (Quadrifoglio Verde)

Page Count:

Approximately 800+ pages (estimated for comprehensive coverage)

Manual Type:

Factory Service Manual / Workshop Manual

Language:

English (with potential for other European languages depending on specific print run)

Format:

Printed Book (likely wire-bound or perfect bound)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine overhaul, component removal/installation, cylinder head, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, timing belt/chain, lubrication system, cooling system

Engine Management:

Fuel injection systems (Bosch Motronic), ignition systems, emission control systems, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), sensor identification and testing

Transmission Manual:

Clutch system, gearbox overhaul, gear selection, driveshafts, differential, maintenance and repair

Transmission Automatic:

If applicable, automatic transmission identification, maintenance, and basic troubleshooting (less common for this model)

Brakes:

Hydraulic system, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), brake pads, rotors, calipers, bleeding procedure, parking brake

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, bushings, wheel alignment procedures

Steering:

Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, maintenance and repair

Electrical System:

Battery, alternator, starter motor, lighting systems, horn, power windows, central locking, fuse box diagrams, relay locations, wiring diagrams

Body And Chassis:

Body panel removal/installation, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, interior trim, rust prevention and repair, structural integrity

Heating Ventilation And Air Conditioning HVAC:

HVAC system components, refrigerant handling, blower motor, heater core, A/C compressor, diagnosis and repair

Interior Features:

Seats, dashboard, instrument cluster, airbags (SRS - Supplemental Restraint System) removal/installation and safety precautions

Preventative Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement

Troubleshooting Guides:

Diagnostic flowcharts for common problems (e.g., starting issues, poor performance, electrical faults)

Repair Procedures:

Step-by-step instructions with torque specifications for a wide range of repairs

Component Rebuilds:

Detailed instructions for rebuilding major components like engines and transmissions

Electrical Diagnostics:

Wiring diagrams, component testing procedures, multimeter usage

Depth Of Coverage:

Comprehensive from basic maintenance to advanced engine and transmission overhauls, including detailed diagnostics

Diagnostic Capabilities:

Covers diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) for engine management and ABS systems, with guidance on interpreting sensor data

Special Tools:

Lists and describes special tools required for specific procedures (e.g., timing tools, engine lifting equipment)

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format Quality:

N/A (Printed Book)

Paper Type:

Durable, high-quality paper designed for workshop environments, often with coated pages to resist oil and dirt.

Printing Method:

Professional offset printing for clarity and longevity.

Binding Type:

Typically wire-O or perfect bound for durability and ease of use (lying flat).

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Codes:

AR372.04 (1.4), AR371.02 (1.6), AR372.02 (1.8 Twin Spark), AR372.03 (2.0 Twin Spark), AR371.03 (1.9 TD - Turbo Diesel), AR370.01 (2.4 TD - Turbo Diesel)

1.8 Twin Spark Hp:

140 hp (103 kW)

1.8 Twin Spark Torque:

164 Nm (121 lb-ft) at 4300 rpm

2.0 Twin Spark Hp:

150 hp (110 kW)

2.0 Twin Spark Torque:

187 Nm (138 lb-ft) at 4000 rpm

Fuel Injection Type:

Bosch Motronic electronic fuel injection (MPI or direct injection depending on variant)

Recommended Fuel:

Unleaded gasoline (RON 95 or higher for Twin Spark engines)

Twin Spark Technology:

Unique twin spark plug per cylinder arrangement for improved combustion efficiency and reduced emissions.

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

5-speed manual transmission

Optional Transmission:

Some models may have offered a 4-speed automatic transmission (less common)

Clutch Type:

Hydraulically operated single dry plate clutch

📐 Dimensions

Length 145:

Approx. 4200 mm (165.4 in)

Width 145:

Approx. 1700 mm (66.9 in)

Height 145:

Approx. 1420 mm (55.9 in)

Wheelbase 145:

Approx. 2520 mm (99.2 in)

Length 146:

Approx. 4280 mm (168.5 in)

Width 146:

Approx. 1700 mm (66.9 in)

Height 146:

Approx. 1420 mm (55.9 in)

Wheelbase 146:

Approx. 2520 mm (99.2 in)

Cargo Volume 145:

Approx. 360 liters (12.7 cu ft)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1150-1300 kg (2535-2866 lbs) depending on engine and equipment

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

4x98

Wheel Offset Et:

ET 38-42 (typical)

🛡️ Safety Features

Euro Ncap Rating:

Not extensively tested by Euro NCAP in its early years; later models likely fall into the 2-3 star range based on period standards.

ABS:

Available on higher trim levels and later models.

Airbags:

Driver airbag standard; passenger airbag optional or standard on later models.

Seatbelts:

Pre-tensioning seatbelts for front occupants.

Body Structure:

Reinforced safety cell with crumple zones.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory fitted radio/cassette or CD player, often with speaker upgrades available on higher trims.

ABS Availability:

ABS was an option or standard on later models, improving braking control.

Central Locking:

Standard on most models, with remote key fob operation becoming common.

Climate Control:

Manual air conditioning was an option on many models.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

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

Timing Belt Replacement:

Crucial for Twin Spark engines: typically every 60,000-80,000 km (37,000-50,000 miles) or 4-5 years. Failure can cause catastrophic engine damage.

Spark Plug Replacement:

For Twin Spark engines, replacement of all 8 spark plugs is recommended at major service intervals (e.g., 40,000-60,000 km).

Engine Oil Type:

API SG/SH or ACEA A2/A3 specifications. Viscosity typically 10W-40 or 5W-40, depending on climate and engine type. Consult manual for exact specs.

Coolant Type:

Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze, mixed with distilled water in a 50/50 ratio. Paraflu UP or equivalent. Refer to manual for specific OAT/HOAT compatibility.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 4 brake fluid.

Transmission Oil Type:

GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil (viscosity typically 75W-90 or 80W-90). Consult manual for specific application.

Twin Spark Oil Consumption:

Twin Spark engines can be prone to higher oil consumption, especially with age and mileage. Regular checks are vital.

Rust Prone Areas:

Wheel arches, sills, rear valence, and door bottoms can be susceptible to rust, particularly in climates with road salt. Rust prevention and treatment are important.

Electrical Gremlins:

Older Italian cars can sometimes exhibit minor electrical issues related to wiring harness degradation or earth point corrosion. This manual will aid in diagnosing such faults.

Suspension Wear:

Wear in bushings and ball joints can lead to knocking noises and imprecise handling.

📚 Vehicle History

Alfa Romeo Legacy:

Alfa Romeo, an Italian manufacturer with a rich racing and sporting heritage dating back to 1910, known for its passion for engineering and design.

145 Introduction:

Introduced in 1994 as a replacement for the Alfa Romeo 33, marking a shift to a more modern hatchback design. Based on the Fiat Tipo platform.

146 Introduction:

Introduced in 1995 as the saloon (sedan) version of the 145, sharing the same platform and mechanicals but with a more traditional boot.

Facelifts:

Both models received facelifts in 1997 and 1999, with styling updates and improved interior appointments.

Production Years:

1994-2001

Manufacturing Plant:

Pomigliano d'Arco, Italy

Total Production:

Combined production figures for 145 and 146 are estimated in the range of 300,000 - 400,000 units.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Contemporary Reviews:

The 145/146 were generally praised for their styling, handling, and the unique character of the Twin Spark engines, though perceived build quality and reliability were often cited as areas for improvement compared to German rivals.