Segment Positioning:
The Alfa Romeo 155 was a compact executive car that aimed to blend Alfa Romeo's traditional sporty characteristics with increased practicality and mainstream appeal, competing with vehicles like the BMW 3 Series and Mercedes-Benz C-Class.
Competitors:
BMW 3 Series (E36), Mercedes-Benz C-Class (W202), Audi 80/A4 (B5), Volvo S40/V40.
Design Philosophy:
A blend of sporty handling, Italian styling, and a more accessible ownership experience compared to previous Alfa Romeo models.
Manual Value Proposition:
Empowers owners to perform maintenance and repairs independently, saving costs and ensuring quality work with detailed instructions.
Coverage Summary:
Comprehensive service, repair, and maintenance for the 1996 Alfa Romeo 155.
Estimated Page Count:
Detailed page count not specified, but comprehensive coverage suggests 500+ pages.
Manual Type:
Service and Repair Manual
Engine:
Engine Service/Repair, Engine Control System, Fuel Injection/Fuel System, Cooling System, Emission System
Drivetrain:
Transmission Service/Repair, Axle
Chassis:
Suspension, Steering, Brake System, Chassis/Body
Electrical:
Electrical System, Wiring Diagram
Restraint System:
Restraint System (Airbags, Seatbelts)
Maintenance:
General Maintenance, Periodic Lubrication
Troubleshooting:
Troubleshooting
Repair Rebuild:
Disassembly, Reassembly, Repair, Service, Refurbish, Renovate, Mend, Fix
Engine Rebuild:
Detailed procedures for engine disassembly, overhaul, and reassembly, including cylinder head, pistons, crankshaft, and valvetrain.
Transmission Overhaul:
Procedures for manual and automatic transmission removal, disassembly, inspection, repair, and reinstallation.
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive; covers everything from basic maintenance and troubleshooting to in-depth engine and transmission repair, and electrical diagnostics.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Includes methods for diagnosing engine performance issues, electrical faults, and mechanical problems.
Engine Options 1996:
Likely includes 1.8L (TS), 2.0L (TS), and potentially 2.5L V6 (QV) variants. The Twin Spark (TS) engines are most common.
Engine Type:
Inline-4 (Twin Spark), V6
Engine Layout:
Transverse Front-Engine, Front-Wheel Drive (or All-Wheel Drive for Q4 variants)
Horsepower Range:
Approximately 129 hp (1.8 TS) to 190 hp (2.5 V6 QV), with higher outputs for performance variants like the 'Veloce'.
Torque Range:
Varied by engine, e.g., around 170 Nm for the 2.0 TS.
Fuel Injection:
Bosch Motronic electronic fuel injection
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Petrol (Gasoline)
Length:
Approx. 4400 mm (173.2 in)
Width:
Approx. 1700 mm (66.9 in)
Height:
Approx. 1420 mm (55.9 in)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1300-1400 kg (2866-3086 lbs) depending on engine and configuration.
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2600 mm (102.4 in)
Crash Test Performance:
Information from 1996 is limited; however, generally, European cars of this era offered moderate protection. Euro NCAP testing was in its infancy.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) often standard or optional.
Traction Control:
Traction Control System (ASR) available on some models, especially Q4.
Airbags:
Driver's airbag typically standard; passenger airbag optional or standard on later/higher trims.
Seatbelts:
Pre-tensioned front seatbelts.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 10,000-15,000 km (6,000-9,000 miles) or 12 months, whichever comes first, depending on driving conditions.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Crucial for Twin Spark engines. Typically every 60,000-80,000 km (37,000-50,000 miles) or 5 years. Failure can be catastrophic.
Spark Plug Replacement:
For Twin Spark engines, regular replacement is key. Check manual for specific intervals, often related to miles/years.
Engine Oil Viscosity:
Commonly SAE 10W-40 or 10W-50, but check specific engine requirements. Always use quality synthetic or semi-synthetic oil.
Coolant:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze/coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Rust Corrosion:
Common on wheel arches, sills, and door bottoms due to age and materials used in that era.
Twin Spark Engine Issues:
Potential for valve stem seal wear, oil consumption, and critical timing belt failure if not maintained. Check for oil leaks from the cam cover and rear main seal.
Electrical Gremlins:
Older Alfas can be prone to electrical issues, particularly with wiring harnesses, sensors, and ECUs, often exacerbated by corrosion.
Suspension Wear:
Bushings, ball joints, and shock absorbers can wear over time, affecting ride and handling.
Gearbox Issues:
Manual gearboxes are generally robust, but clutch wear is a service item. Automatic transmissions may require regular fluid changes.
Brand Identity:
Alfa Romeo is renowned for its sporting heritage, distinctive Italian design, and engaging driving dynamics.
Model Introduction:
The Alfa Romeo 155 replaced the 75 (Milano) and was produced from 1992 to 1997. The 1996 model year represents a later iteration, potentially with minor updates.
Facelift:
The 155 received a significant facelift in 1995, introducing revised styling (especially front and rear lights, bumpers, and grille) that would apply to the 1996 models.
Production Period:
1992-1997
Manufacturing Location:
Italy (Primarily Pomigliano d'Arco)
