Market Position:
The Alfa Romeo 166 was positioned as a premium executive sedan, competing with established German and French rivals like BMW 5 Series, Mercedes-Benz E-Class, and Audi A6. It emphasized stylish Italian design, driving dynamics, and luxurious appointments.
Competitive Analysis:
The 166 offered a distinct alternative to its more conservative competitors, often praised for its distinctive styling and engaging driving experience, particularly with the V6 engines. However, it sometimes faced challenges regarding perceived reliability and residual values compared to German marques.
Key Features Of Manual:
Comprehensive coverage, multi-language support, dealer-level diagnostic information, detailed illustrations, and wiring schematics make this manual an invaluable resource for maintaining and repairing the Alfa Romeo 166.
Key Features Of Vehicle:
Renowned for its elegant Pininfarina-designed exterior, sophisticated interior, and the sonorous Alfa Romeo V6 engines. It offered advanced features for its time, including adaptive suspension (optional) and advanced safety systems.
Model Variants Covered:
All Alfa Romeo 166 models from 1998 to 2008, including Automatic and Manual Transmission variants.
Engine Variants Covered:
2.0L TS 16v, 2.0L TB V6 24v, 2.5L V6 24v, 3.0L V6 24v, 3.2L V6 24v (Petrol); 2.4L JTD 10v, 2.4L JTD M-JET 20V (Diesel)
Page Count:
Not specified, but described as highly detailed with hundreds of illustrations.
Manual Type:
Dealer Software / Workshop Service Manual
Languages:
English, French, German, Italian, Spanish, Dutch, Polish, Portuguese
Indexing:
Fully Indexed for Easy Navigation
Computer Requirements:
Compatible with all Windows computers (Windows 10, 8.1, 8, 7, Vista 32/64, XP, ME, 98, NT, 2000)
Delivery Method:
Instant Download
Systems Covered:
General Information, Maintenance, Fuel System, Engine Mechanical, Cooling System, Lubrication, Transmission, Brake System, Suspensions, Electrical System, Wiring Diagrams, Technical Diagnostics, Body & Chassis, Safety Systems, and more.
Repair Procedures:
Complete step-by-step instructions for service and repair, based on complete disassembly of the machine. Includes troubleshooting and diagnostics.
Technical Depth:
Highly detailed, suitable for both do-it-yourselfers and experienced mechanics. Covers advanced diagnostics and repair procedures equivalent to dealer-level service.
Diagrams Included:
Wiring schematics and diagrams provided for comprehensive electrical system servicing.
Illustrations Included:
Hundreds of illustrations to guide the reader through each service and repair procedure.
Printability:
All pages are printable for convenient field use.
File Format:
ISO Image file, allowing burning to CDRom or direct computer viewing.
Print Quality:
High-quality digital reproduction with clear text and imagery, suitable for professional printing.
Binding Type:
N/A (Digital format)
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital format)
Software Type:
Standalone application for viewing and managing the manual data.
Engine Options:
Petrol: 2.0L TS 16v, 2.0L TB V6 24v, 2.5L V6 24v, 3.0L V6 24v, 3.2L V6 24v; Diesel: 2.4L JTD 10v, 2.4L JTD M-JET 20V
Engine Performance General:
V6 engines (Busso V6) are particularly celebrated for their performance and distinctive exhaust note. Power outputs varied significantly across the range, from the Twin Spark models to the top-tier 3.2L V6.
Fuel System Types:
Multi-point Fuel Injection for petrol engines; Common Rail Direct Injection (JTD and M-JET) for diesel engines.
Engine Mechanical Coverage:
Detailed coverage of engine disassembly, assembly, timing belt replacement (where applicable), piston and cylinder work, valve train, and lubrication systems.
Cooling System Coverage:
Includes radiator, coolant hoses, thermostat, water pump, and fan system diagnostics and replacement procedures.
Lubrication Coverage:
Information on oil pump, oil filter, oil pressure, and lubrication system maintenance and repair.
Transmission Types:
Available with both Manual and Automatic transmissions across various engine options.
Optional Transmission Features:
Automatic transmissions often featured a 'Sport' mode for more aggressive shifting.
Transmission Coverage:
Includes detailed procedures for clutch replacement, gearbox overhaul, automatic transmission servicing (fluid changes, filter replacement), and differential maintenance.
Transmission Fluid Type:
Specific ATF (Automatic Transmission Fluid) types are crucial for automatic gearboxes; Manual transmission fluid (e.g., API GL-4 or GL-5) specifications will be detailed.
Exterior Dimensions General:
The Alfa Romeo 166 is a large executive sedan, characterized by its flowing lines and sporty stance. Exact dimensions (length, width, height) would be available in the manual.
Curb Weight Range:
Curb weights vary by engine and specification, typically ranging from approximately 1500 kg to over 1700 kg.
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
Commonly 5x108 bolt pattern for alloy wheels, with various offset and rim diameter options depending on trim and year.
Tire Size Options:
A range of tire sizes, from 205/60 R16 to 225/40 R18, depending on model and wheel choice.
Safety Ratings General:
Euro NCAP crash test results for the 166 were generally respectable for its era, though specific scores would be found within the manual or supplementary documentation.
Active Safety Features:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), Traction Control System (TCS), and optional Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) are typically included.
Passive Safety Features:
Front and side airbags for driver and front passenger, and potentially rear side airbags on higher trims. Strong body structure designed for occupant protection.
Safety Systems Coverage:
Detailed troubleshooting and repair of airbags, seatbelt pre-tensioners, ABS modules, and VDC/TCS sensors and components.
Infotainment Features:
The 166 offered an advanced infotainment system for its time, often including a Clarion or Blaupunkt head unit with CD player, radio, and optional navigation system. Specific repair and troubleshooting for these units will be in the manual.
Driver Assistance Systems:
Features such as cruise control, parking sensors (rear), and automatic climate control were available on higher trims.
Connectivity Features:
Early Bluetooth hands-free phone systems were optional on some models. The manual will cover their integration and troubleshooting.
Electrical System Coverage:
Comprehensive coverage of the entire electrical system, including the Battery, Alternator, Starter Motor, Lighting, Instrument Panel, ECUs, and all sensor and actuator circuits, aided by detailed wiring diagrams.
Recommended Service Intervals:
Specific service intervals for oil changes, filter replacements, timing belt checks/replacement, and other scheduled maintenance are provided in detail within the manual. These typically vary by engine and driving conditions, often around 15,000-20,000 km for oil changes and 60,000-100,000 km for timing belts on petrol engines.
Engine Oil Specifications:
The manual will specify exact engine oil viscosity grades (e.g., 10W-40, 5W-30) and API/ACEA specifications required for each engine variant, adhering to Fiat/Alfa Romeo standards (e.g., Fiat 9.55535-G2 or Fiat 9.55535-H2).
Coolant Specifications:
Details on the type of coolant (e.g., Paraflu UP, a long-life OAT coolant) and the correct antifreeze/water mixture ratio will be provided.
Brake Fluid Specifications:
Specifies DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid requirements and recommended change intervals.
Common Issues Diesel:
Potential issues with the JTD engines include swirl flap actuators, glow plug failure, and EGR valve clogging. Turbocharger issues can also arise with high mileage.
Common Issues Petrol V6:
The iconic Busso V6 engines, while desirable, are known for potential issues such as timing belt tensioner failure (critical to replace on schedule), thermostat housing leaks, and exhaust manifold gasket failures. Early models might also experience minor electrical gremlins.
Common Issues General:
Electrical issues, particularly with window regulators, central locking, and sensor failures, can occur. Suspension components like ball joints and bushes may also require attention due to wear.
Oil Filter Part Numbers:
Specific OEM and aftermarket oil filter part numbers for each engine variant will be listed, e.g., Bosch 0986452064 or Purflux LS250.
Air Filter Part Numbers:
Specific OEM and aftermarket air filter part numbers will be available, e.g., Mann-Filter C37150.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Extensive details on timing belt replacement procedures, including necessary tools, torque specifications, and component alignment, crucial for petrol engines.
Brand Heritage:
Alfa Romeo boasts a rich history of motorsport and sporting car production dating back to 1910, known for its passion, performance, and distinctive Italian style.
Model Evolution:
The 166 succeeded the Alfa Romeo 164 and was produced from 1998 to 2007. It represented Alfa Romeo's commitment to the executive sedan segment, featuring a more modern platform and technology.
Production Years:
1998-2007
Production Locations:
Primarily manufactured in Italy.
Automotive Journalism Awards:
While specific awards for the 166 itself might be scarce, Alfa Romeo vehicles are consistently recognized for their design, driving dynamics, and passion for the brand by automotive journalists worldwide.
Reliability Ratings:
Reliability ratings varied, with some early models facing more challenges than later revisions. The manual is essential for addressing and rectifying common wear-and-tear items and potential issues.
Manufacturer Certifications:
The manual's origin as dealer software implies it meets manufacturer standards for repair and maintenance procedures.
