Segment:
Compact Family Car (C-segment)
Target Audience:
Do-it-yourself mechanics and experienced technicians
Content Focus:
Empowering users to perform repairs and maintenance cost-effectively.
Instructional Style:
Step-by-step instructions with hundreds of photos and illustrations (as described).
Engine Systems:
Engine Mechanical, Fuel System, Ignition System, Lubrication System, Cooling System, Emission Control
Drivetrain Systems:
Transmission (Manual/Automatic), Clutch, Driveshafts, Differential
Chassis Systems:
Suspension (Front/Rear), Steering System, Braking System, Wheels and Tires
Electrical Systems:
Battery, Charging System, Starting System, Lighting, Instrumentation, Wiper/Washer System, Power Accessories, ECU/ECM (Engine Control Module)
Body And Trim:
Body Panels, Doors, Windows, Bumpers, Interior Trim
Maintenance:
Scheduled Maintenance, Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Fluid Checks and Top-ups, Spark Plug Replacement, Belt Inspections
Repair:
Engine Overhaul, Transmission Rebuild, Brake System Repair, Suspension Component Replacement, Electrical Component Diagnosis and Repair, Fuel System Component Replacement
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting Guides, Symptom-based Diagnosis, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) (if applicable via OBD-II or proprietary diagnostics)
Rebuilding:
Detailed disassembly and reassembly instructions for major components
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering from basic maintenance to complete rebuilds and diagnostics.
Available Engine Options:
Likely includes various 4-cylinder FIRE (Fully Integrated Robotized Engine) and possibly 5-cylinder engines. Specifics would depend on the market and trim.
Common Engines:
1.2L FIRE (182A5000), 1.4L FIRE (182A3000), 1.6L 16V (182A4000), 2.0L 16V (2.0 TS, 155 hp - 182A1000).
Power Output Range:
Approximately 75 hp to 155 hp depending on the engine variant.
Torque Range:
Approximately 110 Nm to 180 Nm depending on the engine variant.
Fuel Delivery:
Likely multi-point fuel injection (MPI) or single-point injection (SPI) on lower end models.
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Petrol (Gasoline)
ECU Type:
Bosch Motronic or similar, depending on engine variant.
Euro Ncap Rating:
Not explicitly available for this early generation; European safety standards of the time would apply.
Braking System Front:
Ventilated Disc Brakes (typically 257mm or 284mm)
Braking System Rear:
Solid Disc Brakes (typically 240mm)
ABS:
Optional on lower trims, standard on higher trims (e.g., 2.0 TS).
Airbags:
Driver's airbag standard, passenger airbag optional on most trims.
Seatbelts:
Front pre-tensioned seatbelts.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 15,000 km or 1 year, whichever comes first.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Recommended every 60,000 - 80,000 km or 4-5 years, especially for 16V engines.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 40,000 - 60,000 km depending on spark plug type (standard or long-life).
Engine Oil Type:
Refer to manual; likely API SG/SH or ACEA A2/A3 rated oils, viscosity 10W-40 or 15W-40, or 5W-40 for colder climates. (Specific grades like Selenia K Pure Energy recommended by Fiat)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol based antifreeze with corrosion inhibitors. Typically a 50/50 mix with demineralized water.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Transmission Fluid Type:
Refer to manual; typically GL-4 rated gear oil for manual transmissions.
Common Problems:
Potential for minor electrical gremlins, wear on suspension components (bushings, ball joints), clutch wear, and occasional rust formation in certain climates.
Engine Specific Issues:
Timing belt failure on non-interference engines can cause valve damage; interference engines are more critical. Oil leaks from valve cover gaskets.
Manufacturer:
Fiat Automobiles S.p.A.
Heritage Focus:
Italian automotive manufacturer with a long history of producing popular and innovative compact cars.
Platform:
Based on the Fiat Tipo platform.
Design Philosophy:
Designed by Chris Bangle, aiming for a modern, sporty, and aerodynamic aesthetic.
Manufacturing Location:
Primarily Italy (e.g., Cassino, Termini Imerese).
Production Duration:
1995 - 2000 (for this generation)
European Car Of The Year:
While the Bravo itself didn't win, it was part of Fiat's strong showing in European Car of the Year, with its predecessor, the Fiat Tipo, winning in 1989 and the contemporary Fiat Punto winning in 1995.
