Production Years Covered:
1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003
Chassis Codes:
Primarily derived from the Fiat Bravo/Brava platform, specific Marea codes may exist for variations.
Market Position:
The Fiat Marea and Marea Weekend were positioned as practical, spacious, and value-oriented compact cars and wagons in their respective markets, often competing with models from Volkswagen, Ford, and Opel/Vauxhall.
Competitive Analysis:
Competed in a crowded segment, offering a blend of Italian styling and practicality. Success varied by region, with strong showings in Southern Europe. This manual provides the essential technical data for maintaining and repairing these vehicles, often found in independent workshops and by DIY enthusiasts.
Key Features:
This manual is a comprehensive, vehicle-specific resource, identical to those used by dealership technicians. Its detailed coverage of all models and engines, coupled with numerous illustrations and diagrams, makes it invaluable for accurate diagnosis and repair. The digital format offers flexibility for printing specific sections.
Engine Overhaul:
Comprehensive engine overhaul and rebuilding procedures.
Brakes:
Detailed brake system servicing, repair, and diagnostic procedures.
Sunroof:
Service and repair information for the sunroof system.
Timing Belt:
Specific procedures for timing belt replacement and service.
Trouble Codes:
Coverage of diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and their interpretation.
Wiring Diagrams:
Complete and detailed wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems.
Troubleshooting Diagnostics:
In-depth troubleshooting guides and diagnostic procedures.
Computer Diagnostics:
Computer diagnostic trouble tree charts and diagnostic codes.
Engine Performance:
Detailed engine performance tuning and troubleshooting.
Suspension Steering:
Front-end alignment procedures, specifications, and suspension system service.
Transmission:
Transmission removal/installation and in-car servicing procedures.
Air Conditioning:
Air conditioning system service and refrigerant/lubricant capacities.
Drive Axles:
U-joint and CV-joint service procedures.
Electrical System:
Comprehensive coverage of the vehicle's electrical systems, including diagrams.
Body And Frame:
Implied coverage through repair procedures and illustrations.
Maintenance:
Factory maintenance schedules and charts, serpentine belt routings.
Repair:
Detailed step-by-step repair procedures for all covered systems.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting and diagnostics for various vehicle concerns.
Torque Specifications:
Complete torque specifications for all fasteners.
Firing Orders:
Engine firing orders are provided.
Technical Depth:
Factory-level, detailed information suitable for technicians and advanced DIYers. Covers everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls.
Illustrations:
Hundreds of illustrations and diagrams to aid in understanding and repair.
Vacuum Diagrams:
Includes vacuum diagrams for various engine and system configurations.
Primary Engine Options:
The Fiat Marea and Marea Weekend were offered with a range of petrol and diesel engines, including: 1.2 L (1242 cc) FIRE I4, 1.4 L (1372 cc) F.I.R.E. I4, 1.6 L (1581 cc) 16v I4, 1.8 L (1747 cc) 16v I4, 2.0 L (1995 cc) 20v I5 (in some markets), 1.9 L (1910 cc) TD/JTD I4 Diesel. The manual covers all these variants.
Performance Data:
Horsepower and torque figures vary significantly depending on the specific engine. The manual would provide detailed specifications for each engine variant, including power output, torque curves, and performance-related diagnostics.
Fuel System Type:
Primarily fuel-injected systems. Diesel engines utilize direct injection or common rail systems depending on the specific JTD variants. The manual details fuel system components, pressure tests, injector service, and fuel pump information.
Standard Transmission:
Typically a 5-speed manual transmission was standard across most engine variants.
Optional Transmission:
An automatic transmission was available on some petrol engine models.
Transmission Features:
Manual transmission clutch service, adjustment, and replacement. Automatic transmission diagnostics, fluid changes, and internal component service are covered. Specific gear ratios would be detailed in the manual.
Exterior Dimensions:
Specific dimensions (length, width, height) vary between the Marea sedan and Marea Weekend wagon. The manual likely includes detailed body measurements for repair and collision work.
Cargo Capacity:
The Marea Weekend offers significantly more cargo volume than the sedan. Detailed cargo dimensions and load capacities would be in the manual.
Curb Weight:
Curb weight varies by engine and body style. Specific weight figures and payload capacities are typically found in the manual.
Safety Ratings:
Euro NCAP ratings for the Marea platform generally reflected the safety standards of the mid-to-late 1990s. Specific ratings might vary by testing year and configuration.
Active Safety Features:
ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was commonly available, particularly on higher trims. Traction control may have been an option on some models. The manual covers the operation and diagnostics of these systems.
Passive Safety Features:
Front airbags were standard. Side airbags were optional or standard on later models. Seatbelt pre-tensioners and ISOFIX child seat anchor points were also incorporated. The manual provides details on airbag system diagnostics and component replacement.
Infotainment System:
Standard infotainment typically consisted of an AM/FM radio with CD player or cassette deck, with basic speaker systems. Higher trims may have offered upgraded audio. The manual would cover radio removal/installation and basic troubleshooting.
Driver Assistance Features:
Limited advanced driver assistance systems by modern standards. Features like ABS and potentially traction control were the primary electronic aids. The manual details their operation and maintenance.
Connectivity Options:
Basic connectivity was limited to power outlets for accessories. Remote keyless entry might have been available on higher trims. The manual covers the electrical systems related to these features.
Recommended Service Intervals:
The manual details factory-recommended service intervals for oil changes, filter replacements, spark plugs, timing belts (critical at specific mileages, e.g., 60,000-80,000 miles or 5 years), and other fluid services, varying by engine and driving conditions.
Engine Oil Specification:
Likely requires API SJ/SL or ACEA A3/B3/B4 rated synthetic or semi-synthetic engine oil, with viscosity grades such as 10W-40 or 5W-40 depending on climate. Specific Fiat specifications (e.g., Fiat 9.55535-G2) would be detailed.
Coolant Specification:
Typically requires a 50/50 mixture of antifreeze/coolant (based on ethylene glycol) and distilled water. Specific Fiat coolant specifications would be listed.
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid is generally specified. The manual will provide the exact type and capacity.
Transmission Fluid Specification:
Manual transmission may require SAE 75W-80 or 75W-90 GL-4 gear oil. Automatic transmission fluid (ATF) type (e.g., Dexron III equivalent) would be specified for automatic models.
Common Issues:
Potential issues can include aging suspension components (bushings, ball joints), occasional electrical gremlins, corrosion on older models, and timely replacement of the timing belt is crucial to prevent catastrophic engine damage. Climate control system issues and radiator leaks can also occur.
Brand Heritage:
Fiat has a long history of producing robust and practical family vehicles. The Marea continued this tradition, building upon the success of its predecessors like the Fiat Tempra.
Model Evolution:
The Marea was introduced in 1996 as a larger, more refined successor to the Fiat Tempra. It was available as a four-door saloon and a five-door estate (Weekend). A facelift occurred around 1999, introducing minor styling updates and revisions to engines and equipment.
Production Locations:
The Fiat Marea was primarily manufactured in Italy, but also in other Fiat plants globally, including Brazil and Poland, depending on market.
