Positioning:
The Fiat Ulysse, particularly the V6 S24 variant, was positioned as a premium, versatile MPV (Multi-Purpose Vehicle) in its segment, offering a blend of spaciousness, comfort, and performance, often competing with models from Peugeot, Citroën, Renault, Volkswagen, and Ford.
Competition:
Competed with vehicles like the Peugeot 807, Citroën C8, Lancia Zeta (earlier models), and the Eurovan platform contemporaries. The Ulysse aimed for a more refined driving experience and higher feature content compared to some rivals.
Features:
The 3.0i V6 engine provided strong performance for an MPV. Its spacious interior, flexible seating arrangements, and comfortable ride made it ideal for family transport. The S24 designation likely refers to a specific trim level or engine output variant.
Systems:
Engine mechanical, Engine control (ECU), Fuel system, Ignition system, Exhaust system, Cooling system, Lubrication system, Transmission (automatic), Drivetrain, Suspension (front and rear), Steering system, Brakes (ABS, EBD), Electrical system (lighting, power accessories, wiring diagrams), HVAC system, Body and chassis, Interior trim, Body exterior, Safety restraint systems (SRS/Airbags), Diagnostic procedures, Troubleshooting guides.
Procedures:
Routine maintenance, Scheduled services, Component removal and installation, Component disassembly and assembly, Torque specifications, Diagnostic fault code (DTC) interpretation, Electrical troubleshooting, Wiring harness repair, Suspension alignment, Brake servicing, Engine tuning, Clutch replacement (if applicable to specific variants, though this is V6 auto), DPF regeneration (if applicable), Climate control system repair.
Depth:
Detailed diagnostic procedures, overhaul instructions for major components, in-depth electrical troubleshooting, specification tables for all adjustable settings and fluid capacities.
Engine Overhaul:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for engine disassembly, component inspection, reassembly, and critical torquing sequences for main bearings, connecting rods, and cylinder heads.
Transmission Overhaul:
Component-level breakdown and reassembly for the automatic transmission, including valve body servicing, clutch pack replacement, and torque converter procedures.
Electrical Troubleshooting:
Comprehensive wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems, location of electrical components, diagnostic flowcharts for common electrical faults, troubleshooting ABS, SRS, instrument cluster, and body control module issues.
Tune Up Specs:
Ignition timing (if adjustable, though typically fixed on MPI), spark plug gap, idle speed specifications, fuel pressure readings.
Wheel Alignment:
Front and rear wheel alignment specifications (camber, caster, toe), caster range, maximum steering angle.
Tire Specifications:
Recommended tire sizes (e.g., 215/60 R16, 215/55 R17), recommended tire pressures for various load conditions.
Brake Specifications:
Disc sizes, pad specifications, rotor thickness minimums, caliper piston bore diameters, brake fluid bleeding sequence.
Torque Specs:
Detailed torque specifications for critical fasteners including engine mounts, suspension components, brake caliper mounting, wheel nuts, and engine internal components.
Horsepower:
Approximately 204-210 PS (150-154 kW) at 6000 rpm (exact figure depends on market and specific tuning).
Torque:
Approximately 285-290 Nm (210-214 lb-ft) at 3750 rpm (exact figure depends on market and specific tuning).
System:
Electronic Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI) with Sequential Injection.
Configuration:
60-degree V6, naturally aspirated.
Bore X Stroke:
87.0 mm x 82.6 mm
Displacement:
2946 cc (3.0 Liters)
Compression Ratio:
10.5:1
Valvetrain:
DOHC (Double Overhead Camshafts), 4 valves per cylinder.
Emission Control:
Euro 3 compliant, catalytic converter.
Euro Ncap:
4 stars (for comparable models of the era, specific 2002 Ulysse rating may vary or not be directly available, but the platform generally performed well).
Features:
ABS with EBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution), Traction Control (ASR), Cruise Control.
Features:
Multiple airbags (front, side), ISOFIX child seat anchors, Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters for all seats, collapsible steering column.
Oil Change:
Every 15,000 km or 12 months, whichever comes first (check manual for specific grade and type).
Major Service:
Timing belt replacement recommended every 100,000-120,000 km or 5-6 years, whichever comes first. This is a critical service for the V6 engine.
Engine Oil:
Refer to manual for exact specification, typically SAE 10W-40 or 5W-40 synthetic oil meeting API SM/CF or ACEA A3/B3/B4 standards. Capacity approx. 5.5 liters with filter.
Coolant:
Antifreeze/coolant mixture (e.g., G11 or G12, typically 50/50 mix with distilled water). Capacity approx. 9.5 liters.
Power Steering Fluid:
Refer to manual, typically ATF Dexron II/III or specific PSA fluid.
Common Problems:
Electronic throttle body issues, automatic transmission control unit (TCU) failures (especially early AL4 variants), water ingress into ECU due to drain hole blockage, timing belt tensioner issues (critical to follow interval), suspension component wear (bushings, ball joints), HVAC blower motor resistor failures, electrical gremlins in window regulators and central locking.
Filters:
Oil Filter: e.g., Purflux LS282, Mann-Filter W914/2, Mahle OC205/1. Air Filter: e.g., Mann-Filter C26154/1. Cabin Filter: e.g., Mann-Filter CU2736.
Heritage:
Fiat has a long history in automotive manufacturing, known for innovation and a wide range of vehicles from small city cars to commercial vans. The Ulysse represents their contribution to the MPV segment.
Evolution:
The Fiat Ulysse is part of a joint venture project with PSA Peugeot Citroën, sharing its platform and many components with the Peugeot 807 and Citroën C8. This second generation (2002-2010) was a significant redesign from the first generation Ulysse.
Production Period:
Second generation: 2002-2010.
Manufacturing Location:
Sevel Sud factory in Val di Sangro, Italy (common production site for PSA/Fiat joint venture vehicles).
