🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Fiat Model: Tipo Year: 1990 Market: Global (primarily Europe) Codes Chassis Codes: Various designations depending on body style and market Engine Codes: Various, e.g., 159 A.000 (1.4), 138 C.000 (1.6), 154 B.046 (1.8 DOHC), 160 A.000 (2.0 DOHC) 👋 Introduction Market Position Positioning: The Fiat Tipo was a significant model for Fiat, designed to compete in the C-segment (compact family car) market, offering practicality and a modern design for its era. Competitive Analysis Competitors: Competed directly with vehicles such as the Volkswagen Golf, Ford Escort, Opel/Vauxhall Astra, Renault 19, and Peugeot 309. Key Features Design Philosophy: Focus on aerodynamic styling, spacious interior for its class, and a range of efficient engine options. Known for its galvanized steel body for improved corrosion resistance. Manual Value Proposition: This manual provides technicians and DIY enthusiasts with the authoritative, factory-backed information necessary to accurately diagnose, service, and repair the 1990 Fiat Tipo, ensuring optimal performance and longevity. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Coverage: All Models & All Repairs A-Z Page Count Page Count: Extensive (specific count not provided, but described as comprehensive) Manual Type Type: Factory Authorized Service and Repair Manual Language Language: Likely English (standard for global technical documentation, but original may vary) Format Format: Printed Manual (implied by sales context, original factory format) 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine Mechanical: Engine assembly, cylinder head, crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods, lubrication system, cooling system, timing components, engine management system components. Engine Electrical: Ignition system, fuel injection system (MPI/SPI), starting system, charging system, engine control unit (ECU) diagnostics and wiring diagrams. Transmission Manual: Clutch operation, gearbox disassembly and assembly, gear shift mechanism, differential, maintenance and repair. Transmission Automatic: Operation, hydraulic control, torque converter, disassembly and assembly, maintenance, troubleshooting (if applicable for the year/market). Drivetrain: Front-wheel drive system, driveshafts, constant velocity (CV) joints, wheel bearings. Suspension: Front suspension (e.g., MacPherson struts), rear suspension (e.g., torsion beam or independent), shock absorbers, springs, control arms, bushings, alignment procedures. Steering: Steering rack, power steering system (if equipped), steering column, tie rods, wheel alignment. Brakes: Front and rear brake systems (disc/drum), hydraulic system, master cylinder, brake booster, ABS (if equipped), brake pad/shoe replacement, caliper/wheel cylinder overhaul, bleeding procedures. Electrical System: Battery, alternator, starter motor, lighting system (headlights, taillights, interior), dashboard instruments, wiring diagrams, fuses, relays, power windows, central locking (if applicable). Body And Chassis: Body panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, trunk lid, hood, interior trim, body repair, rust prevention and repair, chassis components. HVAC: Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system operation, components, servicing, and refrigerant handling (if applicable). Fuel System: Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel lines, fuel filter, fuel injectors, fuel pressure regulator. Procedures Included Scheduled Maintenance: Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, timing belt replacement, fluid checks and flushes, inspections. Diagnostic Procedures: Troubleshooting guides for common symptoms, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) for EFI systems, fault finding for electrical issues. Repair And Overhaul: Complete engine rebuild procedures, transmission overhaul, brake caliper servicing, suspension component replacement, electrical component repair. Adjustment Procedures: Valve clearance adjustment, ignition timing adjustment, idle speed adjustment, handbrake adjustment, headlight aiming. Replacement Procedures: Replacement of major components such as engine, transmission, starter, alternator, water pump, fuel pump, brake master cylinder, etc. Special Tools: Identification and usage of specific Fiat special tools required for certain procedures. Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive, covering basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds. Diagnostic Capability: Detailed diagnostic information for EFI and ignition systems, including wiring diagrams and fault code interpretation. Factory Accuracy: Vehicle-specific information, representing exact procedures used by dealership technicians. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format Format: Printed book Print Quality Quality: High-quality print, durable paper suitable for workshop environments. Binding Type Binding: Likely sturdy binding (e.g., spiral-bound or stitched) to allow laying flat for ease of use. Paper Type Paper: Durable, possibly coated paper to resist grease and workshop conditions. ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Variants: Available with a variety of FIRE (Fully Integrated Robotised Engine) and Lampredi-designed engines, including 1.1L, 1.4L, 1.6L, 1.8L DOHC, and 2.0L DOHC petrol engines. Diesel variants (1.9D) were also offered. Performance Horsepower Range: Typically ranging from 55 hp (1.1L) to 115 hp (2.0L DOHC), with diesel variants around 60-70 hp. Torque Range: Varies by engine, e.g., 1.6L producing approximately 125 Nm, 2.0L DOHC around 170 Nm. Fuel System Induction Type: Carburetor (early models/lower trims) or Electronic Fuel Injection (SPI/MPI) on most variants, particularly for 1990 models. Fuel Type: Unleaded gasoline (RON 91-98 depending on engine), Diesel fuel. Ignition System Ignition Type: Distributorless ignition system (DIS) or distributor-based ignition on some earlier/lower-spec engines. Cooling System Cooling Type: Liquid-cooled, pressurized system with electric cooling fan. 🔧 Transmission Standard Type Standard: 5-speed manual transmission (typically). Optional Type Optional: 3-speed or 4-speed automatic transmission (availability varied by market and engine). Features Clutch Type: Dry, single-plate diaphragm spring clutch. Gear Ratios: Specific...
The Fiat Tipo was a significant model for Fiat, designed to compete in the C-segment (compact family car) market, offering practicality and a modern design for its era.
Competitive Analysis
Competitors:
Competed directly with vehicles such as the Volkswagen Golf, Ford Escort, Opel/Vauxhall Astra, Renault 19, and Peugeot 309.
Key Features
Design Philosophy:
Focus on aerodynamic styling, spacious interior for its class, and a range of efficient engine options. Known for its galvanized steel body for improved corrosion resistance.
Manual Value Proposition:
This manual provides technicians and DIY enthusiasts with the authoritative, factory-backed information necessary to accurately diagnose, service, and repair the 1990 Fiat Tipo, ensuring optimal performance and longevity.
📋 Manual Details
Coverage Areas
Coverage:
All Models & All Repairs A-Z
Page Count
Page Count:
Extensive (specific count not provided, but described as comprehensive)
Manual Type
Type:
Factory Authorized Service and Repair Manual
Language
Language:
Likely English (standard for global technical documentation, but original may vary)
Format
Format:
Printed Manual (implied by sales context, original factory format)
Front suspension (e.g., MacPherson struts), rear suspension (e.g., torsion beam or independent), shock absorbers, springs, control arms, bushings, alignment procedures.
Steering:
Steering rack, power steering system (if equipped), steering column, tie rods, wheel alignment.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems (disc/drum), hydraulic system, master cylinder, brake booster, ABS (if equipped), brake pad/shoe replacement, caliper/wheel cylinder overhaul, bleeding procedures.
Electrical System:
Battery, alternator, starter motor, lighting system (headlights, taillights, interior), dashboard instruments, wiring diagrams, fuses, relays, power windows, central locking (if applicable).
Body And Chassis:
Body panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, trunk lid, hood, interior trim, body repair, rust prevention and repair, chassis components.
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system operation, components, servicing, and refrigerant handling (if applicable).
Replacement of major components such as engine, transmission, starter, alternator, water pump, fuel pump, brake master cylinder, etc.
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of specific Fiat special tools required for certain procedures.
Technical Depth
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds.
Diagnostic Capability:
Detailed diagnostic information for EFI and ignition systems, including wiring diagrams and fault code interpretation.
Factory Accuracy:
Vehicle-specific information, representing exact procedures used by dealership technicians.
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
Format:
Printed book
Print Quality
Quality:
High-quality print, durable paper suitable for workshop environments.
Binding Type
Binding:
Likely sturdy binding (e.g., spiral-bound or stitched) to allow laying flat for ease of use.
Paper Type
Paper:
Durable, possibly coated paper to resist grease and workshop conditions.
⚙️ Engine Specifications
Primary Engine
Engine Variants:
Available with a variety of FIRE (Fully Integrated Robotised Engine) and Lampredi-designed engines, including 1.1L, 1.4L, 1.6L, 1.8L DOHC, and 2.0L DOHC petrol engines. Diesel variants (1.9D) were also offered.
Performance
Horsepower Range:
Typically ranging from 55 hp (1.1L) to 115 hp (2.0L DOHC), with diesel variants around 60-70 hp.
Torque Range:
Varies by engine, e.g., 1.6L producing approximately 125 Nm, 2.0L DOHC around 170 Nm.
Fuel System
Induction Type:
Carburetor (early models/lower trims) or Electronic Fuel Injection (SPI/MPI) on most variants, particularly for 1990 models.
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (RON 91-98 depending on engine), Diesel fuel.
Ignition System
Ignition Type:
Distributorless ignition system (DIS) or distributor-based ignition on some earlier/lower-spec engines.
Cooling System
Cooling Type:
Liquid-cooled, pressurized system with electric cooling fan.
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Type Standard:
5-speed manual transmission (typically).
Optional
Type Optional:
3-speed or 4-speed automatic transmission (availability varied by market and engine).
Features
Clutch Type:
Dry, single-plate diaphragm spring clutch.
Gear Ratios:
Specific ratios detailed in the manual for each engine/transmission combination.
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Body Styles:
3-door hatchback, 5-door hatchback, 5-door station wagon (TipoÀù Famigliare), and 2-door coupe (Tipo Croma/Tempra Coupe).
Length:
Approx. 4040 mm (hatchback), 4390 mm (station wagon).
Width:
Approx. 1700 mm.
Height:
Approx. 1430 mm (hatchback).
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2540 mm.
Weights
Curb Weight:
Approx. 950-1150 kg, depending on engine and equipment.
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
Crash Safety:
Euro NCAP ratings were not standard for this era; however, Fiat focused on modern safety features for its time. The manual would detail passive safety systems.
Active Features
Braking System:
Front ventilated discs, rear solid discs or drums. ABS was an optional feature on higher trims.
Passive Features
Seatbelts:
Front seatbelt pre-tensioners and height adjustment, rear seatbelts.
Body Structure:
Rigid passenger safety cell, crumple zones, side impact protection beams (depending on market regulations).
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Basic AM/FM radio with cassette player was common. Options for upgraded sound systems existed. Manual covers speaker replacement and basic wiring.
Driver Assistance
ABS Availability:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was an optional feature, not standard across all models.
Connectivity
Central Locking:
Central locking and power windows were available on higher trim levels and as optional extras. Manual details their operation and troubleshooting.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 7,500-10,000 km or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used. Manual specifies exact intervals.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Crucial for interference engines. Intervals typically around 60,000-80,000 km or 4-5 years. The manual will detail the exact interval for each engine type.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Intervals vary by plug type, often 20,000-40,000 km.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil:
API SF/SG classification. Viscosity: SAE 10W-40 or 15W-40 recommended for general use, with specific grades detailed in the manual for various temperatures.
Coolant:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze/coolant. Mixture ratio of 50% coolant and 50% distilled water is standard. Manual specifies type and capacity.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid. Manual specifies type and replacement interval.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 gear oil. Specific capacity and type detailed in the manual.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron-II or equivalent automatic transmission fluid. Manual specifies type and capacity.
Known Issues
Common Problems:
Minor electrical gremlins (e.g., dashboard warning lights, central locking), wear on suspension bushings, potential for exhaust system corrosion, timing belt failure if not replaced on schedule (interference engines).
Fuel System Issues:
Clogged fuel injectors on MPI systems, potential fuel pump wear.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Fiat History:
Fiat, founded in 1899, is one of Italy's oldest and largest automobile manufacturers, known for innovation and mass production.
Model Evolution
Tipo Development:
Developed under project 'Tipo 4', aiming for a versatile platform that could spawn multiple body styles and compete across different segments. It was a successor to models like the Fiat Ritmo.
Production
Production Years:
1988-1995 (for the first generation Tipo).
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily manufactured in Italy, but production sites could have extended to other Fiat plants globally.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
European Car Of The Year:
The Fiat Tipo platform was critically acclaimed and was a nominee for European Car of the Year, showcasing its advanced design and engineering for the late 1980s.
Ratings
Safety Ratings Era:
While formal Euro NCAP ratings weren't available, the Tipo was considered competitive in its safety features for its time, with a focus on structural integrity and passive safety.