FIAT's Ulysse offered a European alternative to established MPVs, focusing on practicality and comfort for families.
Competitive Analysis
Direct Competitors:
Renault Espace, Citroën C8, Peugeot 807, Lancia Phedra, Volkswagen Sharan, Ford Galaxy, Seat Alhambra.
Key Features
Versatility:
Flexible seating configurations, ample interior space, designed for passenger comfort and cargo hauling.
Engine Technology:
The 2.0 HDI engine represents modern turbodiesel technology, known for its torque and fuel efficiency. The inclusion of a particle filter (FAP/DPF) signifies Euro 3/4 emissions compliance.
Engine rebuild procedures, turbocharger servicing, injector testing and replacement, EGR valve cleaning/replacement, DPF regeneration and replacement procedures, transmission rebuild, brake caliper overhaul, suspension bush replacement, power steering pump replacement.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting charts for common drivability issues, electrical faults, starting problems, braking issues. Use of diagnostic tools and interpretation of fault codes (DTCs).
Technical Specifications:
Torque wrench settings for all critical fasteners, engine timing specifications, valve clearances (if applicable), wheel alignment angles, fluid capacities.
Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed electrical schematics for all major systems, component location charts.
Technical Depth
Depth Level:
Comprehensive: Covers basic maintenance, intermediate repairs, and advanced engine/transmission overhauls and diagnostics.
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
Digital Format:
PDF (Portable Document Format)
Searchability:
Text-searchable PDF for efficient information retrieval.
Print Quality
Printable:
Printable, allowing users to create physical copies of specific sections or the entire manual.
Binding Type
Physical Binding Type:
N/A (Digital Format)
Paper Type
Physical Paper Type:
N/A (Digital Format)
⚙️ Engine Specifications
Primary Engine
Engine Type:
Inline 4-cylinder Turbocharged Diesel (HDI - High Pressure Injection)
Displacement:
1997 cc (2.0 Liters)
Bore X Stroke:
85 mm x 88 mm
Compression Ratio:
17.9:1 (typical for DW10 HDi)
Valve Train:
DOHC (Double Overhead Camshaft), 16 valves
Fuel System:
Common Rail Direct Injection (Bosch EDC15C or similar ECU)
Turbocharger:
Variable Geometry Turbocharger (VGT)
Emission Control:
Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF/FAP), Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR).
Performance
Horsepower Ps:
109 PS @ 4000 rpm (approximate)
Torque Nm:
250 Nm @ 1750 rpm (approximate)
Fuel System
Fuel Type:
Diesel
Recommended Fuel Grade:
EN 590 compliant Diesel fuel
Fuel Tank Capacity:
80 Liters
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Type:
5-speed Manual Transmission
Transmission Code Example:
MLG 44
Optional
Type:
4-speed Automatic Transmission (AL4 - likely on other variants, confirm for this specific engine/year)
Features
Clutch Type:
Hydraulically operated, single dry plate
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Length:
4737 mm
Width:
1812 mm
Height:
1751 mm
Wheelbase:
2823 mm
Interior
Seating Capacity:
7 Seats (typical configuration)
Cargo
Luggage Capacity Seats Up:
Approx. 485 liters (configurable)
Luggage Capacity Seats Down:
Over 1500 liters (with rear seats folded)
Weights
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1750 - 1850 kg (depending on configuration)
Gross Vehicle Weight:
Approx. 2400 - 2500 kg
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
Euro Ncap Rating:
4 Stars (Euro NCAP test conducted on similar Lancia Phedra/Peugeot 807 platform in 2003 - likely representative)
Active Features
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System
Ebd:
Electronic Brakeforce Distribution
Esp:
Electronic Stability Program (Optional, may vary by market/trim)
Traction Control:
ASR (Anti-Slip Regulation) / Traction Control (often linked with ESP)
Passive Features
Airbags:
Driver, front passenger, side airbags (front), curtain airbags (optional/later models).
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts with pre-tensioners and load limiters for all seats.
Child Seat Anchors:
ISOFIX anchor points for child seats.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Factory fitted radio/CD player with speaker system. Controls may be on steering wheel. Manual will cover basic operation and fuse locations.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Often available as an option or standard on higher trims. Manual will cover operation and basic troubleshooting.
Connectivity
Diagnostic Interface:
OBD-II (On-Board Diagnostics II) connector, typically located under the dashboard, used for engine management and emissions diagnostics.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Engine Oil Change:
Every 20,000 km or 12 months, whichever comes first.
Oil Filter Replacement:
At every engine oil change.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 km or 24 months.
Fuel Filter Replacement:
Every 40,000 km or 24 months.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Every 120,000 km or 5 years (crucial interval for HDI engines).
Coolant Replacement:
Every 60,000 km or 4 years.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Specification:
ACEA A3/B4 or C2/C3; API CF; VW 505 01 (for VW spec, but generally indicates quality for diesel with DPF) - consult manual for exact FIAT spec, often PSA B71 2290 or similar low-SAPS oil.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 6.0 Liters (with filter)
Coolant Type:
Antifreeze coolant (ethylene glycol based), typically Type 3 (blue or green) or equivalent.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4
Power Steering Fluid:
ATF Dexron II or III, or specific PSA hydraulic fluid.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-80 (e.g., PSA B71 2315 equivalent).
Known Issues
Dpf Clogging:
Diesel Particulate Filter can become clogged with soot, especially with short journeys. Requires regular regeneration cycles. Manual will detail regeneration procedures and troubleshooting.
Egr Valve Issues:
Exhaust Gas Recirculation valve can get dirty and stick, leading to performance issues and increased emissions. Requires cleaning or replacement.
Injection System:
HDI injectors can be sensitive to fuel quality. Issues may include rough running or starting problems. Manual covers testing and replacement.
Timing Belt Tensioner:
Failure of the timing belt tensioner or idler pulleys can lead to catastrophic engine damage. Adhering to the replacement interval is critical.
Electrical Gremlins:
Common in vehicles of this era, can include issues with sensors, ECUs, or wiring harness faults. Detailed wiring diagrams are essential for diagnosis.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Automaker:
FIAT (Fabbrica Italiana Automobili Torino) is one of Italy's oldest and largest automotive manufacturers, founded in 1899.
Model Evolution
Ulysse Generation:
This 2002 model represents the second generation of the FIAT Ulysse, which was part of a collaborative project with PSA Peugeot Citroën (resulting in the Ulysse, C8, 807, and Phedra).
Platform Sharing:
Shares the 'Eurovan 2' platform with its PSA counterparts, benefiting from shared development and manufacturing expertise.
Production
Production Period For This Generation:
2002 - 2010 (for the second generation Ulysse)
Manufacturing Location:
Primarily manufactured in Italy (Sevel Nord plant, also used by PSA).
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Segment Awards:
While specific awards for the 2002 Ulysse might be scarce, the PSA/FIAT joint venture platform was recognized for its practicality and space, making it a competitive offering in the MPV segment upon its release.