Segment:
Small family car / Compact car
Key Rivals:
Ford Focus, Volkswagen Golf, Opel/Vauxhall Astra, Peugeot 306, Renault Mégane, Honda Civic
Design:
Distinctive styling, particularly the Bravo's sporty appeal. Spacious interior for its class.
Handling:
Generally well-regarded for its ride comfort and predictable handling, especially for the era.
Engine Options:
Wide range of petrol and diesel engines, including efficient FIRE and common-rail diesel units.
Purpose:
Empowers owners to perform DIY servicing and repairs, saving money and gaining mechanical knowledge.
Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, disassembly, cylinder head, valve train, pistons, crankshaft, connecting rods, oil system, cooling system, fuel injection, ignition system (for applicable engines)
Engine Management:
ECU diagnosis, sensor operation, emissions control systems, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs)
Fuel System:
Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel filter, fuel injectors, fuel pressure regulator, fuel lines
Transmission Manual:
Clutch system, gearbox disassembly/assembly, gear selection, synchronizers, bearings
Transmission Automatic:
Torque converter, valve body, planetary gear sets, hydraulic controls, electronic control module (if applicable)
Suspension Front:
MacPherson strut design, control arms, anti-roll bar, steering knuckles, bush replacement
Suspension Rear:
Torsion beam or independent suspension (depending on variant), shock absorbers, springs, trailing arms
Steering System:
Manual steering rack, power steering system (hydraulic or electric), steering column, tie rod ends
Braking System:
Front disc brakes, rear drum or disc brakes, brake master cylinder, brake booster, ABS system (if equipped), brake fluid, bleeding procedures
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system (alternator, starter motor), lighting system (headlights, taillights, interior lights), fuses, relays, wiring diagrams
Body Electrical:
Power windows, central locking, mirrors, wipers, horn, dashboard instruments, warning lights
Climate Control:
HVAC system, air conditioning (compressor, condenser, evaporator, refrigerant charging), heater core, ventilation
Exhaust Components:
Exhaust manifolds, catalytic converter, mufflers, pipes
Drive Axles:
Front-wheel drive system, CV joints, drive shafts, differential
Body Panels:
Bodywork repair, panel replacement, door mechanisms, hood, trunk lid
Interior:
Seat removal/installation, dashboard trim, carpet replacement, headliner
Scheduled Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-ups, spark plug replacement, timing belt/chain inspection and replacement (critical item)
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting common faults, symptom-based diagnosis, using diagnostic scan tools
Repair Procedures:
Component removal and installation, rebuilding specific systems (e.g., engine, transmission), bodywork repair
Wiring Repair:
Component testing, wire tracing, connector repair, wiring harness repair
Technical Specifications:
Torque specifications for critical fasteners, electrical component resistance values, fluid capacities, diagnostic parameters
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, detailed electrical troubleshooting
Engine Variants:
1.2L 16V FIRE, 1.4L 8V FIRE, 1.6L 16V, 1.8L 16V Lancia Twin Cam, 1.9L TD (Turbo Diesel), 1.9L JTD (Common Rail Diesel)
Power Range:
Approximately 75 PS (1.2L) to 147 PS (1.8L GT/HGT)
Torque Range:
Varies significantly based on engine, e.g., ~110 Nm to ~180 Nm
Injection Type:
Multi-point fuel injection (MPI) for petrol, direct injection (common rail for JTD)
System:
Electronic ignition with distributorless ignition system (DIS) on many models
Standards:
Euro 2, Euro 3 (later models)
Oil Change:
Typically every 15,000 km or 12 months, whichever comes first (check manual for specific engine variants)
Timing Belt:
Critical item. Replacement every 90,000 - 120,000 km or 5-7 years, depending on engine. Failure can cause catastrophic engine damage. Manual will specify exact interval and procedure.
Spark Plugs:
Typically every 30,000 - 60,000 km, depending on plug type (standard vs. platinum/iridium)
Engine Oil:
Refer to manual for specific viscosity (e.g., 10W-40, 5W-40) and ACEA specifications (e.g., A2/A3, B2/B3, B4).
Coolant:
Ethylene glycol based antifreeze. Capacity approx. 5.5 - 6.5 liters. Refer to manual for correct type (e.g., Paraflu UP) and mix ratio.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 brake fluid. Replacement recommended every 2 years.
Power Steering Fluid:
Hydraulic fluid, refer to manual for specific type (e.g., Tutela GI/E or equivalent ATF).
Electrical:
Corrosion on connectors, dashboard warning light issues, central locking faults, window regulator problems.
Engine:
Timing belt tensioner failure (critical), oil leaks from gaskets and seals, thermostat issues, exhaust lambda sensor failure.
Suspension Steering:
Wear in front suspension bushes, ball joints, and track rod ends; power steering pump whine/failure.
Bodywork:
Rust can be a concern on sills, wheel arches, and rear spring mounts, especially in adverse climates.
Transmission:
Clutch wear, gearbox synchromesh issues (especially on higher mileage cars).