Basic Information Identification Make: Alfa Romeo Model: 156 Year: 1998 Codes Internal Model Code: 932 Introduction Market Position Segment: Compact Executive Car / Sport Sedan Target Market: Enthusiasts and owners...
Enthusiasts and owners seeking in-depth knowledge for maintenance and repair.
Competitive Analysis
Key Competitors Era:
BMW 3 Series, Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Audi A4, Volvo S40.
Key Features
Design Philosophy:
Known for its distinctive Italian styling, sporty driving dynamics, and front-wheel drive platform (with optional Q4 all-wheel drive). Embraced by those who appreciate driving feel and aesthetics.
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides factory-level expertise, enabling significant savings on labor costs and empowering owners to perform maintenance and repairs confidently.
Manual Details
Coverage Areas
Primary Coverage:
Full Factory Service Repair
Applicable Styles:
All Styles Covered
Page Count
Estimated Page Count:
Hundreds of Pages (Exact count not specified, but substantial for factory manual)
Manual Type
Type:
Factory Service Repair Manual
Authenticity:
Actual Genuine Repair Service Factory Manuals (Not 3rd party)
Alfa Romeo's signature Twin Spark ignition system, featuring two spark plugs per cylinder for improved combustion efficiency and performance.
Performance
1.6 Ts Approximate Power:
120 PS (approx. 118 bhp)
2.0 Ts Approximate Power:
155 PS (approx. 153 bhp)
2.5 V6 24V Approximate Power:
190 PS (approx. 187 bhp)
2.0 Jtd Approximate Power:
105 PS (approx. 104 bhp)
Fuel System
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI) for petrol engines, Common Rail Direct Injection (CRDI) for JTD diesel.
Fuel Type Petrol:
Unleaded Petrol (95 RON recommended)
Fuel Type Diesel:
Diesel
Transmission
Standard
Gearbox Options Petrol:
5-speed Manual
Optional
Gearbox Options Petrol:
4-speed 'Sportronic' Automatic Transmission (optional on some variants)
Features
Differential:
Front-wheel drive with open differential as standard.
AWD Option:
Q4 All-Wheel Drive available on some V6 models.
Dimensions
Exterior
Body Styles:
4-door Sedan (Berlina), 5-door Sportwagon.
Length:
Approx. 4,485 mm (Sedan)
Width:
Approx. 1,740 mm
Height:
Approx. 1,420 mm (Sedan)
Weights
Curb Weight:
Varies by engine and specification, typically from 1300 kg to 1550 kg.
Safety Features
Ratings
Euro Ncap Rating Era:
Achieved a 4-star Euro NCAP rating in its initial testing, a good result for its time.
Active Features
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD).
Traction Control:
Optional Traction Control System (ASR) available on some models.
Passive Features
Airbags:
Front airbags for driver and passenger, optional side airbags.
Body Structure:
Designed with a reinforced safety cell and crumple zones.
Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Factory fitted radio/cassette or CD player, often with steering wheel controls on higher trims.
Climate Control:
Manual or automatic climate control systems available.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Available as an option on some models.
Connectivity
Connectivity Features:
Limited by era, primarily focused on audio system connectivity. No integrated Bluetooth or USB as standard.
Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval Petrol:
Typically every 10,000-15,000 km or 12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil specification. Consult manual for specific engine.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Crucial for Twin Spark engines, typically every 60,000-100,000 km or 5 years. Catastrophic failure if not replaced.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Petrol Recommendation:
API SJ or higher, ACEA A3/B3 or A3/B4. Viscosity grades like 10W-40 or 10W-50 are common. Specific recommendations vary by engine variant.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol based antifreeze with corrosion inhibitors. Typically a 50/50 mix with de-ionized water.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4.
Known Issues
Common Issues List:
Timing belt tensioner failure (on TS engines), minor electrical gremlins, wear on suspension components (wishbones, ball joints), potential issues with ABS sensors, rust on sills and wheel arches, wear on door seals.
Twin Spark Maintenance Note:
Diligent adherence to timing belt replacement intervals is paramount for Twin Spark engines to prevent catastrophic engine damage.
Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Brand Identity:
Alfa Romeo has a long and storied history of producing sporty and aesthetically pleasing Italian automobiles with a focus on driving pleasure.
Model Evolution
Predecessor:
Alfa Romeo 155.
Introduction Year:
1997.
Design Influence:
Designed by Walter de Silva at Alfa Romeo Style Centre. Known for its distinctive 'Scudetto' grille and flowing lines.
Production
Production Location:
Pomigliano d'Arco, Italy.
Production Years:
1997–2007 (156 model generation).
Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
European Car Of The Year Nomination:
Named 'European Car of the Year' in 1998, highlighting its significant impact and positive reception.
Design Awards:
Frequently praised for its design, winning numerous accolades for its styling.
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