Executive/Luxury Sedan positioned as a premium offering within the Alfa Romeo lineup, competing with German and other European luxury sedans of its era.
Competitive Analysis
Key Competitors:
BMW 5 Series (E39/E60), Mercedes-Benz E-Class (W210/W211), Audi A6 (C5/C6), Jaguar S-Type, Volvo S80
Key Features
Key Vehicle Features:
Stylish Italian design, powerful V6 engines (Busso V6), comfortable and luxurious interior, front-wheel drive or Q4 all-wheel drive system, sophisticated chassis tuning
📋 Manual Details
Coverage Areas
Vehicle Variants Covered:
Facelift models (2003 onwards), also suitable for pre-facelift models (1998-2003)
Starting and driving, Instrument panel and controls, Door and window operation, Seat and steering wheel adjustment, Climate control operation, Audio system usage, Lighting controls, Wiper and washer operation, Fueling, Tire inflation and changing, Fluid level checks, Basic maintenance checks
Technical Depth
Technical Depth:
Covers essential owner-level information, troubleshooting common warning lights, and basic user-maintainable items. Does not include detailed mechanical repair procedures or advanced diagnostic information typically found in a service manual.
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
File Format:
N/A (Printed)
Print Quality
Print Quality:
Original Manufacturer Quality
Binding Type
Binding Type:
Staple Bound or Perfect Bound (typical for OEM manuals)
Pre-wiring for mobile phone integration (optional)
Lighting
Headlight Type:
Halogen (standard), Xenon/HID (optional on facelift models)
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval Km Miles:
10,000-15,000 km (6,000-10,000 miles) or 1 year (whichever comes first, depending on usage and oil type)
Timing Belt Replacement Km Miles:
105,000 km (60,000 miles) or 5 years (for Busso V6 engines, critical)
Spark Plug Replacement Km Miles:
40,000-60,000 km (25,000-37,000 miles), depending on type
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Specification:
SAE 10W-40 or 5W-40 API SN, ACEA A3/B3 or A3/B4 (check manual for specific viscosity and API ratings)
Coolant Specification:
Paraflu UP (or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant with organic additives)
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 4
Power Steering Fluid Type:
Specific Alfa Romeo fluid or Dexron III/Mercon (verify)
Known Issues
Common Issues Busso V6:
Timing belt failure (if not replaced on schedule), oil leaks (valve covers, oil cooler), intake manifold wear, potential crankshaft pulley issues.
Common Issues Jtd:
EGR valve issues, DPF regeneration problems (on later diesel models with DPF), injector issues, turbocharger wear.
Common Issues Electrical:
CAN bus communication errors, window regulator failures, climate control module issues, dashboard warning lights (minor sensor faults).
Common Issues Suspension:
Worn suspension bushings, track control arm wear, rear axle bush failures.
Common Issues General:
Corrosion on subframes and suspension components, interior trim wear, occasional HVAC blower motor issues.
Part Numbers
Timing Belt Kit Part Number Example V6:
71714020 (Kit includes belt, tensioners, idler pulleys)
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Brand Heritage Connection:
Represents Alfa Romeo's commitment to sporty driving dynamics, elegant styling, and premium segment presence.
Model Evolution
Model Evolution Summary:
Successor to the Alfa Romeo 164. The 166 was a significant step up in refinement and technology. The 2003 facelift brought updated styling (particularly the front end), improved interior, and revised engine options.