The Lancia 156 C.046 is a 1,998 cc, inline‑four petrol engine produced between 1998 and 2005. It features a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) design with variable valve timing (VVT) on the intake cam, delivering 103 kW (140 PS) and 181 Nm of torque. Its VVT system enables optimized valve timing for improved low‑end torque and fuel efficiency.
Fitted primarily to the Lancia Lybra and Lancia Thesis during this period, the 156 C.046 was engineered for refined, comfortable cruising with adequate power for highway overtaking. Emissions compliance for its production run was managed through multi‑point fuel injection and catalytic converter technology, meeting Euro 3 standards.
One documented service consideration is potential failure of the variable valve timing solenoid, which can trigger a check engine light and cause rough idling. This issue, referenced in Fiat Group Service Bulletin 99‑08‑22, is often due to oil sludge buildup restricting solenoid operation. Regular oil changes with the correct specification are the primary preventative measure.
Production years 1998–2005 meet Euro 3 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789).
The Lancia 156 C.046 is a 1,998 cc inline‑four petrol engine engineered for executive sedans (1998-2005). It combines DOHC valvetrain with intake variable valve timing (VVT) to deliver smooth power delivery and enhanced fuel economy. Designed to meet Euro 3 standards, it balances performance with the emissions requirements of its era.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,998 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 86.0 mm × 86.0 mm | |
| Power output | 103 kW (140 PS) @ 6,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 181 Nm @ 3,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi‑point fuel injection (Magneti Marelli) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 3 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Belt‑driven | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W‑40 (ACEA A3/B3) | |
| Dry weight | 142 kg |
The VVT system provides a broad torque curve for relaxed driving but requires strict 60,000 km timing belt replacement intervals to prevent engine damage. Using ACEA A3/B3 specification oil is critical to prevent sludge buildup that can clog the VVT solenoid, leading to performance issues. The Magneti Marelli injection system is generally reliable but benefits from clean fuel. Pre-2002 engines should have the VVT solenoid inspected if rough idling or fault codes occur, as per Fiat SIB 99-08-22.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 10W-40 meeting ACEA A3/B3 specification (Fiat SIB 99-08-22).
Emissions: Euro 3 certification applies to all 1998-2005 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789).
Power Ratings: Measured under EEC 80/1269 standards. Output consistent across model range (Fiat TIS Doc. F98767).
Fiat Technical Information System (TIS): Docs F98767, SIB 99-08-22
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/6789)
European Economic Community Directive 80/1269/EEC
The Lancia 156 C.046 was used across Lancia's Lybra and Thesis platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received minor platform-specific adaptations-different engine mounts and accessory brackets-and no significant facelift revisions occurred during its production, ensuring broad parts interchangeability. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on a flat boss on the front of the cylinder block, below the exhaust manifold (Fiat TIS F98767). The full code "156 C.046" will be clearly visible. Visually, it can be identified by its black plastic camshaft cover with "16V" embossed on top and the VVT actuator on the intake camshaft pulley. Critical differentiation from the non-VVT 2.0L: The VVT engine has an additional solenoid and oil line on the cylinder head. Service parts like the timing belt kit are generally compatible across all applications.
The 156 C.046's primary reliability risk is VVT solenoid failure if oil changes are neglected. Fiat Group internal data indicated a correlation between extended oil change intervals and solenoid malfunction. Urban driving with frequent short trips accelerates oil degradation, making adherence to the manufacturer's oil change schedule critical.
Analysis derived from Fiat Group technical bulletins (1998-2005) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2005-2015). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about LANCIA 156-C-046.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
Independent Technical Reference
EngineCode.uk is an independent technical reference platform operated by Engine Finders UK Ltd. We are not affiliated with LANCIA or any other manufacturer. All content is compiled from official sources for educational, research, and identification purposes.
Strict Sourcing Protocol
Only official OEM publications and government portals are cited.
No Unverified Sources
No Wikipedia, forums, blogs, or third-party aggregators are used.
Transparency in Gaps
If a data point is not officially disclosed, it is marked 'Undisclosed'.
Regulatory Stability
EU regulations are referenced using CELEX identifiers for long-term stability.
LANCIA Official Site
Owner literature, service manuals, technical releases, and plant documentation.
EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.
DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
UK type-approval authority for automotive products.
Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
WLTP and RDE testing procedures for emissions certification.
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.
VCA Certification Portal
Type-approval guidance and documentation.
Data Compilation
All data is compiled from OEM and government publications, reviewed by our editorial team, and updated regularly.
Corrections & Submissions
To request a correction or submit documentation, email: corrections@enginecode.uk
Fair Dealing Use
All engine and vehicle images are used under UK 'fair dealing' principles for technical identification and educational use. Rights remain with their respective owners.
Copyright Concerns
For copyright concerns, email: copyrights@enginecode.uk
GDPR Compliance
EngineCode.uk complies with UK GDPR. We do not collect personal data unless explicitly provided.
Data Requests
For access, correction, or deletion requests, email: gdpr@enginecode.uk
Trademark Notice
All trademarks, logos, and engine codes are the property of their respective owners. Use on this site is strictly for reference and identification.
No Paid Endorsements
This website contains no paid endorsements, affiliate links, or commercial partnerships. We do not sell parts or services.
Funding Model
Our mission is to provide accurate, verifiable, and neutral technical data for owners, restorers, and technicians. This site is self-funded.
All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialLANCIA documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed“ .
All external links open in new tabs. Please verify current availability of resources.
