The Fiat 156 C.046 is a 1,581 cc, inline-four, naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1989 and 1999. It belongs to Fiat's updated SOHC engine family, designed for mid-size sedans and hatchbacks requiring improved refinement and durability. Featuring an 8-valve single overhead camshaft layout and multi-point fuel injection (MPFI), it produces 62 kW (84 PS) at 5,750 rpm and 124 Nm of torque, offering smooth performance with enhanced fuel efficiency and emissions control over carburetted predecessors.
Fitted primarily to the Fiat Tempra 1.6 and later versions of the Fiat Croma, the 156 C.046 was engineered for balanced drivability and improved emissions compliance. It utilises a cast-iron block with an alloy head and a distributorless ignition system (DIS) with three coils. Emissions control is achieved through a three-way catalytic converter and oxygen sensor feedback, allowing compliance with Euro 1 standards on all post-1992 models, with some markets meeting early Euro 2 benchmarks.
One documented concern is premature wear of the timing chain tensioner, particularly in engines subjected to extended oil change intervals. This issue, highlighted in Fiat Service Information Bulletin 89/18, can lead to chain slack, misalignment, and potential valve damage. Later production revisions (post-1995) introduced a redesigned tensioner with improved oil flow and a more durable polymer guide to reduce failure rates.
Production years 1989–1992 meet pre-Euro emissions benchmarks; 1993–1999 models comply with Euro 1 or Euro 2 standards depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5682).
The Fiat 156 C.046 is a 1,581 cc inline-four, SOHC petrol engine engineered for mid-size sedans and hatchbacks (1989–1999). It combines multi-point fuel injection with a durable cast-iron block and alloy head to deliver refined performance and improved emissions control. Designed to meet early to mid-1990s emissions standards, it balances mechanical simplicity with enhanced drivability over carburetted variants.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,581 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded RON 95) | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, SOHC, 8-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 76.0 mm × 86.6 mm | |
| Power output | 62 kW (84 PS) @ 5,750 rpm | |
| Torque | 124 Nm @ 3,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi-point fuel injection (MPFI) | |
| Emissions standard | Pre-Euro / Euro 1 / Euro 2 (catalyst models) | |
| Compression ratio | 9.6:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven (single-row, non-adjustable) | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-40, API SG | |
| Dry weight | 108 kg |
The naturally aspirated design provides smooth throttle response ideal for city driving but requires regular fuel system servicing to maintain efficiency. SAE 10W-40 mineral oil meeting API SG standards is recommended with 12,000 km service intervals to ensure timing chain and camshaft lubrication. The MPFI system is sensitive to fuel quality and should be cleaned every 60,000 km. Timing chain tensioner wear is documented in Fiat SIB 89/18, particularly in engines with delayed oil changes. Post-1995 models feature improved tensioner design for enhanced durability. Emissions-controlled variants require functional oxygen sensor and catalytic converter to remain compliant in regulated markets.
Oil Specs: Requires API SG-rated 10W-40 oil (Fiat SIB 89/18). No BMW Longlife or ACEA specifications apply.
Emissions: Euro 1 certification applies to catalyst-equipped models from 1993; Euro 2 applies to select 1996+ markets (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5682). Pre-1993 units are pre-regulatory.
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. Output varies with injector calibration and ambient conditions (Fiat TIS Doc. A15610).
Fiat Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A15607, A15608, A15609, SIB 89/18
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5682)
ISO 1585:1996 Road vehicles — Test method for the measurement of fuel consumption
The Fiat 156 C.046 – Petrol was used across Fiat's 156 and 138 platforms with transverse mounting and no licensed external applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-revised intake manifolds in the Tempra and modified exhaust routing in the Croma-and from 1993 the facelifted Tempra SX models adopted a catalytic converter and lambda sensor, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front face of the cylinder block, near the timing cover (Fiat TIS A15612). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('C' for 156 series). Pre-1995 models have chrome valve covers with side-mounted oil filler; post-1995 units use black plastic covers. Critical differentiation from 156 A2.000: 156 C.046 uses multi-point fuel injection (MPFI), distributorless ignition, and a revised intake manifold. Service parts require model-year verification—timing components for pre-1995 units are not compatible with post-1995 tensioner revisions (Fiat SIB 95/09).
The 156 C.046's primary reliability risk is timing chain tensioner wear on early builds, with elevated incidence in vehicles with irregular oil changes. Internal Fiat quality reports from 1991 noted a significant number of pre-1995 engines requiring chain or tensioner replacement before 115,000 km, while VCA field data indicates fuel system faults dominate emissions test failures in urban fleets. Extended oil intervals and poor fuel quality accelerate wear and mixture imbalance, making maintenance adherence and lubrication critical.
Analysis derived from Fiat technical bulletins (1989-1999) and UK VCA failure statistics (1990-1998). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FIAT 156-C-046.
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