Advice needed for new owner

[Bob Bishop]

Hello everyone, I've just bought a 1997/8 Brava SX 1.6 16-valve to replace my long owned Fiat Tipo, written off after being shunted up the back. The engine is 182A4.000 Version182BB1AA11 Vin No. ZFA182000*0459++++
So what does the Big Brown immobilisor Key do? Does it have a battery in it? Does it provide a reference for the engine ECU, and if so, how does it do it? I have the Drivers Handbook and according to the SX spec I should have power steering, and it feels like power steering when I drive it, but under the bonnet I can't find a reservoir for topping it up even tho' the handbook shows one. Any ideas? Also, the h'book recommends SAE 75W/90 for the gearbox but the handbook doesn't show where the filler or drain is. Where are they? And finally, is the Haynes repair manual any good? Be glad to get these problems sorted out, please help,
Bob.

 

[marko]

Hi Bob and welcome to the forum.
I can't really help you on the layout of your engine bay as yours sounds like a Mk1 Brava and I have a Mk2 Bravo.
The red key however, I can help with.
All your keys are fitted with a transponder (no battery) that contains programed information that can be read when your key is in the ignition barrel or in the ECU. The information allows the immobilisor to disarm on the car and you to start it up. The 2 blue keys that usually get supplied are for 'everyday' use and the red one should be locked away until such a time as you may need it.

The handbook - v.cheap from FIAT goes into more detail so i would buy one if you haven't already.

Just so you know. Loose all the keys and the 'damage' to your pocket is significant - £800-£900.

As for the Haynes Manual - yes it is helpful, but does have its limits. I find it most useful as an anasthetic!

Happy motoring.

 

[Tom]

The red/brown key allows you to program new blue keys to the immobiliser.

The power steering fuild is in a white-ish resevior at the back of the engine bay with a black screw top lid, just to the right of the brake fluid. (should have a yellow sticker with a picture of a steering wheel on it)

The haynes manual will show you the location of the gearbox filler, its on the front of the gearbox and you need to remove the battery to get at it. The drain plug is accessed via the nearside wheelarch and is a bitch to remove.

I use castrol syntrax gearbox oil.

 

[Wimmy]

Re: Re: Advice needed for new owner

And dont forget the bravo guide http://www.bravo-guide.co.uk

 

[Anonymous]

Re: Re: Re: Advice needed for new owner

was that a plug lol

 

[Roberto]

Re: Re: Re: Re: Advice needed for new owner

Nope, this is a plug !

LOL, sorry

Rob

 

[Roberto]

Re: Re: Re: Re: Re: Advice needed for new owner

Or this.....

God, sorry.....must be really bored !

Rob