Alfa Romeo Problems

New life has been breathed into Alfa Romeo in Australia with the switch of control to the Italian head office; previously they were being brought in by a private importer. Price cuts and the introduction of new models have sparked buyer interest in new Alfas and Fiats.Sadly for sellers, but great news for buyers, the aforementioned change has resulted in lower prices on the used Alfa Romeo market.Though it’s supposedly just another mid-sized family car, the Italian designers of the Alfa Romeo 156 gave it plenty of verve in its design. Not only does it look great, the chassis has superb dynamics that appeal to those who really like to get out there and drive.Handling is what Italian cars are all about and the Alfa Romeo 156 doesn’t disappoint. It has a willingness to turn into a corner and once in there it has tenacious road grip. Steering is prompt and sharp and this car communicates to the driver as though it’s a sports machine.Few family sedans cry out to be taken for a run on your favourite bit of road early of a Sunday morning, but this Alfa Romeo just loves that sort of treatment.Despite looking like a sleek two-door coupe the Alfa 156 has four doors. The back doors are so well hidden that many don’t even realise they are there. The rear door handles are disguised as air extractor vents and we once had the experience of someone trying to get into the back of a 156 by squeezing in through the front doors.Once you’ve located the door handles, it’s reasonably easy to get into the back seat of the Alfa Romeo 156. However, the sporting heritage of the car’s shape shows up here and it doesn’t have the biggest of rear seats. Indeed the area back there is probably best left for children.The boot is also on the small side for a family car. The station wagon’s load area is a bit of a joke if you regard it as being a full wagon - but makes sense if you think of it as a coupe with an extended load area.Naturally, the Alfa wagon is much easier to load than the luggage area of a conventional two-door coupe. The Alfa Romeo 156 first arrived in Australia in February 1999 in sedan format with the station wagon being added in August 2000. In October 2003 the 156 got a major facelift that saw the traditional Alfa shield grille become considerably larger and stretching right down into the bumper. The tail was beefed out and a bit more brightwork added to the body.Power in the standard Alfa Romeo 156 range is provided by either a four-cylinder 2.0-litre or a 2.5-litre V6. The four-cylinder was upgraded to JTS specification midway through 2002 and we reckon it’s the one to buy. It not only has even more response, but also uses less fuel.In the usual Italian manner, the four-cylinder engine is the sporting unit aimed at the press-on driver, whereas the V6 is the luxury cruising unit. There is, of course, more acceleration from the V6 than the four, but the eagerness to work hard has been toned down.The Selespeed automated manual transmission used on many four-cylinder Alfa 156s, can be frustratingly slow and lumpy in the lower gears. We feel it’s better to buy a five-speed manual, but many have learnt to tolerate the Selespeed because they use their Alfa to commute in traffic. Try before you buy.The Alfa 156 V6 has a four-speed fully-automatic unit with semi-sequential options.An ultra-hot, very-expensive 156 GTA joined the range in August 2002. With a highly-tuned 3.2-litre V6, six-speed close-ratio manual box, bold body kit, big wheels tyres and brakes, it’s a real delight to drive. Look out for torque steer though, as it can try to take control of the wheel at times. The GTA didn’t sell all that well and was quietly discontinued in Australia in June 2004.Alfa Romeo is firmly established in Australia and there are a reasonable number of dealers. As is often the way with European cars, dealers tend to be concentrated in the major population centres and scarce in the bush.Servicing and spare parts prices are about average for this class. You can do some of the routine, non-safety items yourself but the engine bay is crowded and skinned knuckles aren’t unusual. Insurance can be expensive so make inquiries before falling head-over-heels in love with this Italian machine.Alfa Romeo 156 was replaced by the Alfa 159 in June 2006. The 159 is significantly larger so its introduction didn’t have the usual adverse affect on resale values that often occurs when a new model supersedes an old.New-generation Alfa Romeos are better built than the older models, however, we still see the occasional rough one, so be careful. We recommend that you always call on a professional before buying a car like this, although you can weed out the obvious duds by doing some initial checks yourself.A car like the Alfa Romeo 156 can fall into the hands of hard drivers because their very nature means they cry out to be driven to extremes at times. Signs of hard driving include severe wear on the tyres and lots of brake dust on the inside of the wheels and on the suspension inside of the guards.Look for body repairs; most easily spotted by mismatched paint on adjacent body panels, uneven gaps between panels, paint overspray on non-painted parts and ripples in what should be smooth metal.Make sure the engine starts easily and idles smoothly from the moment it gets going. Naturally the V6 will be smoother than the four, but the latter shouldn’t be rough.Engine performance from the 2.0-litre Twin Spark unit isn't great, but if it seems below par the engine could be suspect.A manual gearbox that isn't light in its action could be due for repairs. Do some fast changes from third down to second and feel for a reluctance to shift, or for funny noises.During your road test look for steering that wanders and feel for brakes that don't pull the car up evenly.Sports sedans don’t always get driven in a sporting manner, but it can be hard to pick which has received harsh treatment. A professional inspection should be regarded as essential. 

Alfa Romeo is famed for making great looking sports coupes and few have ever looked better than the sensational Alfa Romeo Brera that was introduced to Australia in June 2006. As well as looking pretty it was also pretty expensive as the importer at the time was charing top dollar for everything. Sales weren’t as high as they could have been.Imports of Alfa Romeo cars are now directly in the hands of the factory and serious price cuts on many Alfa Romeo models have been carried out. Unfortunately, the Brera didn’t survive the Australia takeover, probably because it was getting on in years, and the final imports arrived downunder early in 2012. Though they may not have been sold and registered until well into the year.Brera has styling by Italian automotive legend Giorgietto Giugiaro and was displayed at the 2002 Geneva Motor Show. Interest was so great that Alfa Romeo Centro Stile, the company’s own styling department, worked with Giugiaro to develop the stunning coupe that finally went on sale.A further legendary Italian automotive name comes into the equation as well, for the Brera bodies are built by the coachbuilding company Pininfarina. In Australia, the Brera was sold in two versions; the four-cylinder 2.2-litre JTS 136 kW engine and the top level Brera JTS, a V6 3.2-litre boasting 191 kW.Alfa’s V6 engine is interesting in that it’s based on the V6 block manufactured by Holden in Australia, before being shipped back to Italy for further worldwide on-selling. Alfa likes to point out that the rest of the engine, the parts they say give it soul, are all by Alfa Romeo and are made in Italy.You get more than simply two extra cylinders when you opt for the V6 engine, because you also receive Alfa Romeo’s all-wheel drive system tagged Q4. This has a self-locking Torsen centre differential virtually eliminates the understeer which is a bugbear in some all-wheel drive vehicles. It gives this Alfa Romeo the feeling of a rear-drive car, but with a lot more road grip when things get hard.Six-speed manual gearboxes are standard on both Brera models and work pretty well considering the gearbox is alongside the engine and therefore a fair way from the gearlever.The Brera retains some of Alfa’s traditional idiosyncrasies, such as seats that do not locate the driver’s body as well as they could during hard cornering. Then there are the less than perfectly placed pedals. Having to hold the steering wheel for support when lifting the left foot to operate the clutch pedal detracts from the driving experience.This Alfa is quite a large coupe, but interior volume isn’t one of its strong points. Back seat room is scarce and best left to the kids. Trouble is that the high window line makes it hard for the little ones to see out. But, let's be fair on the car, this is a coupe and therefore really only intended for one or two good friends.Boot space is fine for a car in this class and unless the luggage is on the bulky side you can fit a fair bit in there.The newly revitalised Alfa Romeo organisation is working well in Australia. With a significant number of new dealers being appointed and an emphasis on customer support. Check in your local area to see what’s happening in your neighbourhood.As you would expect in a car in this class most of the dealer are in metro areas, though some country cities and towns have specialists in European, even just Italian, cars.We haven’t heard of any real complaints about hold up and/or price gouging on Alfa Romeo Brera. Keep in mind this was a $100k car in its early years here and expect to be charged accordingly.Though all Alfa Romeo models tend to be seen as sports models by insurance companies premiums aren’t unacceptably high. It pays to shop around as there’s quite a difference from high to low, as always be sure to compare apples with apples.WHAT TO LOOK FORBuild quality is reasonably good, but certainly not to the standards of the Japan, or even latter-day Korean cars.Once upon a time you could say that parts that didn’t fit as well as they should have done gave the car character. Though they aren’t as common as before it’s still wise to call in a professional early in the buying process.Before doing so you may care to test a Brera on rough sealed roads and listen for things that go squeak or rattle in the night.Engines are generally long lasting, but hard-driving enthusiasts may have thrashed them. Be sure an engine starts easily and idles smoothly, the V6 should be all put imperceptible at idle once it’s warmed up.Watch for black smoke from the exhaust when the Alfa is put under load, and when it’s accelerated suddenly after idling for a minute or so.Check a manual gearbox is quiet and smooth in its operation.Feel for a clutch that’s sticky.Automatics are generally OK, but be wary of one that’s too willing to jump from gear to gear. Conversely, an auto that is relocation to change ratios could also be a worry.Crash repairs. Ah, crash repairs. Alfas have been known to run into things. Look and feel for body panels that aren’t regular in their shape. Check for paint that doesn’t match from panel to panel. Tiny spots of paint on parts such as glass and badges probably indicate the car has visited a spray painter at some time in the past.CAR BUYING TIPCar clubs are an excellent source of information on cars that are often owned by enthusiasts. Try the internet or for lists of clubs in car magazines.

As winter fades and summer fast approaches thoughts often turn to open-top cars and convertibles. For some there's nothing better than cruising around in an open car with the roof down.NEWFor those the selection of makes and models of open cars has never been greater. Most carmakers offer at least one convertible, some more than one. The Italian carmaker, Alfa Romeo has always offered convertibles, they're part of the company's DNA.The Spider has been a long and well-established model in the Alfa range and the company launched a new car in 2006, which was based on the Brera coupe. Like all Alfas the Spider is high on style and is packed with the flair that only comes with Italian cars.Two models were launched in 2006, the 2.2-litre four-cylinder JTS and the 3.2-litre V6 JTS. Both had performance-oriented engines boasting continuously variable valve timing and efficient direct injection.They each had six-speed manual gearboxes with the option of a six-speed auto; the smaller engine model was front-wheel drive, while the V6 had permanent all-wheel drive. While the engines deliver the punch expected of a sports car the chassis delivers the handling that allows it to be fully exploited.With double wishbone front suspension and a new multi-link rear suspension the Spider offers the sort of balanced handling and responsive steering to make open-road cruising the enjoyable experience it should be.The power soft top can be raised and lowered quickly and efficiently so you're never caught in a downpour. Inside the driver and passenger are accommodated in supportive, comfortable seats, the controls are nicely laid out within easy reach of the driver.Without a spare wheel the boot is quite large. On the road the Spider delivers the sort of driving experience expected of a sports car with the sort of heritage Alfa possesses.NOWAlfas, like most Italian cars, can be most alluring. They're stylish, make the right sort of noises and ache for the open road, but history says they can be troublesome.There was a period through the 1970s and '80s when Italian cars were slapped together by people who didn't seem to care, and the people who bought them suffered the consequence. They were poorly built, generally unreliable and rust was a major issue.Thankfully that's in the past and the cars are much better built, more reliable and rust doesn't appear to be a problem now, but there remains a suspicion that affects the reputations of all but the most exotic Italian brands and Alfa is one of them.It not only affects the new car sales of the brand, but also the resale and that needs to be appreciated and understood by anyone thinking of buying one. It's a good idea to find an Alfa specialist to service your chosen car, as they tend to be less expensive and have a genuine enthusiasm for the brand.Check the operation of the roof, which should be go up and down smoothly. Some owners complain that it doesn't, and there are reports of the lining inside the well where the roof is stored when lowered comes away preventing the roof from fully lowering.In 2009 there was a recall of 3.2-litre Spiders equipped with automatic transmissions to correct a problem that resulted in the brake pedal being stiff when pressed the first few times after a cold start. Examine the service record to see that your potential choice has been maintained as it should be and that it has been done by a creditable service outlet, preferably one familiar with the brand.SMITHY SAYSA stylish and thoroughly enjoyable and reliable sports car that's perfect for summer cruising.Alfa Romeo Spider 2006-2011Price new: $76,950 to $100,950Engine: 2.2-litre, 4-cylinder, 136 kW/230 Nm; 3.2-litre, V6, 191 kW/322 NmTransmission: 6-speed manual, 6-speed auto, FWD, AWDEconomy: 9.4 L/100 km (2.2), 11.5 L/100 km (V6)Body: 2-door convertibleVariants: 2.2 JTS, 3.2 JTS V6Safety: ABS, Traction Control, ESPCOMING UPDo you own a BMW 1-Series? If so tell us what you think of it by sending your comments to Graham Smith at grah.smith@bigpond.com or Carsguide, PO Box 4245, Sydney 

It was clear that the 147 was different from the rest the moment you slipped into the driver's seat.The seat was heavily contoured for support, it had long cushions for extra support under the legs, the gearshift fell easily to hand and there was a sporty feel to the dash and controls. Once you hit the road the responsive engine and the nimble chassis came into play in a most rewarding way. In short the 147 was a fun car to drive. It was also an attractive one with its distinctive Alfa grille, bonnet and headlamps, and nicely sculpted flanks. The high flanks, thick pillars and large centre headrest in the rear did, however, make rear vision a problem.There were three and five-door hatch body styles; the five-door was the more practical with better access to the cabin. The main engine was a 2.0-litre Twin Spark four-cylinder that gave it plenty of zip. It was available with a five-speed manual gearbox or a five-speed clutchless automated manual shift Selespeed 'box. The hotshot GTA was released in 2003 and it was powered by a 3.2- litre V6 and the choice of six-speed manual or six-speed Selespeed gearboxes. The downside was fuel economy.For economy Alfa added a 2.0-litre turbo diesel four-cylinder in 2006.IN THE SHOPOlder Alfas developed such an awful reputation for reliability, rust and resale that current models like the 147 are still viewed with suspicion. Today's models are better built and more reliable, but they must still be checked thoroughly, preferably by an Alfa expert. Engine, transmission and cooling system leaks are common, and brake pads and rotors wear at a high rate. The cam-timing belt on the 2.0-litre must be changed at the recommended 3-year/60,000 km intervals, there's a real risk of internal engine damage should a belt break. The diesel belt must be changed at 5-year/150,000 km intervals. Thoroughly test-drive the Selespeed transmission to assess its operation, walk away if there's any indication that all is not well as repairs can be expensive. The manual is a much better buy from cost and driver enjoyment perspectives. Maintenance is crucial so check for a service historyIN A CRASHEven the base model had dual front airbags and side airbags in 2001; it also had the important safety feature of electronic stability control. But when tested by ANCAP it was only given a disappointing 3-star rating.UNDER THE PUMPThe 2.0-litre Twin Spark manual returns an average of 7.2L/100km, when linked to the Selespeed it consumes about a litre more. The 3.2-litre GTA hot shot is the fuel guzzler of the range with an average claimed consumption of 12.1L/100km, while the diesel is the fuel miser with an average of 5.9L/100km.SPECSPrice new: $38,500 to $41,500Engines: 2.0-litre 4-cylinder petrol, 110 kW/181 Nm; 3.2-litre V6 petrol, 184 kW/300 Nm; 2.0-litre turbo diesel, 110 kW/305 NmTransmissions: 5-speed manual, 5-speed Selespeed, 6-speed manual, 6- speed SelespeedEconomy: 7.2 L/100 km (Twin Spark), 7.8 L/100 km (Selespeed), 12.1 L/ 100 km (GTA), 5.9 L/100 km (JTD)Body: 3-door hatch, 5-door hatchVariants: Twin Spark, Selespeed, GTA, JTDSafety: 3-star ANCAPVERDICT Thoroughly engaging car to drive but best left to the believers.

Alfa Romeo is undergoing a major resurgence in Australia, one that began midway through 2012 when the Italian factory took control here; previously a private importer did that job.

Few badges polarize opinions like Alfa Romeo; it's one of those brands you either love or loathe, either way it's usually with a passion. Most people acknowledge that Alfas look great and deliver an engaging drive experience like few others, but just as many would say they wouldn't buy one because of the brand's reputation for poor quality and unreliability. It's fair to say that the company has worked hard to lift its game in recent times to put that reputation behind them, but despite that there remains a lingering doubt about its success at eradicating the things that can make its cars frustrating to own. The mid-sized 159 arrived in 2006 with the promise that the woes of the past were indeed in the past. Like all Alfas it looked like sex on wheels. Few carmakers produce more attractive cars than Alfa and the 159 was no exception with its timeless athletic lines. Buyers could choose between a four-door sedan and a wagon, there was a choice of two diesels and two petrol engines, and front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive. The 159 is a driver's car, which is obvious when you slide into the body-hugging driver's seat and survey the dash and controls. Like the exterior, the cabin is also a design delight, with instruments nicely placed and easily read, and the controls spread around in a way that is logical and makes them easy to use. The front seats, however, won't be for everyone. While supportive, their heavily contoured shape will suit some bodies, but not others. While seated behind the wheel the limited visibility becomes clear. The high tail and thick pillars make vision from the driver's seat an issue, one that drivers need to come to terms with. IN THE SHOPRusted on Alfa owners are willing to accept things in their cars that others simply wouldn't tolerate. Committed owners are prepared to write them off as 'character', others say they are character building. Anyone not familiar with Alfas should approach the 159 with caution to make sure they aren't left driving a car they can't stand. But don't be deterred, as the 159 is generally reliable with no major flaws. Those things that detract from its appeal are a result of variable build quality. Have an Alfa specialist check over any potential purchase, they will be familiar with the issues that can affect a 159. Sloppy build quality can result in rattles and squeaks in the body and trim that can be hard to find and eliminate. They can also be expensive to fix. Also check over the interior trim, looking for bits and pieces that are poised to fall off. On the road the diesel engine can be noisy, not a problem, just something you need to accept and live with. The ride can be firm, too firm for some, so make sure you're happy to live with that day to day. Like all modern cars servicing is crucial, so look for a service record to confirm that all maintenance has been done according to the book, and preferably done by an experienced Alfa mechanic.IN A CRASHA 5-star tick of approval from ANCAP says it all, the 159 is a safe car. It comes with front, side and head airbags along with ABS braking, traction control and stability control.UNDER THE PUMPWith a choice of diesel and petrol engines 159 buyers have plenty to choose from. The diesels are the best pump performers, both getting around 7.0 L/100 km, while the V6 is the thirstiest of the bunch at more than 11 L/100 km.AT A GLANCE Price new: $55,990 to $77,990Engine: 2.2-litre 4-cylinder petrol, 2.0-litre 4-cylinder turbodiesel, 2.4-litre 5-cylinder turbodiesel, 3.2-litre V6 petrol Power/torque: 136 kW/230 Nm (2.2), 110 kW/320 Nm (2.0TD), 147 kW/400 Nm (2.4TD), 191 kW/322 Nm (V6)Transmission: 6-speed manual, 6-speed auto, front-wheel drive, all-wheel drive.Economy: 6.8 L/100 km (2.4TD), 7.1 L/100 km (2.0 TD), 9.4 L/100 km (2.2), 11.5 L/100 km (V6) Body: 4-door sedan, 4-door wagonVariants: Base, TiSafety: 5-star ANCAP

Ewan Kennedy road tests and reviews the used Alfa Romeo 166 1999-2009.