2003 Alfa Romeo 147

The 2003 Alfa Romeo 147 is a stylish and sporty compact hatchback that offered a unique blend of Italian flair and driving dynamics. Common engine options included the 1.6L Twin Spark, 2.0L Twin Spark, and the 1.9L JTD diesel. The 2.0L Twin Spark engine produces around 150 horsepower and 133 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options were a 5-speed manual and a Selespeed automated manual. Owners typically praise the 147 for its sharp handling, distinctive styling, and engaging driving experience. However, it is often criticized for its reliability issues, electrical gremlins, and relatively high maintenance costs.

Engine

1.6L Twin Spark

• Variable Valve Timing (VVT) Variator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: A rattling noise from the engine on startup, especially when cold. This is due to a failing VVT variator. Can lead to reduced engine performance and potential engine damage if left untreated.
  • Solution: Replacement of the VVT variator and timing belt kit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Coil Pack Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Misfires, rough idling, loss of power, and the engine management light illuminating. Often caused by faulty ignition coils.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty coil pack(s). It’s often recommended to replace all coil packs at the same time for preventative maintenance.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

2.0L Twin Spark

• Variable Valve Timing (VVT) Variator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Identical to the 1.6L Twin Spark; a rattling noise on startup, reduced performance.
  • Solution: Replacement of the VVT variator and timing belt kit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Coil Pack Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Misfires, rough idling, loss of power, and engine management light.
  • Solution: Replacement of faulty coil pack(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Throttle Body Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Erratic idling, stalling, and poor throttle response. Often caused by a dirty or faulty throttle body.
  • Solution: Cleaning or replacement of the throttle body.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

1.9L JTD Diesel

• EGR Valve Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Reduced engine performance, excessive smoke, rough idling, and engine management light illuminating. Caused by a clogged or faulty EGR valve.
  • Solution: Cleaning or replacement of the EGR valve.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• MAF Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Reduced power, poor fuel economy, and engine management light.
  • Solution: Replacement of the MAF sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $250+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Manual

• Clutch Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Slipping clutch, difficulty shifting gears, high clutch pedal engagement point.
  • Solution: Clutch kit replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Selespeed Automated Manual

• Selespeed System Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, complete transmission failure, warning lights on the dashboard, and the system may be unable to engage gears at all. Can be caused by issues with the hydraulic pump, accumulator, or the sensors within the Selespeed system.
  • Solution: Diagnosis and repair of the Selespeed system. This may involve replacing the hydraulic pump, accumulator, sensors, or even the entire Selespeed unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2000+ (depending on the specific issue)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front Wishbone Bushings
  • Description/Symptoms: Knocking noises from the front suspension, especially when going over bumps. Reduced handling precision.
  • Solution: Replacement of the front wishbone bushings or the entire wishbones.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Dashboard Display Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Pixels missing on the dashboard display, making it difficult to read information.
  • Solution: Replacement or repair of the dashboard display unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Window Regulator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Windows failing to go up or down, or moving erratically.
  • Solution: Replacement of the window regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Central Locking Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Central locking system failing to lock or unlock doors, intermittent operation.
  • Solution: Diagnosis and repair of the central locking system. This may involve replacing the central locking actuator, door lock mechanism, or wiring harness.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust on the Sill
  • Description/Symptoms: Corrosion and rust can occur on the sill of the vehicle.
  • Solution: Removal of the corrosion and rust, and replacement with body filler.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sticky Dashboard
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners report that the dashboard material can become sticky or tacky to the touch over time.
  • Solution: Cleaning the dashboard or replacement of the dashboard.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2003 Alfa Romeo 147, while offering a sporty and stylish driving experience, is prone to several issues. Engine problems like VVT variator and coil pack failures are common across the petrol engines. The Selespeed transmission can be particularly problematic and expensive to repair. Electrical gremlins and suspension wear are also frequent concerns. While individual repair costs may vary, the cumulative effect of these issues can make the 147 a relatively high-maintenance vehicle. The severity of the issues range from moderate (coil pack failure) to severe (Selespeed transmission failure) impacting both running costs and overall reliability.