2004 Alfa Romeo 147

2004 Alfa Romeo 147

Overview

The 2004 Alfa Romeo 147, a popular Italian compact car, offered a blend of sporty styling and engaging driving dynamics. While generally appreciated for its design and handling, like many vehicles of its era, it had certain areas that required attention from an ownership perspective. This analysis focuses on common technical reliability concerns reported by owners and technicians, excluding routine maintenance. Understanding these potential issues can help prospective and current owners budget for and address specific problems, ensuring the longevity and enjoyment of their 147.

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Engine

1.9L JTDm Diesel

Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) Issues

• Symptoms: Illuminated DPF warning light, reduced engine power, increased fuel consumption.
• Solution: Forced regeneration or DPF replacement.
• Cost: $500 - $1500

Turbocharger Failure

• Symptoms: Loss of power, whistling noises from the engine bay, black smoke from the exhaust.
• Solution: Turbocharger repair or replacement.
• Cost: $800 - $2000

1.6L Twin Spark Petrol

Camshaft Variator Failure

• Symptoms: Rattling noise on startup, particularly when cold, loss of low-end torque.
• Solution: Replacement of the camshaft variator unit.
• Cost: $300 - $600

Ignition System Issues

• Symptoms: Misfires, rough idling, check engine light.
• Solution: Replacement of spark plugs, ignition coils, or related wiring.
• Cost: $200 - $500

2.0L Twin Spark Petrol

Camshaft Variator Failure

• Symptoms: Rattling noise on startup, particularly when cold, loss of low-end torque.
• Solution: Replacement of the camshaft variator unit.
• Cost: $300 - $600

Ignition System Issues

• Symptoms: Misfires, rough idling, check engine light.
• Solution: Replacement of spark plugs, ignition coils, or related wiring.
• Cost: $200 - $500

Transmission

Manual Gearbox

Clutch Wear

• Symptoms: Slipping clutch, difficulty engaging gears, heavy clutch pedal.
• Solution: Clutch kit replacement (clutch disc, pressure plate, release bearing).
• Cost: $600 - $1200

Selespeed (Automated Manual)

Hydraulic System Leaks/Pump Failure

• Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, error messages on the dashboard, pump running constantly.
• Solution: Repair or replacement of hydraulic pump, accumulator, or lines.
• Cost: $1000 - $2500

Sensor Malfunctions

• Symptoms: Erratic gear changes, inability to select gears, ‘Check Selespeed’ warning.
• Solution: Replacement of faulty sensors (e.g., gear position sensor).
• Cost: $300 - $700

Suspension

Standard Chassis

Front Wishbone Bushings

• Symptoms: Clunking noises over bumps, vague steering feel, uneven tire wear.
• Solution: Replacement of worn wishbone bushings or complete wishbone assembly.
• Cost: $300 - $600

Rear Shock Absorbers

• Symptoms: Bouncy ride, poor handling, visible leaks from shock absorbers.
• Solution: Replacement of rear shock absorbers.
• Cost: $250 - $500

Electrical

Body Control Module (BCM)

BCM Malfunctions

• Symptoms: Intermittent issues with lights, wipers, central locking, or dashboard warnings.
• Solution: Diagnosis and potential reprogramming or replacement of the BCM.
• Cost: $500 - $1200

Window Regulators

Window Regulator Failure

• Symptoms: Power windows not working, window stuck in position, grinding noises.
• Solution: Replacement of the window regulator mechanism.
• Cost: $200 - $400

Exterior

Body Panels & Paint

Rust on Wheel Arches and Sills

• Symptoms: Visible corrosion and bubbling paintwork, particularly on older models.
• Solution: Rust removal and repair, repainting.
• Cost: $400 - $1000+

Headlight Lenses

Clouding/Yellowing of Headlights

• Symptoms: Reduced light output, poor aesthetics.
• Solution: Headlight restoration or replacement.
• Cost: $100 - $300

Interior

Air Conditioning System

AC Compressor Failure

• Symptoms: No cold air, unusual noises from the AC system.
• Solution: Replacement of the AC compressor and potentially a system flush.
• Cost: $700 - $1500

Dashboard Warning Lights

Intermittent ABS/Airbag Lights

• Symptoms: Illuminated ABS or Airbag warning lights on the dashboard.
• Solution: Diagnosis of sensor faults (wheel speed sensors, seat occupancy sensors) or wiring issues.
• Cost: $200 - $600

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Summary Verdict

The 2004 Alfa Romeo 147, while a stylish and enjoyable car to drive, exhibits some common reliability concerns typical of its age and Italian automotive heritage. Owners should be particularly aware of potential issues with the DPF on diesel models, the camshaft variator and ignition systems on Twin Spark petrol engines, and the complex Selespeed transmission. Suspension components like wishbone bushings and electrical gremlins, especially related to the Body Control Module, are also areas that may require attention. While rust can be a concern on older examples, most other issues are repairable with proper diagnosis and maintenance. Overall, the 147 requires a more attentive owner than some of its German or Japanese rivals, but rewards with a unique driving experience.