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2004 Alfa Romeo 147

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By Research the Car 5 min read

The 2004 Alfa Romeo 147 is a stylish and sporty hatchback known for its distinctive Italian design and engaging driving dynamics. It was offered with a range of engines, including the 1.6L Twin Spark (105 hp), 1.6L Twin Spark (120 hp), 2.0L Twin Spark (150 hp), and the 1.9L JTD diesel engine (100-150 hp, depending on the specific version). It was available with a 5-speed manual transmission and the Selespeed automated manual transmission. Owners often praise its sharp handling, attractive styling, and comfortable interior. Common complaints include reliability issues, particularly with electrical components, and the cost of maintenance and repairs.

Engine

1.6L Twin Spark (105hp & 120hp)

  • Variable Valve Timing (VVT) Actuator Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, loss of power, engine stalling, and the check engine light illuminating. A rattling noise may be audible from the engine.
    • Solution: Replacing the VVT actuator and potentially the solenoid.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Mass Airflow Sensor (MAF) Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Poor fuel economy, rough idling, hesitation during acceleration, and the check engine light illuminating.
    • Solution: Replacing the MAF sensor.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300
    • Recalls: None Found

2.0L Twin Spark (150hp)

  • Variable Valve Timing (VVT) Actuator Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Similar to the 1.6L, rough idling, loss of power, engine stalling, and the check engine light illuminating. A rattling noise may be audible from the engine.
    • Solution: Replacing the VVT actuator and potentially the solenoid.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Throttle Body Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Erratic idling, hesitation, and potential engine stalling. This is often due to carbon buildup.
    • Solution: Cleaning the throttle body or replacing it if cleaning doesn’t resolve the issue.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $300+
    • Recalls: None Found

1.9L JTD Diesel (100-150hp)

  • EGR Valve Problems
    • Description/Symptoms: Reduced power, excessive black smoke, rough idling, and the check engine light illuminating.
    • Solution: Cleaning or replacing the EGR valve.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Turbocharger Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, excessive smoke, and a whining noise from the turbocharger.
    • Solution: Replacing or rebuilding the turbocharger.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Manual

  • Clutch Wear and Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Clutch slippage, difficulty shifting gears, and a high clutch pedal engagement point.
    • Solution: Replacing the clutch disc, pressure plate, and potentially the flywheel.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Synchro Wear
    • Description/Symptoms: Grinding noise when shifting gears, particularly when shifting quickly. Most common in 2nd and 3rd gear.
    • Solution: Transmission rebuild or replacement.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Selespeed Automated Manual

  • Selespeed Actuator Problems
    • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, warning lights on the dashboard, and potential inability to select gears. The Selespeed system relies on a hydraulic actuator to control the clutch and gear selection, which can fail over time.
    • Solution: Repair or replacement of the Selespeed actuator.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000 - $3000+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Hydraulic Pump Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The Selespeed system relies on a hydraulic pump to maintain pressure. Failure can lead to slow or non-existent gear changes.
    • Solution: Replacement of the hydraulic pump.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

  • Front Upper Wishbone Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Knocking or creaking noises from the front suspension, particularly when going over bumps. Can also lead to imprecise steering.
    • Solution: Replacing the upper wishbones (control arms).
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+ per side
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Rear Suspension Bushing Wear
    • Description/Symptoms: Vague handling, rear end sway, and knocking noises from the rear suspension.
    • Solution: Replacing worn rear suspension bushings.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
    • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

  • Dashboard Illumination Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent or complete failure of dashboard lights and displays.
    • Solution: Repairing or replacing the instrument cluster.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Central Locking System Malfunctions
    • Description/Symptoms: Doors not locking or unlocking properly, remote key not working, and false alarms.
    • Solution: Diagnosing and repairing the central locking system, which may involve replacing door lock actuators or the central locking control module.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
    • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

  • Rust
    • Description/Symptoms: Surface rust developing on the lower body panels, wheel arches, and around door seams.
    • Solution: Repairing rusted panels, applying rust treatment, and repainting.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+ per panel, depending on severity.
    • Recalls: None Found

Interior

  • Sticky Dashboard
    • Description/Symptoms: The dashboard can become sticky or tacky to the touch, particularly in warmer climates. This is due to a chemical reaction with the dashboard material.
    • Solution: Some owners attempt to clean the dashboard with specialized products, while others opt to have it professionally recovered.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $500+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Airbag Warning Light
    • Description/Symptoms: Airbag warning light constantly illuminated. Often due to faulty connectors under the seats.
    • Solution: Resoldering/replacing connectors or replacing the airbag control module if necessary.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $500+
    • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2004 Alfa Romeo 147, while a stylish and enjoyable car to drive, is prone to a number of issues that can be costly to repair. The engine and transmission, particularly the Selespeed system, have potential problems. Suspension components are also known to wear out. Electrical gremlins are common. Rust is a concern as well. Potential buyers should be aware of these issues and factor in higher-than-average maintenance and repair costs. The severity of these issues ranges from minor inconveniences to major mechanical failures. The cost of repairs can vary widely depending on the specific problem and the availability of parts.

Alfa Romeo, 147
Alfa Romeo 147 2004
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