2007 Alfa Romeo 147

The 2007 Alfa Romeo 147 is a stylish and sporty hatchback known for its engaging driving dynamics and distinctive Italian design. It was available with a range of petrol and diesel engines. While it offered a unique and enjoyable driving experience, the 147 has also been known to suffer from a number of reliability issues. Common complaints include electrical problems, suspension wear, and issues with specific engine and transmission configurations. People often appreciate the Alfa 147 for its handling, attractive styling, and relatively affordable price point. However, they frequently dislike its reliability, running costs, and the potential for expensive repairs.

Engine

1.6L Twin Spark Petrol

• Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive oil consumption, often leading to low oil levels and potential engine damage if not monitored.
  • Solution: Replacing valve stem seals, piston rings, or ultimately a full engine rebuild.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Variable Valve Timing (VVT) Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling noises from the engine, especially on startup, and reduced performance. Can also cause the engine to stall.
  • Solution: Replacing the VVT actuator (variator).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

2.0L Twin Spark Petrol

• Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive oil consumption, leading to low oil levels and potential engine damage.
  • Solution: Replacing valve stem seals, piston rings, or engine rebuild.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Variable Valve Timing (VVT) Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling noises from the engine on startup, reduced performance, potential stalling.
  • Solution: Replacing the VVT actuator (variator).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

1.9L JTD Diesel

• EGR Valve Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Reduced power, rough idling, excessive black smoke, and engine warning light.
  • Solution: Cleaning or replacing the EGR valve.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Swirl Flap Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Swirl flaps in the intake manifold can break and cause engine damage, reduced performance, rough idle, and engine warning light.
  • Solution: Replacing the intake manifold or deleting the swirl flaps.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

Selespeed Automated Manual

• Hydraulic Pump Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, failure to engage gears, warning lights on the dashboard.
  • Solution: Replacing the hydraulic pump.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Accumulator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Similar to pump failure: shifting problems, failure to engage gears, and warning lights.
  • Solution: Replacing the accumulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front Wishbone Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Knocking noises from the front suspension, especially when going over bumps, and vague steering.
  • Solution: Replacing the worn wishbones (control arms).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ (per side)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear Trailing Arm Bushings Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Knocking noises from the rear suspension, poor handling, and uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replacing the rear trailing arm bushings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+ (per side)
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Dashboard Warning Lights
  • Description/Symptoms: Illumination of various warning lights (ABS, airbag, engine management) with no apparent cause. Often caused by sensor failures or wiring issues.
  • Solution: Diagnosing the cause of the warning light and repairing or replacing the faulty sensor or wiring.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $500+ (depending on the cause)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Window Regulator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Windows failing to operate properly, often getting stuck or making grinding noises.
  • Solution: Replacing the window regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+ (per window)
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust formation in various areas, particularly around the wheel arches, sills, and door bottoms.
  • Solution: Repairing and repainting the affected areas.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $2000+ (depending on the severity)
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Airbag Warning Light
  • Description/Symptoms: Airbag warning light illuminating due to faulty seat occupancy sensors or wiring issues.
  • Solution: Diagnosing the cause and repairing or replacing the faulty sensor or wiring.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Dashboard Pixelation
  • Description/Symptoms: Missing or faded pixels in the instrument cluster display, making it difficult to read information.
  • Solution: Replacing the instrument cluster or repairing the display.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary:

The 2007 Alfa Romeo 147, while a stylish and enjoyable car to drive, is known for several common issues. Engine problems include oil consumption and VVT actuator failure in the petrol engines, and EGR valve and swirl flap issues in the diesel engine. The Selespeed transmission can be problematic. Suspension wear, electrical glitches, and rust are also frequent concerns. The severity of these issues can range from minor inconveniences to costly repairs, potentially impacting the ownership experience significantly.