2007 Alfa Romeo 159

2007 Alfa Romeo 159

Overview

The 2007 Alfa Romeo 159, while celebrated for its striking Italian design and engaging driving dynamics, presents a mixed bag in terms of long-term reliability. Owners often praise its road presence and handling, but certain mechanical and electrical components have been noted for potential issues. This analysis focuses on documented common problems beyond standard maintenance, providing insights into areas that may require attention for owners of this model. Understanding these potential pitfalls can help in proactive maintenance and managing ownership costs.

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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 cleaning/replacement.
• Cost: $300 - $1200

EGR Valve Problems

• Symptoms: Rough idling, poor acceleration, black smoke from exhaust, engine warning light.
• Solution: Cleaning or replacement of the EGR valve.
• Cost: $200 - $500

2.4L JTDm Diesel

Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) Issues

• Symptoms: Illuminated DPF warning light, reduced engine power, increased fuel consumption.
• Solution: Forced regeneration or DPF cleaning/replacement.
• Cost: $300 - $1200

EGR Valve Problems

• Symptoms: Rough idling, poor acceleration, black smoke from exhaust, engine warning light.
• Solution: Cleaning or replacement of the EGR valve.
• Cost: $200 - $500

Turbocharger Issues

• Symptoms: Loss of power, whistling noises, black smoke, oil leaks.
• Solution: Repair or replacement of the turbocharger.
• Cost: $800 - $2000

1.9L TwinSpark Petrol

Camshaft/Cam Belt Issues

• Symptoms: Engine misfires, loss of power, potential catastrophic engine damage if belt breaks.
• Solution: Regular replacement of cam belt and associated components.
• Cost: $500 - $900

Ignition System Problems

• Symptoms: Misfires, rough idling, check engine light.
• Solution: Replacement of spark plugs, coils, or related sensors.
• Cost: $150 - $400

2.2L JTS Petrol

Timing Chain Issues

• Symptoms: Rattling noise from the engine, check engine light, potential for severe engine damage.
• Solution: Replacement of timing chain, tensioners, and guides.
• Cost: $700 - $1500

Transmission

Manual Transmission

Clutch Wear

• Symptoms: Slipping clutch, difficulty engaging gears, stiff pedal.
• Solution: Clutch replacement.
• Cost: $600 - $1200

Q-Tronic Automatic Transmission

Gear Selection Problems

• Symptoms: Hesitation or harshness during gear changes, failure to engage gears.
• Solution: Transmission fluid flush and filter change, or internal transmission repair.
• Cost: $300 - $1500

Suspension

Standard Chassis

Front Wishbone Bushings

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

Rear Spring Issues

• Symptoms: Sagging rear end, uneven ride height, potential for broken springs.
• Solution: Replacement of rear springs.
• Cost: $200 - $400

Electrical

Body Control Module (BCM)

Intermittent Faults

• Symptoms: Malfunctioning lights, power windows, central locking, dashboard warning lights.
• Solution: Diagnosis and potential reprogramming or replacement of the BCM.
• Cost: $500 - $1500

Sensor Failures

ABS/VDC Sensor Issues

• Symptoms: ABS and VDC warning lights illuminated, loss of ABS/traction control functionality.
• Solution: Replacement of faulty ABS wheel speed sensors.
• Cost: $150 - $300

Exterior

Body Panels

Rust Concerns

• Symptoms: Corrosion on wheel arches, sills, and door bottoms, particularly in areas with harsh winters.
• Solution: Rust treatment and repair, or panel replacement.
• Cost: $200 - $1000+

Headlight Condensation

Condensation Inside Headlights

• Symptoms: Moisture buildup inside headlight units, potentially affecting light output.
• Solution: Sealing headlight units or replacement.
• Cost: $100 - $500

Interior

Air Conditioning System

AC Compressor Failure

• Symptoms: Lack of cold air, unusual noises from the AC system.
• Solution: Replacement of the AC compressor and potentially a system flush.
• Cost: $600 - $1200

Electronic Climate Control

Climate Control Module Malfunctions

• Symptoms: Erratic temperature control, fan speed issues, non-responsive buttons.
• Solution: Diagnosis and potential replacement of the climate control module.
• Cost: $300 - $700

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Summary Verdict

The 2007 Alfa Romeo 159 offers a compelling blend of style and driving pleasure, but potential buyers should be aware of its reliability profile. Diesel variants, particularly the 2.4L, are prone to DPF and EGR issues, while petrol engines can suffer from timing chain or belt problems. Transmission reliability is generally average, with manual clutches and automatic gear selection being common wear points. Suspension components like wishbone bushings and rear springs may require attention. Electrical gremlins, especially related to the Body Control Module and sensors, are not uncommon. Exterior rust can be a concern in certain climates, and interior climate control systems may develop faults. Proactive maintenance and a thorough pre-purchase inspection are highly recommended for this model.