2007 Alfa Romeo Spider

Here’s a breakdown of common issues reported for the 2007 Alfa Romeo Spider, organized by category and component, as requested. The 2007 Alfa Romeo Spider is a stylish convertible known for its Italian flair and engaging driving experience. This model year was available with a 2.2-liter inline-4 cylinder engine producing around 185 horsepower and 169 lb-ft of torque, and a 3.2-liter V6 engine producing around 255 horsepower and 229 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were primarily paired with a 6-speed manual transmission, although some markets offered an automatic option with the V6. Owners often praise the Spider’s attractive design and responsive handling, but common complaints revolve around reliability, particularly with electrical components, and the availability of replacement parts.

Engine

2.2L Inline-4 Cylinder

• Timing Chain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling noise, particularly on start-up or at idle. Can lead to engine misfires and eventually, engine damage if not addressed.
  • Solution: Replacement of the timing chain, tensioners, and guides.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1200 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil spots under the car, burning oil smell, low oil levels. Leaks often occur around the valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket, or crankshaft seal.
  • Solution: Replacement of the leaking gasket or seal.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ depending on location
  • Recalls: None Found

3.2L V6 Cylinder

• Thermostat Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine overheating or running cold, fluctuating temperature gauge.
  • Solution: Replacement of the thermostat.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Intake Manifold Swirl Flap Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Reduced engine performance, rough idling, check engine light. The swirl flaps within the intake manifold can become stuck or break.
  • Solution: Replacement of the intake manifold.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Manual Transmission

• Synchro Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting into certain gears, grinding noises when shifting, particularly into 2nd or 3rd gear.
  • Solution: Transmission rebuild or replacement of worn synchronizers.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Clutch Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clutch slippage, difficulty engaging gears, clutch pedal feels soft or spongy.
  • Solution: Replacement of the clutch disc, pressure plate, and throw-out bearing.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1800+
  • Recalls: None Found

6-Speed Automatic Transmission (Aisin Warner)

• Valve Body Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh shifting, delayed engagement, slipping between gears, transmission fault codes. The valve body controls hydraulic pressure within the transmission and can wear out over time.
  • Solution: Valve body replacement or rebuild.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Control Arm Bushing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the front or rear suspension, imprecise handling, excessive tire wear.
  • Solution: Replacement of the control arm bushings or entire control arms.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+ per side
  • Recalls: None Found
• Shock Absorber Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, poor handling, visible oil leaks on the shock absorbers.
  • Solution: Replacement of the shock absorbers.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1200+ per pair
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Convertible Top Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The convertible top fails to operate, makes unusual noises, or moves slowly.
  • Solution: Replacement of the convertible top motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Window Regulator Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Windows moving slowly, getting stuck, or failing to operate.
  • Solution: Replacement of the window regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ per window
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sensor Failures (ABS, MAF, O2)
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light, ABS warning light, poor engine performance, stalling, or incorrect readings.
  • Solution: Diagnosis and replacement of the faulty sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ per sensor depending on sensor type
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Door Handle Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The door handle breaks or becomes difficult to use.
  • Solution: Replacement of the door handle.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+ per handle
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sticky Interior Trim
  • Description/Symptoms: The soft-touch plastic trim on the dashboard, center console, and door panels becomes sticky or gummy. This is a common issue in many Italian cars from this era due to the degradation of the plastic coating.
  • Solution: Removal of the sticky coating or replacement of the affected trim pieces.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200+ to refinish individual parts, or significantly more to replace entire panels.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks forming in the dashboard, particularly in areas exposed to direct sunlight.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the dashboard.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2007 Alfa Romeo Spider, while beautiful and fun to drive, is prone to a number of reliability issues. Electrical problems, suspension component wear, and engine issues are common. The “sticky trim” issue is a widespread cosmetic problem. The severity of these issues ranges from minor inconveniences to potentially expensive repairs. Prospective buyers should carefully inspect the car, paying particular attention to the convertible top, suspension components, and engine for any signs of trouble. Having a pre-purchase inspection by a mechanic familiar with Alfa Romeos is highly recommended. The cost of ownership can be high due to maintenance and repairs.