2008 Alfa Romeo 159

The 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 is a stylish and well-regarded compact executive car known for its distinctive Italian design and engaging driving dynamics. Available engines include a range of gasoline and diesel options. Specifically for the 2008 model year, gasoline choices were typically a 1.8L inline-4, a 2.2L inline-4, a 3.2L V6, and diesel options included a 1.9L inline-4, a 2.0L inline-4, and a 2.4L inline-5. The 2.2L inline-4 gasoline engine produces around 185 horsepower and 169 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options varied based on engine and trim level, with choices including a 6-speed manual, a 6-speed automatic, and a Selespeed automated manual. Owners often praise the 159 for its beautiful design, comfortable interior, and sporty handling. Common complaints include higher running costs, electrical gremlins, and potential reliability concerns.

Engine

2.2L JTS Inline-4 Gasoline

• Timing Chain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive rattling noise, especially on cold starts. This can lead to engine damage if not addressed.
  • Solution: Replace the timing chain, tensioners, and guides.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• High Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Noticeable decrease in oil level between oil changes. Blue smoke from the exhaust.
  • Solution: Could be due to worn piston rings or valve stem seals. A leak down test can help determine the cause. Repair may involve replacing the piston rings or valve stem seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $4000+ depending on the extent of the damage
  • Recalls: None Found

1.9L JTDm Inline-4 Diesel

• Swirl Flap Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The swirl flaps in the intake manifold can break and cause engine damage. Limp mode, poor performance.
  • Solution: Replace the intake manifold or remove the swirl flaps and blank off the holes.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1200+
  • Recalls: None Found

2.4L JTDm Inline-5 Diesel

• EGR Valve Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Clogging of the EGR valve leading to poor performance, stalling, and increased emissions.
  • Solution: Clean or replace the EGR valve.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Manual

• Gear Selection Difficulties
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty engaging gears, especially first and second. Grinding noises when shifting.
  • Solution: Could be due to worn synchromesh rings or a failing clutch. Replacement of the clutch kit or gearbox rebuild may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2000+ depending on the extent of the damage
  • Recalls: None Found

Selespeed Automated Manual

• Hydraulic Pump Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The Selespeed system relies on a hydraulic pump. Failures can lead to shifting problems or complete inability to shift gears. Warning lights on the dashboard.
  • Solution: Replace the hydraulic pump.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front Upper Wishbone Bushings
  • Description/Symptoms: Squeaking or knocking noises from the front suspension, especially when going over bumps. Vague steering.
  • Solution: Replace the front upper wishbone bushings or the entire wishbone assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ per side.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear Suspension Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Worn rear bushings causing vague handling and noises.
  • Solution: Replace the worn bushings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Dashboard Warning Lights
  • Description/Symptoms: Various warning lights illuminating on the dashboard for no apparent reason.
  • Solution: Diagnose the cause using an OBD-II scanner and address the specific fault. Could be a faulty sensor, wiring issue, or module failure.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies greatly depending on the issue. $100 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Window Regulator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Windows failing to operate correctly. Grinding noises from the door.
  • Solution: Replace the window regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per window
  • Recalls: None Found
• Faulty MAF Sensor
  • Description/Symptoms: Malfunctioning Mass Air Flow sensor that causes the car to run poorly or trigger the engine light
  • Solution: Replace the MAF sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust can appear in areas like the sills, wheel arches, and around the door bottoms.
  • Solution: Remove the rust and apply body filler, primer, and paint.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+ per area, depending on severity

Interior

• Climate Control Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The climate control system may fail to blow hot or cold air, or the fan may stop working.
  • Solution: Check the refrigerant level, compressor, blower motor, and control module. Repair or replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sticky Dashboard
  • Description/Symptoms: In some climates, the dashboard plastic can become sticky and unpleasant to the touch.
  • Solution: Cleaning the dashboard with special products or replacing the affected parts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $500+

Summary

The 2008 Alfa Romeo 159, while visually appealing and offering a unique driving experience, is prone to several issues that prospective buyers should be aware of. Engine and transmission problems, particularly with the 2.2L JTS timing chain and Selespeed system, can lead to costly repairs. Suspension and electrical gremlins are also common. While some issues are relatively minor and inexpensive to fix, others can be quite severe and financially burdensome. Overall, the 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 requires careful inspection and maintenance to ensure reliability and enjoyment.