2017 Alfa Romeo 4C

The 2017 Alfa Romeo 4C is a lightweight, mid-engined sports car known for its sharp handling and unique Italian styling. It’s powered by a 1.75-liter turbocharged inline-4 engine producing 237 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. The only available transmission is a 6-speed dual-clutch automatic. Owners often praise the 4C’s raw driving experience, exotic looks, and agility. Common criticisms include a harsh ride, limited practicality, road noise, and some reliability concerns.

Engine

1.75L Turbocharged Inline-4

• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Turbocharger failure can result in a loss of power, unusual noises (whining or screeching) from the engine bay, excessive smoke from the exhaust, and the check engine light illuminating.
  • Solution: Replacement of the turbocharger.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks can occur from various engine seals and gaskets, leading to oil consumption, visible oil spots under the car, and a burning oil smell.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty seals and gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,500+ depending on the location of the leak
• High-Pressure Fuel Pump Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) can fail, leading to poor engine performance, difficulty starting, and a check engine light.
  • Solution: HPFP replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+
• Coolant Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks can occur from hoses, radiator, or water pump, leading to overheating or low coolant level.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the faulty component.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+ depending on the location

Transmission

6-Speed Dual-Clutch Automatic (TCT)

• Clutch Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clutch slippage, difficulty shifting, rough engagement, and unusual noises during gear changes.
  • Solution: Clutch replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
• Transmission Control Module (TCM) Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Erroneous gear selections, failure to shift, delayed shifts, and warning lights.
  • Solution: TCM reprogramming or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+
• Hydraulic Pump Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The hydraulic pump which controls shifting can fail, leading to a complete loss of gear selection or erratic shifting behavior.
  • Solution: Hydraulic pump replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+

Suspension

• Bushing Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Worn suspension bushings can cause clunking noises, imprecise handling, and uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replacing the worn bushings, often requiring control arm replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+ per corner depending on parts needed
• Shock Absorber Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Leaking shocks can compromise handling and ride quality
  • Solution: Shock replacement
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500-$1,500+

Electrical

• Sensor Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: Various sensors (ABS, TPMS, etc.) can fail, triggering warning lights and potentially affecting system performance.
  • Solution: Sensor replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ per sensor
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive battery drain can lead to difficulty starting the car, especially after periods of inactivity.
  • Solution: Diagnosing and repairing the source of the drain, which could be a faulty module or accessory.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
• Infotainment System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment system can experience glitches, freezing, and connectivity problems.
  • Solution: Software updates, system resets, or head unit replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (software update) - $1,500+ (replacement)

Exterior

• Headlight Condensation
  • Description/Symptoms: Moisture can accumulate inside the headlight housings.
  • Solution: Replacement of the headlight assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $3,000+ per headlight
• Panel Alignment Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Inconsistent gaps between body panels can be present from the factory.
  • Solution: Adjustment of body panels by a qualified body shop.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the severity

Interior

• Sticky Dashboard
  • Description/Symptoms: The dashboard material can become sticky or tacky over time, especially in warmer climates.
  • Solution: Professional cleaning or dashboard replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $3,000+

Summary

The 2017 Alfa Romeo 4C, while exhilarating to drive, can present owners with a range of issues. Engine and transmission problems, particularly related to the turbocharger, clutch, and TCM, can be costly to repair. Electrical issues and certain exterior/interior problems also contribute to the ownership experience. While some issues are minor, others can be significant and require substantial investment. Owners should be aware of these potential problems and factor them into their purchasing decisions and maintenance plans.