2018 Alfa Romeo Stelvio

Introduction

The 2018 Alfa Romeo Stelvio is a compact luxury SUV that offers a potent blend of Italian design, responsive handling, and spirited performance. It is available with two engine options: a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four (280 horsepower, 306 lb-ft of torque) and a turbocharged 2.9-liter V6 (505 horsepower, 443 lb-ft of torque). Both engines are paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission.

While the Stelvio has garnered praise for its engaging driving dynamics and luxurious interior, it has also been plagued by a number of issues, ranging from minor inconveniences to potentially serious safety concerns.

Engine

2.0-liter Turbocharged Inline-Four

• Intake Valve Deposits
  • Description/Symptoms: Buildup of carbon deposits on the intake valves can lead to reduced engine power, increased fuel consumption, and rough idling.
  • Solution: Remove and clean the intake valves and throttle body.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Fuel Injector Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Malfunctioning fuel injectors result in poor engine performance, difficulty starting, and potentially engine stalling.
  • Solution: Replace the failed fuel injector(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $350+
  • Recalls: None Found

2.9-liter Turbocharged V6

• No Issues Found

Transmission

Eight-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Shuddering
  • Description/Symptoms: Noticeable shuddering or vibrations during acceleration or gear changes.
  • Solution: Update the transmission software or replace the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V683000; FCA US LLC Recall Number: W36
• Hesitation/Delay
  • Description/Symptoms: Delayed or inconsistent shifting, especially when downshifting.
  • Solution: Update the transmission software.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Suspension Noise
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive noise or rattling from the rear suspension, particularly over rough roads.
  • Solution: Inspect and tighten or replace the rear suspension components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Front Suspension Bushing Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Worn front suspension bushings may cause handling instability, excessive noise, and vibration.
  • Solution: Replace the worn bushings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Parasitic battery drain that can lead to a dead battery after prolonged periods of non-use.
  • Solution: Identify and eliminate the source of the parasitic drain, such as a faulty module or accessory.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Infotainment System Glitches
  • Description/Symptoms: Freezing, unresponsive, or buggy infotainment system.
  • Solution: Update the software or replace the infotainment unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Sunroof Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Water leaking into the cabin through the panoramic sunroof.
  • Solution: Clean and reseal the sunroof drains or replace the sunroof assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Door Handle Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: Door handles that fail to open or close properly.
  • Solution: Replace the door handle mechanism.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Climate Control Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Malfunctioning climate control system that can result in incorrect temperatures or air distribution.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair the faulty component, such as the blower motor or blend door actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Wind Noise
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive wind noise entering the cabin from around the doors or windows.
  • Solution: Inspect and seal any gaps or leaks in the body panels or weatherstripping.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

While the Alfa Romeo Stelvio offers an engaging driving experience and luxurious interior, it has been plagued by a range of issues that can be both frustrating and expensive to fix. The most common problems appear to be related to the transmission, electrical system, and interior components. Some of the issues, such as battery drain and infotainment glitches, are relatively minor inconveniences. However, more severe issues, such as transmission shuddering or intake valve deposits, can have a significant impact on the car’s performance and safety. The cost of repairs can vary widely depending on the nature of the issue and the specific parts that need to be replaced. Overall, the Stelvio’s reliability issues are a significant concern that potential buyers should consider before purchasing.