2019 Alfa Romeo Giulietta
The 2019 Alfa Romeo Giulietta is a stylish and sporty hatchback offered in several configurations. Engine options include a 1.4L turbocharged petrol engine (around 120 hp and 158 lb-ft of torque) and a 2.0L turbocharged petrol engine (ranging from 170 hp to 240 hp depending on the trim). Transmission options were primarily a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed TCT (Twin Clutch Transmission) automatic. People generally like the Giulietta for its distinctive Italian styling, agile handling, and relatively comfortable ride. Common complaints include concerns about reliability, the quality of some interior materials, and the relatively small size of the rear seats and trunk.
Engine
1.4L Turbocharged Petrol
- Excessive Oil Consumption
- Description/Symptoms: Owners have reported higher than expected oil consumption, requiring frequent top-ups. Symptoms include low oil level warnings and visible exhaust smoke in some cases.
- Solution: Some owners have had success with switching to a different brand or weight of oil. In more severe cases, piston ring replacement may be required.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3000+
- Recalls: None Found
2.0L Turbocharged Petrol
- High Pressure Fuel Pump Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Owners have reported a failure of the High Pressure Fuel Pump, which may lead to engine stalling.
- Solution: Replacement of the High Pressure Fuel Pump.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1200
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
6-Speed TCT (Twin Clutch Transmission) Automatic
- Hesitation and Jerky Shifting
- Description/Symptoms: Some owners have experienced hesitation during acceleration, particularly from a standstill, and jerky or harsh gear changes.
- Solution: A transmission software update or adaptation reset may resolve the issue in some cases. If the problem persists, clutch pack replacement or mechatronic unit repair may be required.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400 (software update), $2000 - $5000+ (clutch/mechatronic repair)
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Knocking or Clunking Noises
- Description/Symptoms: Reports of knocking or clunking noises emanating from the front suspension, especially when driving over bumps or rough roads. The source is often traced to worn sway bar end links or lower control arm bushings.
- Solution: Replacement of the worn sway bar end links and/or lower control arm bushings.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $500
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Failed Window Regulator
- Description/Symptoms: The window regulator may fail causing the window to not be able to be opened or closed.
- Solution: Replacement of the failed window regulator.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
- Recalls: None Found
- Dashboard warning lights/Error Messages
- Description/Symptoms: Seemingly random error messages appear in the dash and the car may exhibit odd behavior. Common messages include “Check Engine”, “ABS Failure”, “Hill Start Assist not Available”, and others.
- Solution: Diagnosing the root cause of the electrical issues can be difficult, and might be a loose wire. Replacing the faulty component resolves the issue.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- No Issues Found
Interior
- Creaking Dashboard
- Description/Symptoms: Annoying creaking or rattling noises coming from the dashboard, particularly in colder weather or on uneven roads.
- Solution: Identifying and isolating the source of the creaking, often requiring careful disassembly and reassembly of the dashboard components. Applying felt tape or other sound-dampening materials to contact points may help.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $500+ (depending on the complexity and if a professional is used)
- Recalls: None Found
- Sticky Interior Trim
- Description/Symptoms: The soft-touch trim pieces on the dashboard, door panels, and center console can develop a sticky or tacky surface over time, especially in hot climates.
- Solution: Thorough cleaning with a specialized interior cleaner designed for removing sticky residue. In severe cases, replacement of the affected trim pieces may be necessary.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $20 - $100+ (cleaning supplies), $100 - $500+ (trim replacement)
- Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2019 Alfa Romeo Giulietta, while stylish and fun to drive, can be prone to certain issues. The most common complaints involve the engine, transmission, suspension, and electrical systems. Engine issues can range from moderate oil consumption to more severe fuel pump failures. Transmission problems often involve jerky shifting, potentially requiring expensive clutch or mechatronic unit repairs. Suspension noises are common and usually relatively inexpensive to fix. Electrical issues can be difficult to diagnose and may lead to costly repairs. Interior creaking and sticky trim can be annoying but are generally cosmetic. Overall, potential buyers should be aware of these potential issues and factor in the cost of maintenance and repairs when considering a used 2019 Giulietta.