2019 Alfa Romeo Stelvio

The 2019 Alfa Romeo Stelvio is a stylish and sporty compact SUV that offers a unique driving experience compared to its competitors. It is powered by a 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 280 horsepower and 306 lb-ft of torque or a 2.9L twin-turbocharged V6 engine producing 505 horsepower and 443 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. Owners generally praise the Stelvio for its engaging handling, distinctive Italian design, and powerful engines. However, some common complaints include the reliability of electronics, fit and finish issues, and higher maintenance costs compared to other SUVs in its class.

Engine

2.0L Turbocharged Inline-4

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaking from the valve cover gasket or the oil filter housing. May notice oil spots under the vehicle or a burning oil smell.
  • Solution: Replace the valve cover gasket or the oil filter housing.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Coolant Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of coolant, overheating, and a sweet smell from the engine bay. Leakage often occurs at the thermostat housing or coolant hoses.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty thermostat housing or coolant hoses.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

2.9L Twin-Turbocharged V6

• High Pressure Fuel Pump Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine Stalling, Misfires, Check Engine Light illumination.
  • Solution: Replace the High Pressure Fuel Pump.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Turbocharger Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Whining or whistling noises from the engine, reduced power, and a check engine light. Can be caused by a leak in the turbocharger oil or coolant lines, or failure of the turbocharger itself.
  • Solution: Replace faulty turbocharger lines or the entire turbocharger.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

ZF 8HP50/75 8-Speed Automatic Transmission (Both Engine Options)

• Rough Shifting/Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: Noticeable hesitation or jerky shifts, especially when shifting between gears at low speeds.
  • Solution: Perform a transmission fluid flush and filter change. In some cases, a software update may be required. If the problem persists, valve body replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Squeaking/Clunking Noises
  • Description/Symptoms: Squeaking or clunking noises coming from the suspension, especially when going over bumps. This can be caused by worn-out bushings, ball joints, or struts.
  • Solution: Replace the worn-out suspension components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+ (depending on the parts replaced)
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment screen freezes, glitches, or fails to respond to touch inputs. Bluetooth connectivity problems, navigation errors, and audio malfunctions are also common.
  • Solution: Perform a system reset or software update. If the problem persists, the infotainment unit may need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sensor Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: Malfunctions such as the blind spot monitoring system, parking sensors, or adaptive cruise control failing to function correctly, generating false alerts, or not functioning at all.
  • Solution: Diagnose the specific sensor that is malfunctioning and replace it.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ (per sensor)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Car will not start, needs to be jumped, and the battery is constantly drained without being jumped.
  • Solution: Have the car’s electrical system checked to see if there is a parasitic drain. Common issues come from the infotainment system, door lock actuators, or something left plugged into an outlet.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Automatic Tailgate Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: The automatic tailgate may fail to open or close properly, or may make unusual noises during operation. This can be caused by a faulty motor, sensor, or latch mechanism.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty motor, sensor, or latch mechanism.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The sunroof may fail to open or close smoothly, or may make grinding or clicking noises during operation. Water leaks can also occur due to a faulty seal or drainage system.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the sunroof motor, track, or seal. Clear any blockages in the drainage system.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2019 Alfa Romeo Stelvio, while praised for its performance and styling, does have some common issues that prospective buyers should be aware of. Engine issues like oil and coolant leaks in the 2.0L, or HPFP and turbocharger issues with the 2.9L are potentially expensive to fix. Electrical problems, particularly with the infotainment system, are also a frequent complaint. Suspension noises and automatic tailgate malfunctions are more minor inconveniences. Overall, the severity of these issues ranges from minor annoyances to potentially costly repairs. Buyers should factor in these potential maintenance costs when considering a 2019 Stelvio.