2020 Alfa Romeo Stelvio

The 2020 Alfa Romeo Stelvio is a stylish and sporty compact SUV known for its engaging driving dynamics and Italian flair. Available engine options include a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder and a Ferrari-derived 2.9-liter twin-turbocharged V6 in the Quadrifoglio trim. The 2.0-liter engine produces 280 horsepower and 306 lb-ft of torque. The Stelvio is generally praised for its sharp handling, powerful engines, and distinctive design. However, some owners have reported issues with electrical systems, reliability, and build quality, which are the main concerns.

Engine

2.0L Turbocharged Inline-4

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks may occur from the oil cooler lines and valve cover gasket. Symptoms include visible oil drips under the vehicle, burning oil smell, and low oil level warning lights.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty oil cooler lines or replacing the valve cover gasket can resolve the issue.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+ depending on the specific leak and labor costs.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Engine Misfires
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine misfires can be caused by faulty ignition coils or spark plugs. Symptoms include rough idling, reduced power, and the check engine light illuminating.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty ignition coils or spark plugs typically resolves the issue. Diagnosing and replacing only the affected components is recommended.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $400+ per cylinder, depending on the coil and labor.
  • Recalls: None Found

2.9L Twin-Turbocharged V6 (Quadrifoglio)

• Turbocharger Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported issues with the turbochargers, including unusual noises, reduced power, and potential failure.
  • Solution: Replacement of the turbocharger(s) is often necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $8,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

ZF 8-Speed Automatic (Both Engine Options)

• Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported instances of harsh or jerky shifting, particularly at low speeds. This can feel like a clunking or jolting sensation during gear changes.
  • Solution: A software update to the transmission control module (TCM) may resolve the issue. In some cases, a more extensive repair like valve body replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $2,000+ depending on the solution needed.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Delayed Engagement
  • Description/Symptoms: Experiencing a noticeable delay between shifting into gear (Drive or Reverse) and actual movement. This is often more pronounced when the engine is cold.
  • Solution: Start with a transmission fluid flush and filter change. If that doesn’t resolve the issue, further diagnosis may be needed, potentially indicating valve body issues or internal damage.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $3,000+ depending on the extent of the issue.
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Creaking/Squeaking Noises
  • Description/Symptoms: Owners have reported creaking or squeaking noises coming from the suspension, especially when going over bumps or turning. This can be due to worn-out bushings, ball joints, or control arms.
  • Solution: Inspection of the suspension components and replacement of worn or damaged parts. Lubricating the bushings may temporarily alleviate the noise.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+ depending on the affected parts and labor.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Freezing, lagging, and random reboots of the infotainment system. Connectivity issues with Bluetooth or Apple CarPlay/Android Auto.
  • Solution: Software updates may resolve some issues. In other cases, the head unit may need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (Software Update) - $1,500+ (Head Unit Replacement).
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sensor Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: Malfunctions of various sensors, such as the parking sensors, blind-spot monitoring, or tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS). False alerts or non-functional systems.
  • Solution: Diagnose the specific sensor that is malfunctioning and replace it.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ per sensor, depending on the sensor type and location.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive battery drain leading to a dead battery, especially if the car is left unused for a few days.
  • Solution: Identify the parasitic drain by testing each circuit. Common culprits include the infotainment system or a faulty module not going into sleep mode.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+, depending on the source of the drain and labor costs.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Power Tailgate Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The power tailgate may fail to open or close properly, or it may make unusual noises. This can be due to a faulty motor, struts, or sensors.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty components, such as the motor or struts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ depending on the specific parts and labor.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Seat Motor Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Problems with the power seat adjustments, such as the seat not moving in certain directions or making grinding noises.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty seat motor or switch.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+ depending on the specific motor and labor.
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2020 Alfa Romeo Stelvio, while appreciated for its performance and style, does have some recurring issues. The most common reported problems revolve around electrical components, with the infotainment system and sensor malfunctions being the primary concerns. Engine issues such as oil leaks also surface. While some fixes are relatively inexpensive, others, like turbocharger replacements or extensive transmission repairs, can be quite costly. The severity of these issues ranges from minor annoyances to significant mechanical failures. Potential buyers should be aware of these potential problems and carefully inspect the vehicle’s service history before purchasing.