Alfa Romeo opinions

CChrisca

CChrisca

CChrisca

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Kent
I've seen an 02 plated Alfa Romeo 147 1.6 and I'm thinking of taking a look at it but a friend of mine reckons the electronics on them are notoriously bad - is he thinking of older models or are the newer ones known to have problems as well??
 
I'm also considering getting a 147. They're apparently a lot more reliable than previous Alfas, but I'd only consider buying a second hand one through a dealership, just in case.
 
I have an alfa romeo, only for a month though so I can't comment too much on reliability. From what I've read they seem to have sorted out a lot of there reliability problems but I think they are still notorious for electrical problems. They are not the worst though, plenty of marques have electrical problems these days due to the increased complexity of the electronics.

My friend's parents have a 147 and have had no problems with it in 3/4 years so the 147 maybe an improvement.

I would be tempted to say buy from a dealer as a warranty is always a good safety net, but if you know what to look for then there is no reason not to go private.
 
Alfas are fine. Alfa dealerships for the most part, sadly, aren't.

As long as you actually maintain them, they're perfectly reliable. If you neglect them, it can get costly.
 
Careful servicing is key to reliability. Any hint its been neglected then walk away. Be prepared to follow the service schedule and don't expect a back street garage to be able to do it. Check your oil weekly and be sure to get the cam belt changed every 36k.

Walk away from any cars that have had belt failures, owners often sell them soon after as the bottom end usually gives up 10k afterwards.
 
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