Alfa Romeo 156 Problems Common Issues and Repair Costs
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Alfa Romeo 156 Problems: Common Issues and Repair Costs

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The Alfa Romeo 156 is one of the most iconic Alfa saloons ever built. First introduced in 1997, it combined sharp Italian styling with performance that stood out against the usual German competition. Whether you owned the 1.8 Twin Spark, 2.4 JTD, or the GTA, the 156 had real character. But with character came issues. As the car has aged, many of its common problems have become well known. This guide covers the most frequent Alfa 156 faults and gives realistic repair cost estimates for UK owners and buyers.

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1. Timing Belt Failure

Issue: One of the most critical and costly issues is timing belt failure, especially on the 1.6, 1.8, and 2.0 Twin Spark engines. These engines are interference units, so if the belt snaps, serious engine damage follows.

Symptoms:

  • Metallic ticking noise from the engine
  • Engine fails to start
  • Sudden power loss

Recommended interval: Every 36,000 miles or 3 years

Repair cost (UK):

  • Timing belt and water pump kit: £250 to £400
  • Full timing belt replacement (with labour): £450 to £650
  • Engine rebuild (if belt snaps): £1,200 to £2,000+

2. Suspension Component Wear

Issue: The Alfa 156 has a double-wishbone front suspension, which gives great handling but suffers from rapid wear. Lower arms, bushes, and drop links wear out frequently.

Symptoms:

  • Clunking when going over bumps
  • Steering feels loose or vague
  • Uneven tyre wear

Repair cost (UK):

  • Lower wishbone: £120 to £180 per side
  • Drop links: £30 to £50 each
  • Full front suspension overhaul: £500 to £800

3. Gearbox and Clutch Problems

Issue: Manual gearboxes are generally tough but can suffer from worn synchros, especially in second gear. Clutch slave cylinders are also known to leak or fail.

Symptoms:

  • Crunching when shifting
  • Gearstick won’t engage smoothly
  • Clutch pedal soft or stuck to the floor

Repair cost (UK):

  • Gearbox repair (synchros): £600 to £1,000
  • Clutch kit and labour: £450 to £700
  • Slave cylinder replacement: £100 to £180

4. Rust and Corrosion

Issue: While the 156 is better rust-proofed than older Alfas, it is not immune. Common rust spots include rear arches, sills, subframes, and boot floors.

Symptoms:

  • Bubbling paintwork
  • Corroded floorpan or chassis rails
  • MOT advisories for corrosion

Repair cost (UK):

  • Localised rust repair: £100 to £250
  • Welding repairs (sills or subframe): £200 to £600
  • Subframe replacement: £300 to £600

5. Electrical Faults

Issue: The Alfa 156 is notorious for minor electrical gremlins. These can be caused by poor earth connections or aging wiring looms.

Symptoms:

  • Random warning lights
  • Windows or mirrors stop working
  • Central locking fails intermittently

Repair cost (UK):

  • Electrical diagnostics: £60 to £100
  • ABS sensor: £50 to £120
  • Window motor: £100 to £180

6. Oil Consumption and Leaks

Issue: Twin Spark engines are known to use oil, even when healthy. In addition, oil leaks from the rocker cover and cam seals are common.

Symptoms:

  • Regular oil top-ups needed
  • Oil stains under the car
  • Burning oil smell

Repair cost (UK):

  • Rocker cover gasket: £60 to £100
  • Crank seal replacement: £120 to £180
  • Oil top-up (ongoing): £15 to £30 every 1,000 miles

7. Selespeed Transmission Issues (if fitted)

Issue: Some 2.0-litre 156s were fitted with the Selespeed semi-automatic transmission. It is known for being unreliable without regular maintenance.

Symptoms:

  • Jerky gear changes
  • Gears not engaging
  • Selespeed failure warning on dash

Repair cost (UK):

  • Selespeed actuator: £800 to £1,200
  • Selespeed pump: £400 to £600
  • Diagnostics and fluid replacement: £80 to £120

8. Interior Trim Wear and Rattles

Issue: Trim plastics and fittings inside the 156 can become brittle and loose with age. The glovebox, switches, and centre console are all known weak points.

Symptoms:

  • Rattling from dash or doors
  • Loose buttons or controls
  • Faded interior plastics

Repair cost (UK):

  • Switch or panel replacement: £30 to £80
  • Glovebox repair or replacement: £60 to £120
  • Full interior refit or retrim: £200 to £500+

Summary Table – Alfa Romeo 156 Common Problems and UK Repair Costs

ProblemEstimated Cost (UK)
Timing belt and water pump£450 to £650
Suspension overhaul£120 to £800
Gearbox or clutch repair£100 to £1,000+
Rust or welding£100 to £600+
Electrical repairs£60 to £180
Oil leaks and top-ups£60 to £180
Selespeed transmission (if fitted)£400 to £1,200+
Interior trim repairs£50 to £300

Final Advice

The Alfa Romeo 156 is a brilliant car to drive and full of personality, but it needs regular care. Most common problems are manageable if caught early, and good specialist support is available across the UK. If you’re buying one, prioritise service history, bodywork condition, and a recent timing belt change. Avoid neglected cars, especially if they have Selespeed gearboxes or corrosion near structural points.

For peace of mind, always book a professional inspection with a trusted service like CAREXAMER, which checks mechanical, electrical, and body components in full detail before you commit.

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