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

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The Alfa Romeo Junior is a stylish new compact electric SUV that brings Italian flair to the affordable EV market. Originally introduced as the Alfa Romeo Milano, the name was changed shortly before launch. Built on the Stellantis CMP platform, the Junior shares much of its core with the Peugeot e-2008 and Jeep Avenger but adds Alfa-specific tuning and design. As with any brand-new model, early owners are reporting a few common issues. This guide covers the real-world problems Alfa Romeo Junior owners may face in the UK, along with repair costs and solutions.

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1. Infotainment System Glitches

Issue: Early models have shown problems with the touchscreen system freezing, lagging, or restarting. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto may also disconnect randomly.

Symptoms:

  • Black or frozen screen
  • Audio cutting out
  • Navigation crashing mid-drive

UK Repair Costs:

  • Software update: Free under warranty
  • System reset (post-warranty): £80 to £150
  • Full infotainment unit replacement: £600 to £900

Note: These issues are common in first-gen systems and often resolved via software updates.

2. Charging Faults or Communication Errors

Issue: Some EV owners have reported charging problems including the car not starting a charge, charging interruptions, or showing error messages on public chargers.

Symptoms:

  • Flashing red charging light
  • Charging session ends early
  • App fails to show charging status

UK Repair Costs:

  • Basic diagnostics: £80 to £120
  • Charging port replacement: £250 to £400
  • On-board charger replacement: £700 to £1,200

3. Suspension Harshness and Noises

Issue: The Alfa Junior’s suspension may feel too firm on UK roads, especially with larger wheels. Some owners report knocks or rattles over speed bumps and potholes.

Symptoms:

  • Loud thud over rough surfaces
  • Suspension creaks
  • Rear end bounces over uneven roads

UK Repair Costs:

  • Shock absorber (per corner): £180 to £250
  • Suspension bushes or mounts: £100 to £150
  • Inspection and diagnostics: £80 to £120

Tip: Choose 17-inch wheels for a smoother ride if possible.

4. Interior Trim Rattles

Issue: Plastic rattles from door panels, dashboard, or B-pillars are occasionally reported, especially in colder temperatures.

Symptoms:

  • Clicking or buzzing from trim
  • Dashboard noises during acceleration or braking
  • Rattles over uneven surfaces

UK Repair Costs:

  • Noise diagnostics and refitting: £80 to £200
  • Trim clips or parts: £10 to £30

Most of these issues are minor and fixed free under the 3-year warranty.

5. 12V Battery Discharge Issues

Issue: Although the Junior is electric, it still uses a traditional 12V battery for systems like lights, locking, and startup. Some cars have shown premature 12V battery drain.

Symptoms:

  • Car won’t start
  • Red battery warning light
  • Vehicle seems completely dead

UK Repair Costs:

  • New 12V battery: £120 to £180
  • Battery reset or update: £60 to £100

Tip: If the car will sit unused for over a week, consider a smart charger.

6. EV Range Lower Than Expected

Issue: Many EV owners find that the real-world range is lower than WLTP claims, particularly in winter or on motorways.

Expected real-world range:

  • 180 to 200 miles on the 54 kWh battery
  • Lower in cold weather or high-speed driving

Battery Health Check Costs (UK):

  • Main dealer test: £80 to £120
  • Independent EV battery test: £100 to £150

This is not a fault, but owners should understand how range fluctuates with temperature and driving style.

7. Mirror Folding and Handle Sensor Faults

Issue: Electrically folding mirrors or keyless entry sensors may behave inconsistently on some early models.

Symptoms:

  • Mirrors do not fold or unfold
  • Door handle sensors not responsive
  • Mirror movement sounds strained

UK Repair Costs:

  • Mirror motor or control module: £100 to £180
  • Handle sensor or wiring fault: £150 to £220

Are These Problems Serious?

No, most problems reported with the Alfa Romeo Junior are early-model bugs that affect many first-generation EVs. Most issues are software-related or minor fit-and-finish complaints. Mechanical problems are rare so far.

Warranty coverage:

  • 3 years/unlimited miles general warranty
  • 8 years or 100,000 miles battery warranty

Repairs for known issues are usually carried out free under warranty if the vehicle is within the coverage period.

Summary Table – Alfa Romeo Junior Problems and Repair Costs (UK)

Problem AreaRepair Cost Estimate
Infotainment issues£80 to £900
Charging port or OBC£250 to £1,200
Suspension noise or shocks£100 to £250 per corner
12V battery issues£60 to £180
Trim rattles and interior noise£80 to £200
Mirror or handle faults£100 to £220
Battery health check£80 to £150

Final Advice

The Alfa Romeo Junior is a stylish and well-equipped electric car with a lot to offer. Like most brand-new models, it has a few early issues, but they are largely manageable. Software updates, warranty coverage, and routine maintenance will address most concerns.

If you’re buying used or nearly new, consider getting a professional inspection from a trusted service like CAREXAMER, especially for ex-demo or fleet vehicles. Their mobile engineers provide in-depth EV checks across the UK, offering peace of mind beyond standard dealership inspections.

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