Used Alfa Romeo 159

What to know before buying: Alfa Romeo 159

From 2 forum threads and 2 press tests · updated 11/10/2026

What the reviews say

• The 159 combines a stable, comfortable ride with precise hydraulic steering, supportive seats and good sound insulation, making it well suited to long trips.[1]one sourceAlfa Romeo 159
• Owners praise its performance and predictable handling, although the firm suspension and low ground clearance can be inconvenient on poor roads.[2]one sourceAlfa Romeo 159
• Sources praise the cabin’s quality and ergonomics, although one owner found space for four tall occupants and the saloon’s boot limited.[1][2]Alfa Romeo 159
• Reliability depends heavily on the individual car: a specialist rates the 159 positively overall, while one 2.2 JTS owner experienced frequent unexpected faults.[1][4]Alfa Romeo 159

Typical faults

• The 1.9 JTS, 2.2 JTS and 3.2 V6 are prone to timing-chain tension problems from 60,000–70,000 km.[1]one sourceAlfa Romeo 159

  60 000–70 000 km · 1.9 JTS, 2.2 JTS, 3.2 V6

• Early 2.0 diesels can leak oil or coolant, potentially requiring a valve-cover gasket, EGR housing or even intake-manifold replacement.[1]one sourceAlfa Romeo 159

  2.0 diesel

• Getrag manual gearboxes can suffer bearing wear, first heard as extra noise in fifth and sixth gears. It is reported most often with the 1.9 diesel.[1]one sourceAlfa Romeo 159

  1.9 diesel

• In urban use, the 2.4 diesel can accumulate soot in its intake passages and clog its DPF quickly.[1]one sourceAlfa Romeo 159

  2.4 diesel

• In Latvian conditions, the front upper-arm bushes tend to wear first, while cars used locally for longer can suffer broken springs.[1]one sourceAlfa Romeo 159
• One 2.2 JTS owner reported a failed START button that prevented the car from being started.[4]one sourceAlfa Romeo 159

  2.2 JTS

Which engine and version to take

• A specialist considers the 1.8 TBi the best-suited engine for the 159 and had seen no engine-related faults even in cars approaching 200,000 km.[1]one sourceAlfa Romeo 159
• The 1.9 JTD is described as the most reliable and common diesel; both the simpler 8v and more powerful 16v versions suit everyday use.[1][3]Alfa Romeo 159
• The 2.4 diesel suits regular long motorway trips, offering 210 hp and 400 Nm, but it is a poor fit for predominantly urban use.[1][3]Alfa Romeo 159

What to avoid

• The 1.8 MPI is underpowered and uses too much fuel; do not confuse it with the recommended 1.8 TBi.[1]one sourceAlfa Romeo 159
• Consider the 1.9 JTS, 2.2 JTS and 3.2 V6 only with convincing chain-service history, as tension problems can appear by 60,000–70,000 km.[1]one sourceAlfa Romeo 159
• Avoid the 2.4 diesel for mainly urban driving because of its high consumption, soot-prone intake and rapidly clogging DPF.[1]one sourceAlfa Romeo 159

What to check at the inspection

• Have the car inspected by a workshop familiar with Alfa Romeo; owners stress that the condition of the individual example is decisive.[3]one sourceAlfa Romeo 159
• On the 1.9 JTS, 2.2 JTS and 3.2 V6, verify the timing-chain history and listen for abnormal noise during a cold start.[1]one sourceAlfa Romeo 159
• Test the manual gearbox in fifth and sixth; excessive transmission noise may indicate bearing wear, particularly with the 1.9 diesel.[1]one sourceAlfa Romeo 159
• On the 2.0 diesel, check for oil and coolant leaks around the valve cover, EGR housing and intake manifold.[1]one sourceAlfa Romeo 159
• On a lift, inspect the front upper-arm bushes, springs and wheel bearings; bearing noise can resemble the hum from unevenly worn tyres.[1]one sourceAlfa Romeo 159
• Test the START button, rain sensor, climate control and other electrics: button and sensor failures are reported, while the climate system was improved in 2008.[1][4]Alfa Romeo 159

Verdict

Sources

1. [1]autofficina.lv — Alfa Romeo 159 · press
2. [2]auto.jautajums.lv — Alfa Romeo 159 atsauksmes | jautajums.lv - Auto, moto · forum
3. [3]alfisti.by — Alfa Romeo 159, отзывы владельцев - Форум ... · forum
4. [4]whatcar.lv — Lasītaju vērtējums - Alfa Romeo 159 sedans (06-12) · press

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