Alfa Romeo 147 reliability
The Alfa Romeo 147 fails its MOT about as often as most cars over 10 years old: 44.1% of 2,404 tests failed in 2023, against 39.7% on average.
8 DVSA recalls for the Alfa Romeo 147
Most cover a batch of cars built in a set period, and dealers fix them free. Sweep’s check shows the recalls for a car’s age and whether the DVSA has one outstanding.
Tyre sidewall may crack
It has been identified that Pirelli tyre type 215/40 ZR18 89W PZERO NERO annotated MO and F223 may suffer cracking of the sidewall. This can lead to loss of inflation pressure and under certain conditions can have an adverse effect on the safe handling of the vehicle.
Fix: Recalled vehicles will have the subject tyres replaced.
Recalled models: 147 · 241 vehicles
Brakes may fail
Due to the possibility of a fault in the production process the flexible rubber brake hoses may not have been correctly vulcanised. As a consequence may partially or totally restrict the internal flow of the brake hydraulic fluid. Should this happen a reduction in efficiency during braking would occur.
Fix: Recalled vehicles will have the hoses checked to identify if they are within the affected batch. If this is the case they will be replaced with quality assured items.
Recalled models: 147 · 687 vehicles
Possibility of fire
There is a possibility that the fuel hose from the diesel filter to the high pressure pump may chafe on the fuel filter housing. In time this could result in a fuel leak and the possibility of an engine compartment fire.
Fix: Recalled vehicles will have the routing of the hose checked at which time if the hose is not damaged a new bracket will be fitted to prevent chafing. If the hose is damaged it will be replaced in addition a new bracket will be fitted.
Recalled models: 147 · 890 vehicles
Clutch may fail
On a number of RHD ALfa Romeo 147 and GT models there is a possibility that the clip which secures the connecting pin between the clutch cylinder and the clutch pedal may become detached resulting in loss of clutch operation.
Fix: Recalled vehicles will be fitted with a redesigned retaining clip.
Recalled models: 147 · 5,355 vehicles
Braking efficiency may reduce
The Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) system does not operate properly when the space saver spare wheel is fitted. This could lead to the VDC warning lamp operating and may lead to reduced braking efficiency if the brakes are vigorously applied.
Fix: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected to fit a new VDC electronic control unit that has upgraded software installed.
Recalled models: 147 · 3,950 vehicles
Possible fuel leak
A fuel leak may result due to cracking of the recirculation pipe flange on the fuel tank when the tank is filled to the maximum.
Fix: Recalled vehicles will have the fuel tank inspected for cracks and replaced if necessary.
Recalled models: 147 · 865 vehicles
Possible risk of fire and loss of power assisted steering
There is a possibility that the high pressure power steering pipe may contact the exhaust downpipe which may result in a risk of fire and loss of power steering assistance.
Fix: Recall affected vehicles check pipe for contact with exhaust and fit extra retaining bracket to power assisted steering pipe.
Recalled models: 147 · 1,118 vehicles
Possible fire risk
Possible short circuit and fire risk in engine coolant booster heater wiring circuit during engine warm up period.
Fix: Modify the electrical wiring fit a re-rated protective fuse and install modified mounting bushes.
Recalled models: 147 · 6 vehicles
Checking a Alfa Romeo 147 before you buy
Look at the parts above at the viewing, and read the car’s own MOT history: advisories for the same parts suggest the problem is already starting. Sweep’s free check shows every MOT, advisory and mileage reading for a registration.