Alfa Romeo 156 reliability
The Alfa Romeo 156 fails its MOT about as often as most cars over 10 years old: 41.1% of 1,429 tests failed in 2023, against 39.7% on average.
7 DVSA recalls for the Alfa Romeo 156
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.
Possibility of engine bay fire
It has been identified that on a small number of vehicles the possibility exists there may be a short circuit situation within the engine additional heater system during the warm up period which could lead to a fire within the engine compartment.
Fix: Recalled vehicles will have the electrical supply to the additional heater modified; in order to avoid the possibility of the short circuit occurring.
Recalled models: 156 · 1,549 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: 156 · 1,118 vehicles
Brake pipe may chafe on pas pipe mounting bracket
The fitting of an incorrect connector between the brake pipe and the master cylinder may cause the brake pipe to chafe on a power steering pipe support bracket. In the worst case this could result in a fluid leak and a reduction in braking efficiency.
Fix: Replace the connector brake pipe and seals.
Recalled models: 156 · 29 vehicles
Loosening of front suspension
Gradual loosening of the front suspension may result in noise and deterioration of the suspension and handling characteristics.
Fix: Replace the original equipment front suspension reinforcing plates and fasteners with modified components.
Recalled models: 156 · 213 vehicles
Brake pipe may chafe on cable bracket
The metal brake pipe between the master cylinder and the ABS unit may chafe on a cable bracket. A seriously damaged brake pipe will reduce the braking efficiency.
Fix: Check brake pipe condition and clearances. Renew any damaged pipes.
Recalled models: 156 · 256 vehicles
Potential fuel leak
The fuel delivery pipe from the pump may due to engine movement become strained at its connection to the injector rail. This could result in a fuel leak.
Fix: Fit two additional support clips to the fuel delivery pipe.
Recalled models: 156 · 73 vehicles
Brake pipe connector may crack and leak
On some right hand drive 156 vehicles the brake master cylinder supply pipe connectors could develop cracks and leak hydraulic fluid with a possible reduction in braking efficiency of one of the two circuits.
Fix: Recall potentially affected vehicles and replace suspect connectors and two rubber flexible pipes on the brake master cylinder with new upgraded ones.
Recalled models: 156 · 4,564 vehicles
Checking a Alfa Romeo 156 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.