2000 Alfa Romeo 156 TS Veloce review from UK and Ireland

Immobiliser/key-code failed 1 month after delivery. Told by the dealer to call the AA, and to get them to bring the car to the workshop. AA engineer knew about a recall that Alfa had issued, to get the immobiliser software upgraded. He fixed the problem by disconnecting the battery for 10 minutes, after which the car started as normal. Dealer knew nothing about the recall.

Car overheated at 4000 miles due to a loss of coolant. Dealer replaced the water pump, but the coolant still required topping up by 1 liter every 500 miles. Contacted 1 week later by the dealer, enquiring if the car was OK. I said no, the car was still loosing coolant, so they then told me about a recall to get the cylinder head bolts replaced, as the ones fitted were too long!

The car is a great combination of performance and comfort.

1.6 TS engine seems as powerful as other manufacturer's 2.0 liter engines.

Worried by reliability - 2 recalls in 3 months!

Dealer (Westover Alfa, Bournemouth) struggling to cope with service and repair work. Not enough courtesy cars, no room in the workshop. Mechanic sat in my car (pale grey leather seats) in dirty overalls!