1998 Alfa Romeo 146 Twin Spark 1.4

Summary:

Good looker and performer, but serious doubts on the engineering quality

Faults:

The first thing that happened was the slave cylinder on the clutch had to be replaced at 55000 miles, which proved not to be too expensive as I didn't use a dealer.

More seriously and obviously more expensive the timing belt went at 68500. The manual recommends replacement at 72000 miles or 6 years whichever occurs first. The car was registered in July 1998, so there is still some time and mileage left before both thresholds are reached.

I was informed by my local dealer that realistically I'm looking at up to €2000 to get it sorted. Ouch!

My local repair shop has advised the quickest and cheapest way out is a engine change (2nd hand of course). He was advised by Alfa mechanics that they have a reputation for doing serious valve and head damage when the timing belt goes. In addition, 146's do not work out well for valve replacements and head rework.

General Comments:

I bought the car second hand and it does not have a full service history. However, I still think it's unacceptable that the timing belt should go before the advised replacement thresholds considering there would also be a factor of safety built into the limits.

I will pursue warranty with Alfa Romeo on this basis, but would be interested in any comments regarding the timing belt and warranty claim.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? No

Review Date: 13th February, 2004

19th May 2004, 12:39

Hi.

The damage to your engine is a factor on all 16 valve cars, not just Alfas. In reality if you have a 16v engine you should change the timing belt every 30-40 thousand miles at the most, and I would do it every three years at most regardless. It's not a lot of effort to save you possibly a small fortune. I know this may come too late for you, but I hope the more people see it the better.

I would be doubtful that Alfa would do anything for you, but would be glad to hear otherwise.

17th Dec 2005, 12:28

I have just bought a var that has suffered cam belt failiure (At 88,000 miles). It cost £800 to fix it, which included new valves and a head re-build, so it's not the end of the world. I also read in Auto Italia that the pistons are always OK after an event like this.

Simon.

1998 Alfa Romeo 146 ti 2.0 T. Spark

Summary:

Amazing car for the Price

Faults:

Everything is currently fine with the car.

General Comments:

The car I own has the optional 146ti body kit with GTV alloys. Which is very low to the ground resulting in having to take speed bumps at virtual standstill! Any faster will result in hitting the front splitter and damaging the fogs.

On the straight though the car is very fast and makes an amazing noise when in the high revs.

Only slight problem is the relatively high driving position although the Momo leather seats are more than enough to compensate for this minor niggle.

I have been challenged by various cars at the lights! These include Audi TT, BMW 330is and Subaru Impreza turbos!

For a car costing under 5k it's a bargain which gains respect on the road that no ford or vauxhall could!

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 11th October, 2003

28th Jun 2005, 06:44

I think this comment is absolutely true. What a car!!!

22nd Nov 2006, 14:27

I have owned a couple of these cars and they are pretty quick... But I think the BMW 330Ci and Impreza drivers were asleep if you beat them..