Faults:

Immobilizer failed after 2 months. Car was off the road for 3 weeks as keys had to be returned to Italy for a new 'keybox' to be made.

Rear wheel bearings had to be replaced after 6000 miles.

Due to very uneven tyre wear the tracking has had to be adjusted 3 times since new.

The bolt on the tracking rod seized after 30000 miles.

Faulty ABS sensor replaced after 31000 miles.

The rear brake hose (N/S) failed causing the brakes to seize. Both hoses and pads had to be replaced after 32000 miles.

General Comments:

The car is a delight to drive. The engine is quick and responsive.

Superb fuel economy on long motorway journeys - very thirsty on short trips.

Best looking saloon on the roads - bar none!

Handles extremely well. Great fun to throw around corners on country roads.

If only the reliability and build quality were better Alfa would have a world beater on its' hands.

Owning an Alfa is like parenting a difficult child - you love it despite its' faults.

Faults:

Accelerator cable disconnected from pedal whilst driving on the motorway.

Rear brake pad rubbed against disc causing grating noise whilst driving around corners.

ECU failed and car then failed to run at all. Whilst trying to start the car when this problem first occurred the car backfired causing the exhaust manifold to shatter. Total repair cost to me £1100 for a new ECU and manifold.

The fuse box cover on the drivers side keeps falling off onto my legs whilst driving.

General Comments:

I've had the car for just over 6 months and it's been off the road for 1 month. I've read lots of reviews on this site from drivers who love the car and don't get me wrong I love it's looks, but don't be seduced! This car is fast becoming a money pit.

Once I've got my money's worth I'm going to trade it in for a BMW.

Faults:

The car was loosing Anti - Freeze, it needed topping up every 350 miles.

New steering rack needed at 12000 miles, unfortunately you cannot replace certain parts on the 156, you have to replace the whole thing.

Front door handle stick.

Leaking sunroof.

General Comments:

The car sticks to the road like it is on rails, especially now it has had its new steering rack fitted.

Although it has had it's fault, I think I am finally there, High performance vehicle with looks to make any BMW, Mercedes or Porsche driver take a sneaky look as you power past them on the motorway!!