1990 Alfa Romeo 164 Lusso from UK and Ireland - Comments

Starter motor wiring problems (several times).

Exhaust (all has been replaced - in two goes).

Clutch (but car had done ~80,000 on previous ones).

Air conditioning (the stepper motors - a common, and very expensive to fix problem).

Turn on the aircon (if the car has it). If you hear any clicks get out and ignore the car ASAP - the clicks are the stepper motors in the aircon unit on their way out - cost to repair ~

I bought my 91 Alfa 3L V6 Auto because it was blue and I loved the way it looked. GREAT PERFORMANCE AND I JUST LOVE DRIVING IT (if I can get up early to snatch it from the wife).

Regards

Glenn from NZ

Hi! It's me again.

The above problems seem to return after you get them fixed. It's true what they say regarding the electrics (CRAP), the Italians leave the electrics up to the Japanese. I have had to disconnect my ABS because it sometimes vibrates and won't function properly. Here in Christchurch New Zealand no one fixes ABS any more.

My drivers window vibrates and only works half way (if I am lucky it won't jam up on me). And of course the heater, well I have replaced the thermostat, still no heat and it rattles (like a time bomb) and cold air only blow's against the window. $1700 NZ to fix the problem.

When you adjust the drivers seat to go forward it won't stop until your face is hard against the window, otherwise it's a great car to drive and I love it a lot.

Regards

Glenn

fam-busse.online@internet.co.nz

I have had two 164 3 litre autos. I loved both dearly, but both have ultimately the same problem. Auto gearbox failure. The ZF autobox is also fitted to SAAB amongst others and I have heard failure stories from them also. Always check the operation of the autobox, aircon and all electrics before purchase. Check autobox fluid (dipstick is next to air filter box), it should clean with no bits in it and definately dark brown, walk away if fluid is not clean. That said the fluid in my second 164 was spotless and that now sits on my drive with an inability to drive forwards! Overall the 164 is a fantastic car. I suppose my biggest gripe is the abysmal turning circle, but I have heard no one else say this - perhaps my other cars have unusually tight turning circles.

No you're not alone. This car has an appalling turning circle - you have to plan your 3-point manoeuvres carefully. But so what. rev out that V6 to 6500 and youll remember what owning a 164 is all about..