IsItAGoodCar
Reliability Guide

Common Problems with the
2009 Alfa Romeo 147

We've identified 3 known issues that can affect the 2009 Alfa Romeo 147. 2 of these are serious faults that could be expensive to repair.

3
Known Issues
2
Serious
1
Moderate
0
Minor

All Known Issues

Gearbox Synchro and Bearing Wear

SeriousGearbox & Transmission

The 147's manual gearbox, particularly on early 1.6 and 2.0 Twin Spark models, can suffer from worn synchroniser rings and bearings. This manifests as difficulty engaging gears, crunching when shifting, or gear lever play. The issue is often worsened by high mileage or infrequent gearbox oil changes.

Est. Repair Cost: £600–£1,200
Warning Signs:

Crunching or resistance when shifting into second or third gear, Gear lever feels loose or has excessive play, Gear pops out under acceleration or deceleration

What to Inspect:
  • Drive through all gears and feel for crunching or hesitation on shifts
  • Check gearbox oil level and condition during inspection
  • Listen for whining or bearing noise from the gearbox in neutral
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research TeamUpdated

Cylinder Head Gasket Failure

SeriousEngine

The 1.6 Twin Spark engine on the 147 is known for cylinder head gasket failures, often around 30,000–40,000 miles. Overheating from a faulty thermostat or coolant loss can cause the gasket to blow, leading to coolant mixing with oil, loss of compression, and potential engine damage.

Est. Repair Cost: £800–£1,500
Warning Signs:

White smoke from the exhaust, especially on startup, Coolant loss with no visible external leak, Oil appears milky or contaminated on the dipstick, Engine overheating or temperature gauge rising

What to Inspect:
  • Check the oil filler cap and dipstick for milky contamination
  • Inspect the coolant header tank for oil residue or bubbles
  • Listen for uneven idle or misfire when starting from cold
  • Ask for evidence of recent head gasket or thermostat work
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research TeamUpdated

ABS Sensor and Wheel Speed Sensor Failure

ModerateBrakes

The 147's ABS and wheel speed sensors are prone to failure, triggering the ABS warning light and disabling the anti-lock braking system. This is an MOT failure if the warning light is illuminated. Sensors can fail due to wiring damage, corrosion, or sensor wear.

Est. Repair Cost: £100–£300
Warning Signs:

ABS warning light illuminated on the instrument cluster, False ABS activation during normal braking, Speedometer reading erratically or not at all

What to Inspect:
  • Turn the ignition on and confirm the ABS light extinguishes after the bulb check
  • Inspect sensor wiring near each wheel for damage or corrosion
  • Test the brakes firmly from 30mph to confirm ABS does not activate prematurely
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research TeamUpdated

Buying Tips for 2009 Alfa Romeo 147

  • Check cam belt and variator replacement history — the Twin Spark variator rattles when worn and is replaced with the belt.
  • Test gearbox engagement through all gears; synchro wear on early cars is common and expensive.
  • Inspect front suspension wishbones and drop links for play — UK potholes accelerate bush wear.
  • Verify all electrical functions work, including central locking, windows and instrument cluster.
  • Look for rust on the floorpan and around seatbelt anchor points, especially on higher-mileage examples.
Check a 2009 Alfa Romeo 147 by Registration