IsItAGoodCar
Reliability Guide

Common Problems with the
1996–1998 Alfa Romeo 155

We've identified 3 known issues that can affect the 1996–1998 Alfa Romeo 155. 2 of these are serious faults that could be expensive to repair.

3
Known Issues
2
Serious
1
Moderate
0
Minor

All Known Issues

Floorpan and Rear Chassis Leg Corrosion

SeriousBodywork & Rust

Built on early-1990s Fiat Group sheet metal prior to full zinc galvanisation, the 155 is highly vulnerable to moisture and UK road salt. Salt-laden road spray trapped beneath factory underseal and inside plastic wheel arch liners causes severe corrosion to the floorpan seams, inner sills, battery tray, and rear suspension mounting outriggers, resulting in structural MOT failures if not treated.

Est. Repair Cost: £500–£1,800 (cutting out corrosion and welding structural steel replacement panels)
Warning Signs:

Soft, crumbly steel along the lower sill edges and around jacking points, Damp cabin footwell carpets with rust staining visible beneath floor sound deadening, Perforated rear wheel arch tubs allowing road spray into the luggage compartment, MOT failure notices citing structural corrosion near safety-critical suspension mounts

What to Inspect:
  • Put the car on a workshop lift and conduct a firm hammer-tap check along both structural chassis rails
  • Lift the boot floor carpets and check around the rear suspension shock absorber turrets
  • Inspect the engine bay bulkhead and the metal beneath the 12V battery tray for rust
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research TeamUpdated

16V Twin Spark Timing Belt and Tensioner Failure

SeriousEngine

While early 8V Twin Spark engines used durable double-row timing chains, the post-1995 wide-body cars switched to 16-valve modular engines with rubber cambelts and plastic tensioner pulleys. The tensioner bearing degrades rapidly, causing belts to slip or snap. The interference design causes valves to collide with pistons, destroying the valvetrain. UK specialists enforce a 36,000-mile or 3-year interval.

Est. Repair Cost: £350–£650 (belt, tensioner, and idlers) / £1,400–£2,400 (cylinder head rebuild)
Warning Signs:

High-pitched whining or dry bearing squeal from the timing belt cover area at idle, Service history exceeds 36 months or 36,000 miles since the last cambelt renewal, Engine abruptly cuts out during driving and the starter spins fast with no compression

What to Inspect:
  • Check paperwork for invoices confirming timing belt, balance belt, and tensioner replacement
  • Unclip the top of the cambelt cover to inspect the belt for edge fraying or oil contamination
  • Confirm that the water pump was renewed concurrently with the timing belt assembly
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research TeamUpdated

Quick-Ratio Power Steering Rack Leaks

ModerateSteering

The 155 wide-body features a responsive 2.2-turn quick-ratio power steering rack that generates high hydraulic operating pressures. Engine bay heat from the exhaust manifold and degraded rubber boots allow road grit to score the chrome steering rack shaft. This cuts the internal hydraulic seals, causing power steering fluid leaks, pump whining, heavy steering, and instant UK MOT failure.

Est. Repair Cost: £350–£750 (reconditioned steering rack, fluid flush, and four-wheel alignment)
Warning Signs:

Puddle of red power steering fluid on the ground under the front subframe, Loud groaning or whining noise from the power steering pump during low-speed parking, Steering feels heavy, sticky, or uneven when turning off-centre, Split or fluid-soaked rubber steering rack gaiters leaking hydraulic fluid

What to Inspect:
  • Inspect the power steering fluid reservoir; aerated or low fluid indicates an active leak
  • Check the steering rack boots and hydraulic line fittings for fluid weeping
  • Turn the steering wheel lock-to-lock with the engine running to check for smooth assistance
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research TeamUpdated

Buying Tips for 1996–1998 Alfa Romeo 155

  • On post-1995 16V Twin Spark models, demand proof that the cambelt, tensioner, and variator were replaced within 3 years or 36,000 miles.
  • Inspect the floorpans, sills, inner wings, and rear suspension mounting points thoroughly on a ramp for structural corrosion.
  • On wide-body models, check the quick-ratio power steering rack and hydraulic hoses for fluid leaks and pump groaning on full lock.
  • Test all electrical components, including electric front windows, central door locking, and dashboard instruments for intermittent earth faults.
  • On 2.5 V6 models, verify the condition of the water pump, timing belt idlers, and exhaust manifolds for cracks or blowing.
1995
Check a 1996–1998 Alfa Romeo 155 by Registration