IsItAGoodCar
Reliability Guide

Common Problems with the
2007 Alfa Romeo 156

We've identified 3 known issues that can affect the 2007 Alfa Romeo 156. 2 of these are serious faults that could be expensive to repair.

3
Known Issues
2
Serious
1
Moderate
0
Minor

All Known Issues

Cam Variator Rattle and Cam Belt Wear

SeriousEngine

The Twin Spark engines on the 156 use a cam variator to adjust valve timing. When worn, it produces a distinctive diesel-like rattle on startup that lasts a few seconds. Alfa originally specified a 72,000-mile cam belt interval but reduced this to 36,000 miles from November 2006. A failed cam belt causes catastrophic engine damage.

Est. Repair Cost: £300–£600 (variator) / £800–£1,500 (engine rebuild if belt fails)
Warning Signs:

Distinctive diesel-like rattling noise from the engine on startup, Rattle persists for 2–5 seconds before settling, Reduced engine performance or rough idle

What to Inspect:
  • Start the engine from cold and listen for a rattling noise
  • Ask for cam belt and variator replacement invoices with dates and mileage
  • Verify the car is on the 36,000-mile interval if built after November 2006
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research TeamUpdated

V6 Water Pump Failure

SeriousCooling System

The 2.5 and 3.2 litre Busso V6 engines on the 156 use a water pump with a plastic impeller that can crack over time. This causes coolant loss, overheating and potential engine damage. Alfa Workshop recommends replacing the water pump at the same time as the cam belt, typically every 60,000 miles on V6 models.

Est. Repair Cost: £400–£800
Warning Signs:

Coolant loss with no visible external leak, Engine temperature gauge rising above normal, Steam or sweet smell from the engine bay, White deposits or staining around the water pump housing

What to Inspect:
  • Ask if the water pump was replaced with the last cam belt change
  • Inspect the coolant system for leaks or staining
  • Check the coolant header tank level and condition
  • Listen for unusual pump noise when the engine is running
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research TeamUpdated

Air Flow Meter Failure

ModerateEngine

The 156's air flow meter (MAF sensor) can fail, causing poor engine performance, hesitation, rough idle and increased fuel consumption. A faulty MAF sends incorrect airflow data to the ECU, resulting in incorrect fuelling. Replacement sensors cost around £120 and are a common fault on higher-mileage examples.

Est. Repair Cost: £120–£250
Warning Signs:

Hesitation or flat spots during acceleration, Rough or unstable idle, Poor fuel economy, Engine management light illuminated

What to Inspect:
  • Test drive from low RPM to check for hesitation or flat spots
  • Listen for an uneven or lumpy idle when the engine is warm
  • Scan for stored fault codes related to the air flow meter
  • Check if the MAF has been replaced previously
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research TeamUpdated

Buying Tips for 2007 Alfa Romeo 156

  • Verify cam belt replacement history — Alfa reduced the interval from 72,000 to 36,000 miles from November 2006.
  • Listen for a diesel-like rattle on startup from the Twin Spark cam variator.
  • Check front upper wishbones and rear suspension arm bushes for play and creaks.
  • Test all interior electrics — windows, mirrors, climate control and sunroof should all work.
  • On V6 models, confirm the water pump has been replaced with the cam belt.
Check a 2007 Alfa Romeo 156 by Registration