IsItAGoodCar
Reliability Guide

Common Problems with the
2008 Alfa Romeo 159

The 2008 model year revamp cut 45kg, fitted the Q2 electronic limited-slip differential across the range and added a front-wheel-drive 3.2 V6. It sharpened the 159 without addressing its front subframe vulnerability.

What changed for 2008

  • •Dashboard, instrumentation and aluminium components revised, cutting 45kg
  • •Q2 electronic limited-slip differential made standard across the range
  • •3.2 V6 offered in front-wheel drive for the first time, with a 250km/h top speed
  • •Revised range debuted at the 2008 Geneva show with improved cabin materials

Common MOT watch-outs

  • !Front subframe corrosion remains the biggest failure risk
  • !Worn front wishbone bushes and inner tyre scrubbing
  • !Diesel DPF and EGR faults on Euro 4 cars used for short trips
4
Known Issues
3
Serious
1
Moderate
0
Minor

All Known Issues

Front Subframe Corrosion

SeriousSuspension & Chassis

The front subframes were poorly protected from the factory and are prone to severe rusting in the UK climate. Replacing one is expensive due to parts and labor.

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

MOT failure for structural corrosion, Visible holes or heavy scaling on the subframe

What to Inspect:
  • Get a specialist or MOT tester to inspect the subframe on a ramp before purchase
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M32 Gearbox Bearing Failure

SeriousGearbox & Transmission

The M32 6-speed gearbox used in 1.9 diesels and 2.2 petrols has weak bearings that fail over time, especially if the oil is not changed.

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

Whining in 5th/6th gear, Gear lever movement when lifting off throttle, Crunching into gears

What to Inspect:
  • Listen carefully at 50-70mph for a high-pitched whine
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Power Steering Rack Failure

SeriousSteering

Early cars used red steering fluid which damaged the rack seals. Many have been converted to green fluid, but the damage may already be done.

Est. Repair Cost: £500–£900
Warning Signs:

Groaning on full lock, Heavy steering, Loss of fluid in the reservoir

What to Inspect:
  • Check fluid color in reservoir (should be green)
  • Look for leaks on the rack boots
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Stretched Timing Chain (JTS Engines)

ModerateEngine

The 1.9 and 2.2 JTS petrol engines can suffer from stretched timing chains, often caused by long oil change intervals.

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

Check Engine Light (P0016 code), Rough running, Rattling on start-up

What to Inspect:
  • Ask when the chain was last replaced
  • Verify regular oil changes (every 10k miles max)
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Buying Tips for 2008 Alfa Romeo 159

  • Prefer a 2008-on car for the lighter dash and Q2 diff, but still check the subframe
  • Check the TI's 19-inch wheels for kerb damage and tyre matching
  • Verify the diesel's DPF history and look for regeneration invoices
20072009
Check a 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 by Registration