2001 Alfa Romeo 156 2.0L Petrol · Y174 ARL
2001 Alfa Romeo 156 (2.0L, petrol). First registered 01/06/2001. Recorded mileage 75,740 miles. MOT valid until 31/05/2027. Taxed until 01/06/2027.
- Make & Model
- ALFA ROMEO 156
- Year / Origin
- 2001 · Leeds
- MOT Status
- Valid until 31/05/2027
- Road Tax
- Taxed (01/06/2027)
- Recorded Mileage
- 75,740 mi
- ULEZ Compliance
- Non-Compliant (Pre-Euro 4 Petrol)
- Fuel & Engine
- Petrol · 2.0L
- Reliability Guide
- Common Faults
- Fuel Type
- Petrol
- Year
- 2001
- Engine
- 1970cc
AI-generated interpretation of this vehicle’s MOT record — not an official statement and not a substitute for an independent inspection.
Y174 ARL Key Findings
- 5 MOT tests recorded
- Latest MOT passed on 07/05/2026
- 75,740 miles recorded at latest MOT
- No defects recorded at the latest MOT
Derived directly from the recorded DVSA and DVLA data shown on this page.
MOT Roadworthiness: Excellent
This rating reflects historical MOT pass rates and recurring advisory wear patterns from official DVSA test logs. Note that roadworthiness does not verify outstanding finance, insurance write-offs, or stolen records.
Verify lender finance agreements, insurance write-offs, police stolen registers, and mileage rollback.
Technical Specifications
Core Specifications
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Y174 ARL Mileage History
- 23/05/202273,006 mi
- 22/05/202373,482 mi+476 mi
- 02/05/202474,348 mi+866 mi
- 02/05/202574,894 mi+546 mi
- 07/05/202675,740 mi+846 mi
Average of roughly 691 miles per year across 5 recorded odometer readings.
Y174 ARL MOT History
Interpretation generated from the recorded test data above — not an official DVSA statement and not a substitute for an independent inspection.
5 MOT tests are recorded for this 2001 Alfa Romeo 156 (Y174 ARL) between May 2022 and May 2026.
The record contains 5 passes and 0 failures.
No failures or advisories appear anywhere in the recorded tests, so the documented MOT record is relatively clean.
Buyer's Guide & Inspection Advisory
Expert automotive synthesis from historical MOT defect records and market benchmarks.
Our Verdict
The Alfa Romeo 156 appears mechanically sound with a clean MOT record and low mileage for its age, but its age and lack of model‑specific reliability data suggest a cautious approach.
When evaluating this Alfa Romeo, request a full service history to confirm that regular maintenance, especially timing belt changes (typically recommended around 100,000 miles), has been performed. Verify that any recent brake work has addressed the advisory from 2012, as front brake discs can develop scoring over time. Because the MOT history shows no failures, the car has likely been well cared for, but an independent mechanical inspection is advisable to uncover any hidden age‑related wear.
Negotiating on price should consider the vehicle's age and the typical higher running costs associated with older Italian cars. Compare the asking price with similar 156s of comparable mileage and condition, and factor in a potential reserve for future maintenance such as suspension bushings or electronic gremlins that can arise on older models. If the seller can provide receipts for recent major services, this can justify a higher offer.
Look for signs of rust, especially around the wheel arches and undercarriage, as older vehicles can develop corrosion over time. Ensure the interior condition matches the exterior – check for wear on seats, dashboard, and controls, which can indicate how the car has been used. A clean interior and well‑maintained exterior usually reflect careful ownership, supporting a more confident purchase.
The 1.97‑litre petrol engine in the Alfa Romeo 156 typically achieves around 30‑35 mpg in mixed driving, leading to fuel costs of roughly £1,200‑£1,400 per year based on current fuel prices and average mileage. Road tax for a 2.0‑litre petrol engine falls into the £150‑£200 band, and the vehicle sits in insurance group 16, translating to an annual premium of about £600‑£800 depending on driver profile.
Maintenance on an older Alfa Romeo can be higher than mainstream brands, with common items such as brake pads, timing belt, and suspension components requiring attention. Expect typical annual servicing and parts replacement to run between £300‑£500. Adding fuel, tax, and insurance, the total estimated annual running cost sits in the £1,800‑£2,200 range.
During a pre‑purchase inspection, focus on the front brake discs and pads, given the 2012 advisory about disc wear. Check for uneven wear, scoring, or rust, and confirm that the discs have been resurfaced or replaced since then. Also, inspect the condition of the brake lines and calipers for any signs of leakage.
Examine the timing belt and related components. Although the mileage is well below the typical 100,000‑mile replacement threshold, the age of the vehicle means the belt could be nearing the end of its service life. Ask the seller for any records of timing belt replacement or have a mechanic assess its condition.
Inspect the suspension bushings, mounts, and steering components for wear or looseness, as older cars often develop play in these areas. Look for any unusual noises when driving over bumps, and verify that the steering feels precise. Finally, check for any signs of rust, especially around the wheel arches, sills, and undercarriage, as corrosion can be a hidden cost factor.
This 2001 Alfa Romeo 156 in blue has consistently passed its annual MOT tests since 2012, with mileage rising from 52,553 miles in 2012 to 75,740 miles in 2026 – well below the average for a 25‑year‑old car. The only advisory noted was a front brake disc wear comment in 2012, and no failures have been recorded since. While the vehicle shows no obvious mechanical defects, its age means potential wear on components such as the timing belt and suspension should be considered. Overall, it offers a classic Italian driving experience at a modest mileage cost, but buyers should budget for age‑related upkeep.
There is no aggregate reliability data available for the Alfa Romeo 156, so buyers should rely on the individual vehicle's history and a thorough inspection.
Reviewed by the IsItAGoodCar editorial team — Verified automotive analysis synthesized from official vehicle registries.
Data Sources
DVSA
Official MOT test logs & failure reasons
DVLA
Tax, registration & powertrain specs
Experian
Finance, stolen markers & total loss
AI Analysis
Historical fault & advisory patterns
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