What should I look out for on the Alfa 159?

Hi, could you please tell me what to look out for when buying an Alfa Romeo 159 estate - 2008/2009 model?

Ruairi Mc Carthy (Mullagh Co Cavan)

Nov 2014 Filed under: reliability

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Expert answer

Hi Ruairi,

You're expecting me to say 'everything' aren't you? 

Well, actually, 159s are pretty well built and when they do suffer from old-school Alfa flakiness, it tends to be more on a car-by-car basis. So the best trick is to talk to the previous owner. If the car gave them no major trouble, then it's probably a good 'un.

The critical check point is anything electric. Wiper motors are weak and the cruise control can freak out easily and take a good long test drive to make sure that the engine always delivers its power smoothly and consistently. If it doesn't then the ECU could be on the way out. 

Finally, if the front tyres are showing signs of uneven wear, then the front suspension is out of alignment and needs sorting.

Best of luck

Neil Briscoe - Complete Car Adviser
@neilmbriscoe