Alfa Romeo Alfa 147 | History, Reliability & Buying Guide

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Alfa Romeo 147: A Comprehensive Buyer's Guide

The Alfa Romeo 147 is a small family car (C-segment in Europe) produced by the Italian automaker Alfa Romeo from 2000 to 2010. It replaced the Alfa Romeo 145 and 146 hatchbacks and was praised for its stylish design, engaging driving dynamics, and relatively affordable price point. Despite its strengths, it also had its share of reliability issues, which potential buyers should be aware of.

Generations & Key Changes

The Alfa 147 had one main generation, with a significant facelift during its production run. Here's a breakdown:

Pre-Facelift (2000-2004): Launched in 2000, featuring a distinctive Alfa Romeo design with round headlights and a sporty stance. Engines included petrol (1.6, 2.0 Twin Spark) and diesel (1.9 JTD) options. Interior design was praised, but build quality was an early concern.

Facelift (2004-2010): A mid-life refresh brought revised front and rear styling, aligning it with the then-current Alfa Romeo design language, like the 159. Headlights became more angular, the grille was redesigned, and the interior received minor updates. Improved soundproofing and tweaks to suspension and steering were also implemented. A higher-performance GTA variant was also available. The JTDM diesel engines gained prominence and improved fuel efficiency.

Reliability & Common Issues

The Alfa 147, like many Italian cars of its era, is known for having potential reliability issues. Thorough inspection and maintenance records are crucial when considering a purchase.

Engine Problems:

Twin Spark Engines (1.6 & 2.0): These are notorious for oil consumption, especially if not maintained meticulously. Watch out for blue smoke from the exhaust, indicating burning oil. Cam belt changes are absolutely critical and should be done on time (every 36,000 miles or 3 years, whichever comes first). Failure to do so can lead to catastrophic engine damage. Variator problems (variable valve timing) are common, leading to a rattling noise on start-up.

JTD/JTDM Diesel Engines (1.9): Generally more robust than the petrol engines, but still have potential issues. Common Rail injectors can fail, causing poor performance and fuel economy. Turbocharger failure is possible, especially on higher-mileage examples. Swirl flaps in the intake manifold can break and cause engine damage (though many owners delete these as a preventative measure). Diesel Particulate Filters (DPFs) can become clogged, particularly on cars used for short trips.

Cooling System: The cooling system is a weak point. Check for leaks around the radiator, hoses, and thermostat housing. Overheating can cause significant engine damage.

Electrical Problems:

Electronics: Alfa Romeos of this era are known for electrical gremlins. Check that all lights, switches, and the infotainment system (if equipped) are functioning correctly. Error messages on the dashboard can be misleading, so a diagnostic scan is recommended.

Central Locking & Alarm: These can be problematic, leading to false alarms or difficulty locking/unlocking the car.

Suspension & Steering:

Suspension Wear: The suspension components, especially the lower wishbones, are prone to wear, leading to knocking noises and poor handling. Check for play in the ball joints and bushings.

Power Steering: Power steering pumps can fail, resulting in heavy steering.

Bodywork & Interior:

Rust: While not as prone to rust as some older Italian cars, check for rust, especially around the wheel arches, sills, and underbody.

Interior Wear: The interior trim can be fragile. Check for wear on the seats, dashboard, and door panels.

Sticky Plastics: Some interior plastics can become sticky and degrade over time.

Driving Experience

The Alfa 147 excels in its driving dynamics. It's a car that feels engaging and fun to drive, offering a sporty experience that many competitors couldn't match.

Pros:

Sharp Handling: The 147 has a responsive chassis and well-weighted steering, making it a pleasure to drive on twisty roads.

Stylish Design: The Alfa Romeo design language is distinctive and attractive, making the 147 a visually appealing car.

Engaging Engines: The engines, especially the Twin Spark petrols and the JTD diesels, offer a good balance of performance and fuel economy (depending on model and condition).

Comfortable Interior: The interior is generally comfortable, with supportive seats and a well-laid-out dashboard.

Cons:

Reliability Issues: As mentioned earlier, reliability is a major concern.

Running Costs: Due to potential maintenance and repair costs, running an Alfa 147 can be more expensive than running some of its rivals.

Practicality: While a hatchback, the 147's rear passenger space and boot capacity are not class-leading.

Buying Advice

Buying an Alfa 147 requires careful consideration. Here's some advice to help you make an informed decision:

Facelift Models (2004-2010): Generally, the facelift models are a better choice due to improved build quality, updated styling, and refined suspension.

Engine Choice: The 1.9 JTDM diesel is often considered the most reliable engine option, but ensure it has been properly maintained and that the DPF is functioning correctly. If you prefer petrol, the 1.6 Twin Spark can be a good choice if meticulously maintained, including frequent oil changes and timely cam belt replacements. The 2.0 Twin Spark offers more power, but also more potential for problems.

GTA Model: The GTA is a high-performance variant with a 3.2-liter V6 engine. It's a desirable car, but maintenance and running costs are significantly higher.

Check the Service History: A full and comprehensive service history is essential. Look for evidence of regular maintenance, including cam belt changes, oil changes, and cooling system servicing.

Pre-Purchase Inspection: Get a thorough pre-purchase inspection from a qualified mechanic who is familiar with Alfa Romeos. They can identify potential problems that may not be immediately obvious.

Test Drive Thoroughly: Pay attention to the engine's performance, the suspension's behavior, and the operation of all electrical systems during the test drive.

Budget Accordingly: Be prepared for potential maintenance and repair costs. Set aside a budget for unexpected repairs, as they are more likely to occur with an older Alfa Romeo.

Consider Insurance Costs: Check insurance costs before buying, as they can be higher for Alfa Romeos.

Ultimately, buying an Alfa 147 is a decision that should be made with eyes wide open. While it offers a rewarding driving experience and a stylish design, it's crucial to be aware of the potential reliability issues and running costs. With careful research, a thorough inspection, and a well-maintained example, you can enjoy the unique charm of the Alfa Romeo 147.
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