The Alfa Romeo 155, produced from 1992 to 1994 (for this specific range), was a sporty sedan designed to compete with the likes of BMW's E36. It offered distinctive Italian styling and a range of engines, but its reputation for reliability and challenges presented by New Zealand's climate and WOF regulations need to be carefully considered before purchasing.
• Rust: A significant concern, especially in coastal areas. Check wheel arches, sills, and around the windscreen. • Electrical Problems: Central locking, electric windows, and other electrical components can be prone to failure. • Engine Management: Sensors and ECU issues can lead to poor running and difficulty starting. • Suspension Wear: Components such as ball joints, bushings, and shock absorbers can wear quickly, especially on rough NZ roads. • Cooling System: Overheating can be a problem, particularly if the cooling system is not properly maintained.
WOF tips
• Rust: Any significant rust will cause a WOF failure. Pay particular attention to structural rust. • Suspension: Worn suspension components are a common cause of WOF failures. • Brakes: Check brake lines for corrosion and ensure adequate brake pad thickness. • Lights: Ensure all lights are functioning correctly, including headlights, taillights, and indicators. • Tyres: Ensure tyres meet minimum tread depth requirements.
About the Alfa Romeo 155 T.S.
The Alfa 155 boasts a distinctive wedge-shaped design and, in certain models, offers the characterful Alfa Romeo engines. However, they were known for requiring meticulous maintenance. Other engine options were available, including inline-four cylinder engines. The interior, can suffer from electrical gremlins and trim deterioration. Parts availability in New Zealand can be challenging and expensive, often requiring sourcing from overseas. Reliability is a common concern with these vehicles, especially electrical and rust.
Questions owners ask
What are the most common problems with a 1992-1994 Alfa Romeo 155 in New Zealand?
Owners of the Alfa Romeo 155 from 1992-1994 frequently report issues with rust, especially in coastal areas, electrical gremlins affecting central locking and electric windows, engine management problems due to sensor or ECU faults, and premature wear of suspension components like ball joints and bushings. The cooling system can also be a weak point, leading to overheating if not properly maintained.
Where can I get replacement parts for my Alfa Romeo 155 1992-1994 in NZ?
CARFIX stocks 87 SKUs for the Alfa Romeo 155 1992-1994. While parts availability can be challenging and expensive in New Zealand for this model, often requiring overseas sourcing for specific items, we recommend checking our inventory first for common maintenance parts. If we don't have it, we can often help you source it.
What should I look out for when buying a used Alfa Romeo 155 1992-1994 in New Zealand?
When purchasing a used Alfa Romeo 155 from 1992-1994, a thorough pre-purchase inspection is crucial. Pay particular attention to signs of rust, especially in wheel arches, sills, and around the windscreen. Carefully check all electrical components for functionality, as these are known trouble spots. Also, assess the condition of the suspension and the cooling system, as these can be costly to repair.
What are the WOF inspection points specific to the Alfa Romeo 155 1992-1994 in NZ?
For a Warrant of Fitness (WOF) inspection on your Alfa Romeo 155 1992-1994, particular attention will be paid to rust, especially structural rust, which is a common failure point. Worn suspension components are also a frequent cause of WOF failures. Ensure brake lines are free from corrosion and have adequate pad thickness. All lights, including headlights, taillights, and indicators, must be fully functional, and tyres must meet minimum tread depth requirements.
How often should I service my Alfa Romeo 155 1992-1994?
The recommended service interval for the Alfa Romeo 155 1992-1994 is every 10,000km. Given the vehicle's known need for meticulous maintenance, adhering strictly to this schedule is advisable to help prevent common issues.