The Alfa Romeo 155, produced from 1992 to 1996, 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. Sport
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 issues I should look out for with a 1992-1996 Alfa Romeo 155 in New Zealand?
Owners of the Alfa Romeo 155 in New Zealand frequently report issues with rust, particularly in coastal areas and around wheel arches, sills, and windscreens. Electrical problems, including central locking and electric windows, are also common. Engine management issues due to faulty sensors or ECU problems can lead to poor running, and suspension components like ball joints and bushings tend to wear quickly on NZ roads. Overheating due to cooling system problems is another concern.
Will rust be a problem for my Alfa Romeo 155 when getting a WOF in New Zealand?
Yes, rust is a significant concern for the Alfa Romeo 155 and will definitely cause a WOF failure if it's structural or extensive. Inspectors will pay close attention to areas like wheel arches, sills, and around the windscreen. A thorough pre-purchase inspection is highly recommended to identify any existing rust issues.
Where can I get replacement suspension components for my 1992-1996 Alfa Romeo 155 in NZ?
CARFIX stocks 98 SKUs for the Alfa Romeo 155, and while specific suspension components might be available, parts availability for these older European cars in New Zealand can be challenging. You may need to source specific items like ball joints, bushings, or shock absorbers from overseas if not readily available locally. Always check with CARFIX first for their current stock.
How often should I service my Alfa Romeo 155?
The recommended service interval for the Alfa Romeo 155 is every 10,000km. Given the vehicle's known reliability concerns, especially with the cooling system and engine management, adhering strictly to this schedule is crucial for maintaining its performance and preventing more serious issues.
Are electrical problems common in the Alfa Romeo 155, and what should I check?
Yes, electrical gremlins are a well-known characteristic of the Alfa Romeo 155. Common issues include failures with central locking, electric windows, and other interior electrical components. Before purchasing, or if you own one, thoroughly test all electrical systems, as these can be costly and difficult to diagnose and repair.
What should I look for during a pre-purchase inspection of an Alfa Romeo 155 in New Zealand?
A thorough pre-purchase inspection is strongly recommended for the Alfa Romeo 155. Pay particular attention to rust, especially in wheel arches, sills, and around the windscreen, as this is a common WOF failure point. Also, meticulously check all electrical components for functionality, as electrical gremlins are prevalent. Inspect suspension components for wear and tear, and check for any signs of engine management issues or cooling system problems.