The Alfa Romeo 155, with its distinctive boxy styling and touring car racing pedigree, holds a special place in the hearts of many Alfa enthusiasts. However, beneath that sporty exterior lies a car that needs constant attention, especially now, decades after it left the factory. Let's delve into the technical aspects to help you understand what owning a 155 in New Zealand entails.
Timing belt failure, high oil consumption, cooling system leaks, worn suspension components, brake system issues, rust, electrical problems, and difficult to source parts.
WOF tips
Check for compliance with NZTA standards for lights, brakes, and emissions. Pay close attention to the condition of tires and suspension components. Rust in critical structural areas is an automatic WOF failure. Ensure all lights, including indicators and brake lights, are functioning correctly. Check that the windscreen wipers are in good condition and effective. Be aware that modifications from the original specification (suspension, lights etc) may impact WOF compliance.
About the Alfa Romeo 155 V6
Engine options varied, but the 2.0-liter Twin Spark engine is a common sight. Regular timing belt changes are paramount to avoid catastrophic engine damage. These engines are also known for their thirst for oil, so careful monitoring is crucial. The cooling system, similar to other Alfas of this era, can be a weak point. Keep an eye out for leaks and ensure the radiator is in good condition. The fuel injection system requires regular maintenance to ensure optimal performance and fuel economy. Sensors can fail over time, leading to running issues. The suspension components, designed for sporty handling, can wear quickly, especially on rough New Zealand roads. Check for worn bushes, ball joints, and dampers. The braking system should be inspected regularly. Ensure calipers are in good condition and the brake lines are free from corrosion. Rust can be a significant problem, particularly in areas prone to dampness. Inspect the wheel arches, sills, and floorpan carefully. Parts availability for the 155 can be challenging in New Zealand. Sourcing components from overseas may be necessary, especially for body panels and trim pieces. The electrical system can be temperamental, with wiring faults and connector issues being common. Regular checks and preventative maintenance are key to keeping the 155 running smoothly.
Questions owners ask
What are the most critical maintenance items for an Alfa Romeo 155 1992–1997 with the 2.0-liter Twin Spark engine in New Zealand?
For your Alfa Romeo 155, regular timing belt changes are absolutely paramount to prevent catastrophic engine damage, especially with the 2.0-liter Twin Spark engine. You should also diligently monitor oil levels due to the engine's known thirst for oil. The cooling system is another weak point, so keep an eye out for leaks and ensure the radiator is in good condition. Given the 10,000km service interval, these checks should be part of your routine.
Where can I get replacement suspension components for my Alfa Romeo 155 1992–1997 in NZ, especially for worn bushes or ball joints?
Sourcing parts for the Alfa Romeo 155 in New Zealand can be challenging. While CARFIX stocks 189 SKUs, for specific suspension components like bushes, ball joints, or dampers that wear quickly on rough New Zealand roads, you might find it necessary to source components from overseas if local availability is limited. Always check with CARFIX first for available parts.
What should I be particularly careful about when getting a WOF for my Alfa Romeo 155 1992–1997 in New Zealand?
When getting a WOF for your Alfa Romeo 155, pay close attention to rust, as it can be a significant problem, particularly in areas like wheel arches, sills, and the floorpan. Rust in critical structural areas will result in an automatic WOF failure. Also, ensure all lights (including indicators and brake lights) are functioning, tyres and suspension components are in good condition, and windscreen wipers are effective. Be aware that any modifications from original specifications might impact compliance.
My Alfa Romeo 155 1992–1997 seems to be using a lot of oil. Is this normal?
Yes, the engines in the Alfa Romeo 155, particularly the 2.0-liter Twin Spark, are known for their thirst for oil. It's crucial to carefully monitor your oil levels regularly and top up as needed to prevent engine damage. This is a common characteristic of these engines.
What are common electrical issues I might encounter with my Alfa Romeo 155 1992–1997?
The electrical system in the Alfa Romeo 155 can be temperamental. Common issues include wiring faults and problems with connectors. Regular checks and preventative maintenance of the electrical system are key to keeping your 155 running smoothly and avoiding unexpected breakdowns.