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Alfa Romeo · Mid-Size · 1997–2006 Custom Search

Alfa Romeo 156 932

Weaknesses, engine ratings and buying advice

3.0 / 5.0 · Based on 13 engine variants · How we rate
Most Fun Engine

250 PS

3.2 V6 GTA · Benzin

Busso GTA as Saloon — Elegant, Fast, Without ESP

Legendary!

Body Variants

The Alfa Romeo 156 932 is available as Sedan and Wagon — choose your body type for specific insurance data:


Engine Overview

The Alfa Romeo 156 932 is available with 11 engine variants — from 105 to 250 hp. 3 variants had engine changes — the model year is crucial.

1.9 JTD · Diesel· 110–116 PS
1997 2006

The 1.9-litre JTD is Alfa's bread-and-butter diesel — 100–115 hp from an 8V turbodiesel with common rail injection. Frugal (5–6 l/100 km), torque-rich from 2,000 rpm, but without the character of the petrol engines. Turbo failure at high mileage (from 150,000 km) and DPF issues with mainly short-trip use are the main concerns. Injectors long-lived on clean diesel, timing belt every 60,000 km. Practical engine for high-mileage drivers without Alfa-typical emotions.

  • !! Oil pump seal loses elasticity from 100,000 km

    The O-ring on the oil pump suction pipe (part no. 71754365) loses elasticity over time. Air enters the oil pump and causes oil pressure drop — particularly critical for the turbocharger.

    Symptoms: Oil pressure warning, turbo damage shortly after replacement, metallic knocking
    50–200 $
  • !! High-pressure fuel pump failed (code P1191) from 180,000 km

    The common-rail high-pressure pump on the 1.9 JTD 16V fails sporadically with fault code P1191. Replace the pressure control valve (~15 €) and rail pressure sensor first, as both can cause the same fault. Rule out a faulty sensor before condemning the pump.

    Symptoms: Engine dies while driving, warning light P1191, fuel smell, engine restarts after a few seconds
    400–1,200 $
  • !! VTG mechanism coked and jammed from 120,000 km

    The variable-geometry turbocharger (VTG) clogs with soot and rust. The vane ring jams, leading to unstable boost pressure, power loss, and engine warning light (P0236).

    Symptoms: Power loss, fluctuating boost pressure, engine warning light, black smoke on acceleration
    200–1,500 $

+ 3 more engine weaknesses + vehicle weaknesses

1.9 JTD 16V · Diesel· 136–140 PS
1997 2006

The 1.9-litre JTD 16V with 150 hp is the stronger version of Alfa's diesel — 16 valves instead of 8 deliver more power and a slightly more refined character. 305 Nm of torque make it a capable daily driver. Turbo and injectors are wear items at high mileage. DPF regeneration is problematic with mainly short-trip use. For long-distance and motorway driving, the most sensible Alfa diesel of its era.

  • !! Oil pump O-ring pressure loss from 80,000 km

    The rubber O-ring on the oil pump suction pipe loses its elasticity from around 80,000 km, allowing air into the pump. Initially only noticeable on cold starts; in extreme cases an oil pressure drop can lead to engine damage.

    Symptoms: Oil pressure warning shortly after start, faint ticking on cold start, rarely engine warning light
    80–250 $
  • !! VTG mechanism coked up and jammed from 120,000 km

    The VTG turbocharger clogs up with soot and rust. The adjustment ring jams, leading to power loss and unstable boost pressure.

    Symptoms: Power loss, fluctuating boost pressure, engine warning light
    200–1,500 $
  • !! Vacuum pump gasket oil leak from 100,000 km

    The gasket between the vacuum pump and cylinder head as well as the square O-ring on the pump housing begin to leak over time. Oil drops on the manifold cause smoke and an unpleasant smell inside the cabin.

    Symptoms: Oil smell in the cabin, blue oily smoke after switching off, visible oil traces on the cylinder head
    100–300 $

+ 2 more engine weaknesses + vehicle weaknesses

2.4 JTD · Diesel· 136–150 PS Engine Change
1997 2002

Five-cylinder diesel with 2.4 litres and 135–140 hp — the five-cylinder firing order gives the engine an odd, slightly uneven character that sets it apart from the smoother four-cylinders. Strong torque (304 Nm) that moves the heavy 156 with ease. Timing belt every 60,000 km, turbo issues from mid-range mileage. The five-cylinder is more expensive to maintain than the 1.9 JTD but offers better pull for motorway overtaking.

  • !! Timing belt breaks — catastrophic engine damage from 130,000 km

    The 2.4 JTD is considered one of the most damage-prone Alfa engine variants. A broken timing belt destroys rocker arms and bends valves. At 180,000 km, 16 of 20 rocker arms have been found broken. The 100,000 km interval must be strictly observed; replace the tensioner at the same time.

    Symptoms: Engine cuts out suddenly and will not restart, loud bang from the engine bay beforehand is possible.
    1,500–5,000 $
  • !! Dual mass flywheel wears out from 150,000 km

    The dual mass flywheel on the 2.4 JTD wears out at high mileage. Typical cost for clutch and flywheel kit: €1,000–2,000.

    Symptoms: Vibrations when pulling away and at idle, rattling when declutching, rough running
    800–2,000 $
  • !! Intake manifold coked up by EGR from 120,000 km

    Soot deposits from the EGR system coke up the intake manifold. Swirl flaps can break and enter the engine, causing severe engine damage.

    Symptoms: Power loss, black smoke, swirl flap rattling, potential engine damage
    300–1,500 $

+ 4 more engine weaknesses + vehicle weaknesses

2002 2006

Developed 2.4-litre five-cylinder JTD with 150–175 hp — more power and better refinement than its predecessor AR32501. The five-cylinder sound remains odd and unmistakeable: not as smooth as a six, not as coarse as a four. 385 Nm in the 175 hp version. Timing belt interval as before every 60,000 km — a frequent workshop visit for an engine expected to cover high mileages.

  • !! Dual-mass flywheel wearing out from 150,000 km

    Dual-mass flywheel wears at high mileage. Clutch and flywheel kit typically costs €1,000–2,000.

    Symptoms: Vibrations on pull-away, rattling when declutching, rough idle
    800–2,000 $
  • !! Intake manifold coked up by EGR from 120,000 km

    EGR recirculation causes carbon build-up in the intake manifold. Swirl flap breakage can cause severe engine damage.

    Symptoms: Power loss, black smoke, possible swirl flap failure
    300–1,500 $
  • !! Glow plugs seized — difficult removal from 100,000 km

    On the 2.4 JTD 10V the glow plugs can seize in the cylinder head due to corrosion and snap off when removed. A broken glow plug requires tedious re-drilling or a cylinder head replacement.

    Symptoms: Poor cold start, glow light stays on permanently, cold-start problems in winter
    150–600 $

+ 3 more engine weaknesses + vehicle weaknesses

2.4 JTDM · Diesel· 175 PS
2003 2006

The JTDM version of the 2.4-litre five-cylinder — 200 hp in the top version, the most powerful diesel in the 156 range. Multijet injection with multiple injection events per power stroke for better combustion and less noise. The five-cylinder runs more refinedly than the older JTD versions but remains maintenance-intensive. DPF and turbo are the main wear items.

  • !! High-pressure pump defective from 160,000 km

    The high-pressure pump requires a constant feed pressure of 3–5 bar. If the pre-feed or the pump itself fails, sufficient rail pressure cannot be built. Complete failure leads to engine stall. Repair or replacement is very costly.

    Symptoms: Difficult cold start, rough idle, engine will not start, power drop with cold engine
    600–1,800 $
  • !! Dual-mass flywheel wearing out from 150,000 km

    Dual-mass flywheel wears at high mileage. Repair costs including clutch typically €1,000–2,000.

    Symptoms: Vibrations on pull-away, rattling when declutching
    800–2,000 $
  • !! DPF clogging on short trips from 100,000 km

    The diesel particulate filter clogs with predominantly short-trip driving because regeneration temperatures are not reached. Forced regeneration or replacement is required.

    Symptoms: Engine warning light, power loss, increased fuel consumption, limp mode
    500–2,000 $

+ 3 more engine weaknesses + vehicle weaknesses

1.6 TS · Petrol· 110–120 PS Engine Change
1997 2006

Typical Alfa Twin Spark engine with two spark plugs per cylinder for clean combustion and better throttle response. The 1.6-litre four-cylinder produces 105–120 hp depending on version and revs willingly to over 6,000 rpm — more character than any comparable VW engine of that era. The Twin Spark technology (twin spark plugs, two inlet valves of different sizes) improves flame propagation and reduces knock tendency. Known weak point: the camshaft phaser tends to diesel-like knocking on cold start. Timing belt change every 60,000 km or 4 years — a mandatory appointment, not negotiable.

  • !! Short timing belt intervals from 60,000 km

    Alfa originally recommended 120,000 km and shortened the interval several times down to 60,000 km or 5 years. Exceeding the interval risks engine damage through piston-to-valve contact.

    Symptoms: No warning — engine suddenly refuses to start or makes a loud crack
    350–700 $
  • !! Head gasket leaking (cylinder 4) from 130,000 km

    The O-rings of the oil galleries between head and block (perbunan) swell and deform when exposed to engine oil. Cylinder 4 is particularly affected: coolant enters the oil, visible as milky emulsion on the oil filler cap.

    Symptoms: Milky residue on oil filler cap or dipstick, coolant consumption without external leak, white smoke from exhaust on a warm engine.
    600–1,400 $
  • !! Con-rod bearing damage from oil starvation from 150,000 km

    Insufficient oil supply (missed oil changes, oil loss) leads to con-rod bearing failure. The crankshaft then needs to be reground/polished. Repair costs €700–1,000 for machining plus bearings; severe damage requires engine replacement.

    Symptoms: Loud knocking or hammering from engine (especially under load), oil pressure warning light, noticeable power loss.
    800–3,000 $

+ 5 more engine weaknesses + vehicle weaknesses

1997 2006

Later version of the 1.6-litre Twin Spark with 120 hp and optimised fuelling. Like all Twin Spark engines fitted with two spark plugs per cylinder, improving response in the upper rev range. More willing to rev than comparable competitors, but not a torque hero: the power only really comes in above 4,000 rpm. Phaser issues and timing belt interval as for the AR37203. A long-lived engine with good maintenance — regular oil changes and timely belt service are rewarded.

  • !! Short timing belt intervals from 60,000 km

    Alfa originally recommended 120,000 km and shortened the interval several times down to 60,000 km or 5 years. Exceeding the interval risks engine damage through piston-to-valve contact.

    Symptoms: No warning — engine suddenly refuses to start or makes a loud crack
    350–700 $
  • !! Head gasket leaking (cylinder 4) from 130,000 km

    The O-rings of the oil galleries between head and block (perbunan) swell and deform when exposed to engine oil. Cylinder 4 is particularly affected: coolant enters the oil, visible as milky emulsion on the oil filler cap.

    Symptoms: Milky residue on oil filler cap or dipstick, coolant consumption without external leak, white smoke from exhaust on a warm engine.
    600–1,400 $
  • !! Con-rod bearing damage from oil starvation from 150,000 km

    Insufficient oil supply (missed oil changes, oil loss) leads to con-rod bearing failure. The crankshaft then needs to be reground/polished. Repair costs €700–1,000 for machining plus bearings; severe damage requires engine replacement.

    Symptoms: Loud knocking or hammering from engine (especially under load), oil pressure warning light, noticeable power loss.
    800–3,000 $

+ 5 more engine weaknesses + vehicle weaknesses

1.8 TS · Petrol· 140–144 PS
1997 2006

The 1.8-litre Twin Spark produces 140 hp and sits between the mild 1.6 and the characterful 2.0 — a good all-round compromise. Same Twin Spark technology with twin spark plugs, same rev temperament to 6,500 rpm. In the GTV and Spider the engine sounds more characterful than in the closed 156 cabin. Phaser susceptibility lower than the 2.0, timing belt change identical at 60,000 km. Consumption moderate (8–10 l/100 km), power adequate for daily use.

  • !! Short timing belt intervals from 60,000 km

    Alfa originally recommended 120,000 km and shortened the interval several times to 60,000 km or 5 years. Belt failure causes total engine destruction through piston-to-valve contact.

    Symptoms: No warning — engine suddenly refuses to start or loud crack on belt failure
    400–800 $
  • !! Head gasket leaking (cylinder 4) from 130,000 km

    The O-rings of the oil galleries between head and block (perbunan) swell and deform when exposed to engine oil. Cylinder 4 is particularly affected: coolant enters the oil, visible as milky emulsion on the oil filler cap.

    Symptoms: Milky residue on oil filler cap or dipstick, coolant consumption without external leak, white smoke from exhaust on a warm engine.
    600–1,400 $
  • !! Con-rod bearing damage from oil starvation from 150,000 km

    Insufficient oil supply (missed oil changes, oil loss) leads to con-rod bearing failure. The crankshaft then needs to be reground/polished. Repair costs €700–1,000 for machining plus bearings; severe damage requires engine replacement.

    Symptoms: Loud knocking or hammering from engine (especially under load), oil pressure warning light, noticeable power loss.
    800–3,000 $

+ 5 more engine weaknesses + vehicle weaknesses

2.0 JTS · Petrol· 162–166 PS
2001 2006

The 2.0-litre JTS (Jet Thrust Stoichiometric) was Alfa's first direct injection engine — pioneering work that came with typical early-adopter issues. 165 hp at 6,400 rpm, rev-happy with better throttle response than the Twin Spark engines. However, the direct injection introduces fuel dilution into the oil — shortened service intervals (8,000–10,000 km instead of 15,000) are mandatory. Injector issues and inlet valve carbonisation are the most common repair topics. More modern than the Twin Spark but higher maintenance demands.

  • !! Timing belt also drives the high-pressure pump from 60,000 km

    The timing belt on the 2.0 JTS also drives the high-pressure fuel pump, placing it under higher load than on other TS engines. Shorter intervals and strict adherence are mandatory.

    Symptoms: No warning before breakage, engine will not restart, total engine damage possible
    500–1,000 $
  • !! High-pressure fuel pump failed (code P1191) from 180,000 km

    The common-rail high-pressure pump can wear internally and fail to build adequate rail pressure. Fault code P1191 (fuel pressure) appears sporadically. Check the pressure control valve and rail pressure sensor first, as they can cause identical faults.

    Symptoms: Engine dies while driving above ~100 km/h, warning light with P1191, fuel smell without visible leak, occasional stumbling
    400–1,200 $
  • !! Carbon deposits on intake valves from 80,000 km

    Direct injection (JTS) prevents petrol from cleaning the intake valves. Deposits form from around 80,000 km, especially with short-trip driving, leading to misfires.

    Symptoms: Rough engine running, power loss, misfires, elevated fuel consumption
    400–1,200 $

+ 4 more engine weaknesses + vehicle weaknesses

2.0 TS · Petrol· 150–162 PS Engine Change
1997 2006

The most common Alfa engine of the late 1990s — 2.0-litre Twin Spark with 150–155 hp. Two spark plugs per cylinder, variable valve timing, revs to 7,000 rpm with a sound noticeably more characterful than anything from VW or Opel of the era. The Selespeed variant (automated manual gearbox) has a bad reputation for hydraulic issues and jerky shifting — the manual is strongly preferable. Phaser failure is the best-known weak point: diesel-like knocking at idle, repair around €300–500. Timing belt every 60,000 km mandatory.

  • !! Short timing belt intervals from 60,000 km

    Alfa shortened the timing belt interval several times to 60,000 km or 5 years. Belt failure causes engine damage without warning.

    Symptoms: Engine suddenly impossible to start, loud metallic noise on belt failure
    400–900 $
  • !! Head gasket leaking (cylinder 4) from 130,000 km

    The O-rings of the oil galleries between head and block (perbunan) swell and deform when exposed to engine oil. Cylinder 4 is particularly affected: coolant enters the oil, visible as milky emulsion on the oil filler cap.

    Symptoms: Milky residue on oil filler cap or dipstick, coolant consumption without external leak, white smoke from exhaust on a warm engine.
    600–1,400 $
  • !! Con-rod bearing damage from oil starvation from 150,000 km

    Insufficient oil supply (missed oil changes, oil loss) leads to con-rod bearing failure. The crankshaft then needs to be reground/polished. Repair costs €700–1,000 for machining plus bearings; severe damage requires engine replacement.

    Symptoms: Loud knocking or hammering from engine (especially under load), oil pressure warning light, noticeable power loss.
    800–3,000 $

+ 5 more engine weaknesses + vehicle weaknesses

1997 2006

Earlier version of the 2.0-litre Twin Spark with 150 hp — technically very similar to the AR32310 but without the later valve timing optimisations. Rev-happy, characterful sound, with the typical Twin Spark personality. Timing belt and phaser as the main weak points. The engine lasts well past 200,000 km with consistent maintenance.

  • !! Short timing belt intervals from 60,000 km

    Alfa shortened the timing belt interval several times to 60,000 km or 5 years. Belt failure causes engine damage without warning.

    Symptoms: Engine suddenly impossible to start, loud metallic noise on belt failure
    400–900 $
  • !! Head gasket leaking (cylinder 4) from 130,000 km

    The O-rings of the oil galleries between head and block (perbunan) swell and deform when exposed to engine oil. Cylinder 4 is particularly affected: coolant enters the oil, visible as milky emulsion on the oil filler cap.

    Symptoms: Milky residue on oil filler cap or dipstick, coolant consumption without external leak, white smoke from exhaust on a warm engine.
    600–1,400 $
  • !! Con-rod bearing damage from oil starvation from 150,000 km

    Insufficient oil supply (missed oil changes, oil loss) leads to con-rod bearing failure. The crankshaft then needs to be reground/polished. Repair costs €700–1,000 for machining plus bearings; severe damage requires engine replacement.

    Symptoms: Loud knocking or hammering from engine (especially under load), oil pressure warning light, noticeable power loss.
    800–3,000 $

+ 5 more engine weaknesses + vehicle weaknesses

2.0 TS Selespeed · Petrol· 150–155 PS
1997 2006

The most common Alfa engine of the late 1990s — 2.0-litre Twin Spark with 150–155 hp. Two spark plugs per cylinder, variable valve timing, revs to 7,000 rpm with a sound noticeably more characterful than anything from VW or Opel of the era. The Selespeed variant (automated manual gearbox) has a bad reputation for hydraulic issues and jerky shifting — the manual is strongly preferable. Phaser failure is the best-known weak point: diesel-like knocking at idle, repair around €300–500. Timing belt every 60,000 km mandatory.

  • !! Short timing belt intervals from 60,000 km

    Alfa shortened the timing belt interval several times to 60,000 km or 5 years. Belt failure causes engine damage without warning.

    Symptoms: Engine suddenly impossible to start, loud metallic noise on belt failure
    400–900 $
  • !! Head gasket leaking (cylinder 4) from 130,000 km

    The O-rings of the oil galleries between head and block (perbunan) swell and deform when exposed to engine oil. Cylinder 4 is particularly affected: coolant enters the oil, visible as milky emulsion on the oil filler cap.

    Symptoms: Milky residue on oil filler cap or dipstick, coolant consumption without external leak, white smoke from exhaust on a warm engine.
    600–1,400 $
  • !! Con-rod bearing damage from oil starvation from 150,000 km

    Insufficient oil supply (missed oil changes, oil loss) leads to con-rod bearing failure. The crankshaft then needs to be reground/polished. Repair costs €700–1,000 for machining plus bearings; severe damage requires engine replacement.

    Symptoms: Loud knocking or hammering from engine (especially under load), oil pressure warning light, noticeable power loss.
    800–3,000 $

+ 5 more engine weaknesses + vehicle weaknesses

2.5 V6 · Petrol· 190–192 PS
1997 2003

The 2.5-litre V6 is the smaller sibling of the Busso V6 — same 60-degree architecture, same DOHC 24V layout, same layered sound, just in smaller displacement. 190 hp at 6,300 rpm, less torque than the 3.0 but lighter and better balanced in the 156. The 60-degree sound is unmistakably Busso even at 2.5 litres — howling, multi-voiced, addictive. Timing belt every 60,000 km, running costs lower than the 3.0/3.2. An affordable entry point into the Busso V6 world.

  • !! Strict timing belt interval required from 60,000 km

    The Busso 2.5 V6 requires a strict timing belt change every 5 years. Missed maintenance leads to total engine failure.

    Symptoms: No warning on belt failure, instant engine destruction
    600–1,300 $
  • !! Low oil pressure at hot idle from 180,000 km

    At higher mileages and with unsuitable oil (too little ZDDP/zinc content), camshaft and main bearings wear faster. Oil pressure at warm idle below 0.5 bar is critical.

    Symptoms: Oil pressure warning light at warm idle, faint ticking from the valvetrain, elevated oil consumption.
    800–4,000 $
  • !! Water pump and thermostat wear from 90,000 km

    The water pump sits behind the timing belt and should be renewed at every timing belt change. The thermostat does not open cleanly, leading to temperature fluctuations. Overheating can damage the head gasket.

    Symptoms: Temperature gauge rises above 100 °C or fluctuates, coolant level drops slowly, cooling fan runs frequently.
    200–600 $

+ 3 more engine weaknesses + vehicle weaknesses

3.2 V6 GTA · Petrol· 250 PS
2002 2006

The last true Busso V6 — 3,179 cc, 60-degree bank angle, DOHC 24V with variable intake. The irregular firing interval of the 60-degree V6 creates the layered, multi-voiced sound that makes the engine the 'Stradivarius among six-cylinders'. The engine only really wakes up above 4,500 rpm — then it howls to 7,200 rpm with a sound no other production six-cylinder can reproduce. 300 Nm only at 4,800 rpm: not an engine for the lazy-shifting. 10W-60 oil is mandatory without exception — thinner oils deliver insufficient pressure to the chain tensioners. Three timing chains (one primary, two secondary), no belt. Chain kit hard to source, replacement only possible with engine removed. With conscientious maintenance, 300,000+ km is achievable — documented examples with over 400,000 km exist.

  • !! Timing chain rattles when cold from 80,000 km

    The timing chain of the 3.2 V6 (successor to the Busso in the 147/156 GTA) tends to rattle on cold starts from around 80,000 km. Parts availability is limited.

    Symptoms: Metallic rattle on cold start that diminishes or persists after warm-up
    1,500–5,000 $
  • !! Catastrophic belt failure on missed service from 96,000 km

    The Busso V6 timing belt must be changed every 5 years or 96,000 km. If it breaks, instant engine destruction follows through valve failure — no interference-engine buffer. Many used examples have no documented service history for this interval.

    Symptoms: No warning. Engine dies abruptly while driving. Starter spins without compression.
    800–6,000 $
  • !! Intake manifold air leak from cracked gasket from 120,000 km

    The paper gasket between the intake manifold and throttle body ages and tears — air leaks lead to hot combustion that can, in extreme cases, burn valves or melt holes in the piston crown. A gradual process.

    Symptoms: Unstable idle, poor throttle response, power loss in upper rev range. In extreme cases, misfires.
    50–300 $

+ 7 more engine weaknesses + vehicle weaknesses

Vehicle Weaknesses

WeaknessCost
Rear spring perch rusts through

The rear spring perch rusts through at the weld seams, which can lead to complete failure of the spring seat. The spring perch can drop onto the tyre and destroy it. Safety-critical — regular visual inspection in the wheel arch is necessary.

Symptoms: Creaking rear axle, vehicle sinking on one side, in extreme cases spring perch visible on tyre
from 180,000 km
Medium
Footwell rust and concealed sill corrosion

Footwell floor and sills rust from the inside outwards. Rust is often concealed by carpet or sill trim covers. Jacking points on the underbody are also heavily affected. Lift the carpet on purchase inspection.

Symptoms: Rust visible under carpet, bubbles on sill lower edges, jacking points crumbling
from 100,000 km
High
Sill and underbody rust

Sill edges, wheel arch transitions, jacking points and underbody rust heavily. Underbody protection peels off early. Internal rust inspection through the ventilation duct in the rear area is recommended.

Symptoms: Visible rust on sill edges and bumper transitions, paint bubbling, sill deformation.
from 100,000 km
High

Test Reports

vergleichstest

Used Car Test 2015

Average

The 156 prioritises design and driving dynamics at the expense of long-term durability. Rust sets in noticeably earlier than the class average, and in its eleventh year of operation the corrosion level is considerably above the mean. Diesel engines are prone to turbocharger damage, petrol engines to timing belt failures.

2015-01

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Known Problems and Issues +

A total of 105 weaknesses have been documented for the Alfa Romeo 156 932 (1997–2006) — 93 engine-related and 12 vehicle-related. Typical issues affect Rust, Gearbox, Suspension, Electronics.

156 (937A2.000, 1997–2006) — Be Careful: Oil pump seal loses elasticity, High-pressure fuel pump failed (code P1191), VTG mechanism coked and jammed. Power: 110–116 PS.

156 (192A5.000, 1997–2006) — Be Careful: Oil pump O-ring pressure loss, VTG mechanism coked up and jammed, Vacuum pump gasket oil leak. Power: 136–140 PS.

156 (AR32501, 1997–2002) — Be Careful: Timing belt breaks — catastrophic engine damage, Dual mass flywheel wears out, Intake manifold coked up by EGR. Power: 136–140 PS.

156 (841C000, 2002–2006) — Be Careful: Dual-mass flywheel wearing out, Intake manifold coked up by EGR, Glow plugs seized — difficult removal. Power: 150 PS.

156 (841G.000, 2003–2006) — Be Careful: High-pressure pump defective, Dual-mass flywheel wearing out, DPF clogging on short trips. Power: 175 PS.

156 (AR37203, 1997–2006) — Be Careful: Short timing belt intervals, Head gasket leaking (cylinder 4), Con-rod bearing damage from oil starvation. Power: 110–111 PS.

156 (AR32104, 1997–2006) — Be Careful: Short timing belt intervals, Head gasket leaking (cylinder 4), Con-rod bearing damage from oil starvation. Power: 120 PS.

156 (AR32310, 1997–2006) — Be Careful: Short timing belt intervals, Head gasket leaking (cylinder 4), Con-rod bearing damage from oil starvation. Power: 150–155 PS.

156 (AR32201, 1997–2006) — Be Careful: Short timing belt intervals, Head gasket leaking (cylinder 4), Con-rod bearing damage from oil starvation. Power: 140–144 PS.

156 (AR32301, 1997–2006) — Be Careful: Short timing belt intervals, Head gasket leaking (cylinder 4), Con-rod bearing damage from oil starvation. Power: 150–162 PS.

156 (AR32401, 1997–2003) — Be Careful: Strict timing belt interval required, Low oil pressure at hot idle, Water pump and thermostat wear. Power: 190–192 PS.

156 (937A1.000, 2001–2006) — Be Careful: Timing belt also drives the high-pressure pump, High-pressure fuel pump failed (code P1191), Carbon deposits on intake valves. Power: 162–166 PS.

156 (932A.000, 2002–2006) — Be Careful: Timing chain rattles when cold, Catastrophic belt failure on missed service, Intake manifold air leak from cracked gasket. Power: 250 PS.

What to watch out for with the Alfa Romeo 156? See the detailed listing of all engine and vehicle weaknesses in the sections above.

Frequently Asked Questions

What problems and weaknesses does the Alfa Romeo 156 932 have? +
The Alfa Romeo 156 932 has 93 known engine weaknesses and 12 vehicle weaknesses.
What should I look for when buying a used Alfa Romeo 156 932? +
faq.watch_a_none
Which engine is recommended? +
Be careful: AR37203 (1.6L Twin Spark), AR32104 (1.6L Twin Spark), AR32310 (2.0L Twin Spark), AR32201 (1.8L Twin Spark), AR32301 (2.0L Twin Spark), 937A1.000 (2.0L JTS), 932A.000 (3.2L V6 Busso), AR32401 (2.5L V6), 937A2.000 (1.9L JTD), 192A5.000 (1.9L JTD 16V), AR32501 (2.4L JTD), 841C000 (2.4L JTD), 841G.000 (2.4L JTDM). No engine is rated 'Good Choice'. The most fun to drive is the 932A.000 (3.2L V6 Busso).
Which Alfa Romeo 156 932 engine is the most fun? +
The {code} ({displacement}) offers the most driving fun in the Alfa Romeo 156 932 — rated: "Legendary!". {description} The 156 GTA pairs the Busso V6 with the longer wheelbase of the saloon — more stable at motorway speeds than the nervous 147 GTA, but less agile in tight corners. No standard ESP: with 250 hp on the front axle a deliberate decision that demands respect. The sound is identically magnificent — from 4,500 rpm the characteristic Busso wail, which feels even more intense in the closed cabin than in the 147. The more comfortable GTA on long distances, the more predictable one on country roads. 1,485 kg kerb weight keeps the power-to-weight in check.
Is the Alfa Romeo 156 932 worth buying used? +
The Alfa Romeo 156 932 requires careful consideration — choosing the right engine variant is crucial.
What horsepower variants are available for the Alfa Romeo 156 932? +
The Alfa Romeo 156 932 is available with engine variants from 105 to 250 hp. Petrol: AR37203 (1.6L Twin Spark), AR32104 (1.6L Twin Spark), AR32310 (2.0L Twin Spark), AR32201 (1.8L Twin Spark), AR32301 (2.0L Twin Spark), 937A1.000 (2.0L JTS), 932A.000 (3.2L V6 Busso), AR32401 (2.5L V6). Diesel: 937A2.000 (1.9L JTD), 192A5.000 (1.9L JTD 16V), AR32501 (2.4L JTD), 841C000 (2.4L JTD), 841G.000 (2.4L JTDM).

Last updated: February 2026 · All information without guarantee