Alfa Romeo 2.2 JTS
The 2.2-litre JTS with 185 hp is the entry petrol with sufficient power for the 159 and Brera. The direct injection delivers better throttle response than the MPI, and the 185 hp moves the heavy 159 adequately. In the Brera and Spider as the entry variant attractive — the Giugiaro design is available even with the smaller engine. Inlet valve carbonisation and oil dilution from direct injection remain the typical JTS concerns.
2.2 JTS — Alfa Naturally Aspirated Bliss
185 hp 2.2 JTS in the 159: eager to rev, sonically convincing, with sporting impulse. The engine loves high revs — exactly what Alfa stands for.
Engine Weaknesses 6
The 2.2 JTS uses direct injection, which means intake valves do not self-clean as they do with port injection. Deposits can form from around 80,000 km.
Symptoms: Rough engine running, power loss, misfires
Ignition coil failures are known on the 2.2 JTS and manifest as misfires. Fault code P0300–P0304 points to individual cylinders.
Symptoms: Misfires, engine stumbling, engine warning light
The dual-mass flywheel (DMF) of the 2.4 JTDm 20V (939A5) shows identical problems to 939A6: spring element wear, especially with short-trip driving. First failure can occur as early as 85,000 km. Sachs uprated kits as an alternative to OEM.
Symptoms: Idle vibrations, metallic judder when pulling away, rumbling noises during rev changes
The turbocharger actuator on the 2.4 JTDm sticks due to soot deposits between the actuator pin and VNT vane ring. Regular cleaning every 10,000–20,000 km with turbo cleaner is recommended. Also affects 939A6.
Symptoms: Delayed boost build-up, insufficient boost pressure, engine warning light, noticeable power loss in the mid-rev range
The 2.2 JTS tends towards elevated oil consumption from age-related valve stem seal failure. Consumption of 0.5–1 L/1,000 km is frequently documented. Regular oil level checks are essential, as engine damage through oil starvation is possible.
Symptoms: Elevated oil consumption, bluish smoke on start and during load changes, oil smell in exhaust gas
The cam phaser solenoids (P0013/P0014) become contaminated or fail electrically. An oil change can temporarily clear the fault, but the solenoid must be replaced. Ideally both solenoids are changed at the same time.
Symptoms: Engine warning light P0013/P0014, sluggish throttle response, power loss in the lower rev range, poor cold running
Vehicle Weaknesses 8
The front subframe (engine cradle), rear axle carrier and sills rust without adequate factory protection. Particularly on TI models, areas behind trim panels corrode unnoticed. Subframe replacement costs approximately 1,000 € plus fitment.
The M32 gearbox (fitted to 1.9 JTDM and 1.9 JTS) develops bearing noise from around 100,000–190,000 km. Gearbox overhaul without removal costs approximately 1,100 €. Conversion to the more robust F40 gearbox is possible.
On the 159 and Brera 939, multiple electronic components can fail simultaneously: windows, air conditioning, Bose audio, xenon, door control units. A faulty body computer is the frequent cause. Replacement 800–2,000 €.
Control arm bushes and joints on the 159 front axle wear noticeably. A visual inspection at the time of purchase is recommended. At the end of their service life, pronounced knocking is clearly audible. Plan for renewal every 100,000–150,000 km.
The steering rack on 159 models up to 2007 tends to leak with squeaking and clicking noises when turning. A revised steering rack was fitted from the 2008 model year. A leaking rack puts stress on the hydraulic power steering.
The 159 cooling system (especially the 2.4 JTD) tends to develop air pockets, especially after repairs. Several bleed points must be observed. Symptoms: coolant boils over, heating only works at higher revs.
The 159's air conditioning regularly loses refrigerant through stone chip damage to the condenser or leaking connections. Correct fill quantity is 550 g — frequently only 490 g is added. Leaks are only visible via UV tracer after several days.
The brake discs on the 159 (especially the Spider variant) rust heavily after just 4 days of standing. Grinding and juddering occur when pulling away. After approximately 10 km the braking feel normalises, but disc wear remains elevated.
Reports & Tests
Only around 58.5 percent of seven-year-old Alfa 159s pass their MOT at the first attempt — a noticeably worse result than comparable German rivals. Diesel engines in particular cause significant problems up to and including total engine failure. Brake discs and suspension wear above average.