Recalls: Alfa Romeo 166
Overview
Manufacturers, or importers, issue recalls for defects or faults which have the potential to cause injury. Generally, manufacturers will inform the original buyers if their vehicle is subject to a recall and of the steps required to remedy the defect or fault. Please note that the recalls below (if any) are for Australian-delivered vehicles only. Furthermore, the number of recalls should not be taken as an indication of a model’s reliability or its safety more generally.
Recalls:
- In October 2001, a recall was issued for Alfa Romeo 166 vehicles due to possible detachment of the connection pipe between the hydraulic power steering casing and the intercooling system. As a result, the hydraulic assistance of the power steering system may fail, requiring greater effort to steer the vehicle (PRA 2001/5022).
- In April 2005, a recall was issued for Alfa Romeo 166 vehicles due to a possible crease or crack of the fuel vapour hose which occurred during production as the vapour hose was fitted to the fuel tank. As a result, fuel odour or leakage could occur when the tank was filled to its maximum (PRA 2005/7702).
Problems and faults: Alfa Romeo 166
Overview
This section identifies potential problems, causes and fixes based on the experiences of owners and repairers, online sources and technical service bulletins. This information is provided solely for reference purposes and AustralianCar.Reviews recommends that only properly qualified persons carry out repairs or modifications. Furthermore, the number of items below should not be taken as an indicator of a model’s reliability or the frequency with which they may occur.
To report a problem or fault to the AustralianCar.Reviews team, please use the Contact Us form. Note that AustralianCar.Reviews does not offer advice on automotive problems or disputes; such enquiries will not receive a reply. For vehicles purchased from dealers after 1 January 2011, please see our Australian Consumer Law fact sheet.
Alfa Romeo 166 V6: oil consumption
For the Alfa Romeo 166’s 3.0-litre V6 engine, oil consumption of up to 1 litre per 1500 kilometres is considered normal. For this reason, it is necessary to regularly check the oil level.
Alfa Romeo 166 V6: cam belt replacement
For the 3.0-litre V6 engine, Alfa Romeo specified that the cam belt be changed every 72,000 miles (116,000 kilometres), though it is recommended that it be changed at 60,000 miles (96,000 kilometres) to avoid premature failure.
Alfa Romeo 166: creaking suspension
The double wishbone front suspension has a high upper wishbone which is susceptible to wear and may develop some looseness (also known as play); it may also make a creaking noise that can sound as though it is coming from the dashboard.
Alfa Romeo 166: rear tyre wear
The rear tyres may wear prematurely, particularly the inside edges – this may be due to the suspension arms having worn and the tracking being out of alignment, or a worn ‘Merc’ bearing in the rear suspension.
