1998 Alfa Romeo 156 2.0 TS Executive 2.0 petrol

Summary:

Keep expectations low for performance

Faults:

Dual wishbone had to be replaced.

Dashboard rattle needed fixing - an expensive operation.

The standard audio is far from satisfactory, and replaced by a Pioneer radio-CD and speakers.

Cooler thermometer kept the cooling permanently on at 70 degrees Celsius, and had to replaced.

Brakes would not let me stop at speed bumps. Disks and pads were mistakenly replaced in search for the actual source of error: the braking center - had to be replaced.

Faulty lambda sensor - replaced.

Faulty idle regulator - replaced.

Rear dampers and mounting rubbers - replaced.

All that kept me from revving from idle to 3,000 rpm, the faulty air meter had to be replaced.

General Comments:

This car is the best 4-door mid-sized sedan when it comes to looks and interior and exterior design.

The 2.0 liter engine is the best in its class.

Braking is 156's weakest point. I am considering an upgrade to 2.5 V6, and am deeply concerned about braking performance for a faster machine.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 25th October, 2003

3rd Feb 2004, 11:46

I find the brakes on my 2.0 TS 156 fine, if lacking all the feel one would expect on a sporting saloon.

20th Nov 2004, 10:39

Hi I have bought an Alfa 156 Recently and found the brakes to be very poor. But I have now upgraded the disc's and pads to drilled and grooved disc's, and performance pads. Now the brakes three or four times better.