Alfa Romeo Giulia Years to AvoidThe weakest years — and the one you should buy instead
After reviewing every Alfa Romeo Giulia we've analyzed (4 years), these are the 3 weakest. Each one has either an absolute low reliability score, chronic repair issues, or unusually high ownership costs relative to other Giulia years.
Proceed with caution
2018 Alfa Romeo Giulia
The 2018 Alfa Romeo Giulia offers an intoxicating blend of Italian style and exhilarating driving dynamics, making it a truly desirable performance sedan. However, prospective owners must be prepared for a higher frequency of electrical glitches and potential for costly repairs, making diligent maintenance and a thorough pre-purchase inspection absolutely critical to enjoyable ownership.
Why this year scores low
Owners frequently report infotainment system freezes, random warning lights (Check Engine, ABS, TPMS), sensor failures, and issues with power windows or mirrors. These are often software-related but can point to deeper wiring or module faults.
For the 2.0L MultiAir engine, common issues include misfires, rough idle, and various Check Engine Lights (CELs) often tied to spark plugs, ignition coils, or MultiAir module operation. Oxygen sensors and crankshaft position sensors are also known culprits.
While performance is excellent, the brake pads and rotors, especially on models with Brembo calipers, are known to wear prematurely. This leads to frequent and costly replacements, often accompanied by brake squeal.
Proceed with caution
2017 Alfa Romeo Giulia
The 2017 Alfa Romeo Giulia is a driver's delight, offering exhilarating performance and seductive styling that few competitors can match. However, its debut year was plagued by electrical gremlins and various software kinks, making it a high-risk proposition for those seeking worry-free ownership. This is a car for the enthusiast willing to embrace its passionate flaws, not for the pragmatic daily commuter.
Why this year scores low
Owners frequently report infotainment system freezes, 'check engine' lights for various sensor faults, parasitic battery drain, and intermittent module communication errors. Many issues are software-related, requiring dealership updates.
Common complaints include thermostat housing failures leading to overheating or slow warm-up, occasional rough idle, and rare reports of turbocharger wastegate issues or oil leaks from lines. These can trigger persistent check engine lights.
While the ZF 8HP is mechanically robust, the Giulia's early transmission software suffered from rough shifts, delays, or occasional 'transmission service required' messages. Some owners also reported mechatronic unit failures, though this is less common.
Proceed with caution
2019 Alfa Romeo Giulia
The 2019 Alfa Romeo Giulia is an absolute joy to drive, offering exotic styling and exceptional performance that punches well above its class. However, it requires a pragmatic approach due to persistent electrical quirks and some component failures that can quickly escalate ownership costs. If you prioritize driving passion and style over bulletproof reliability, and are prepared for diligent maintenance, this car can be incredibly rewarding.
Why this year scores low
Owners frequently report issues ranging from the UConnect system freezing, restarting, or failing to connect, to persistent 'check engine', 'ABS', 'TPMS', and 'adaptive headlamp' warnings. Parasitic battery drain is also common, requiring frequent battery replacement or a trickle charger. Often traced to wiring harnesses, ground issues, or module failures.
While generally robust, the 2.0L 'MultiAir' engine can suffer from MultiAir brick failures, leading to misfires or reduced power, though less common in 2019 models than earlier years. Oil leaks from the vacuum pump or oil cooler housing are also reported, alongside occasional turbocharger wastegate actuator issues or sensor failures.
While stylish, some interior components show premature wear or have operational issues. Owners report climate control system malfunctions (vents not opening/closing, erratic fan speeds), rattling trim pieces, driver's seat wear, and sticky window switches. Infotainment screen delamination has also been noted.