Modernly designed, handsomely equipped, and brilliantly curated, the Alfa Romeo Stelviois the latest inclusion in the luxury compact SUV segment. While it is based on an all-new platform, the Stelvio defies the norm with a limited number of complaints. Yet, its reliability is a mixed bag of opinions. The SUV has been recalled a whopping 8 times, which does not translate into a hassle-free ownership experience. Though its problems are majorly mechanical and electrical in nature, the callbacks are associated with variegated concerns. So, against the likes of the Audi Q5, the BMW X3, and the Volvo XC60, does the new European contender manage a competitive edge? Let’s find out.
2018 Alfa Romeo Stelvio User Complaints and Problems
Mechanical Complaints
- Hesitant Acceleration: Among the 2018 Alfa Romeo Stelvio problems, a handful of buyers have reported the vehicle fails to accelerate, despite the pedal being pressed. The SUV vibrates and struggles to breach the 40MPH mark, which has almost led to a crash in three distinct cases.
- Unintended Acceleration: Buyers of the 2018 Stelvio SUV have also reported the vehicle to unexpectedly pick up speed. In a couple of cases, complainants have reported the vehicle lurching forward violently, despite the brake pedal being depressed.
Electric System Complaints
- Random illumination of warning lights: The 2018 Alfa Romeo Stelvio quality issues also give rise to its electrical niggles. Due to a leaking roof, several buyers have reported the water seeping inside the cabin and affecting the Body Control Module (BCM). As a result, the warning lights illuminate erratically. In some cases, the problem with the BCM has also led to the random activation of the turn signals.
- Malfunctioning Forward-Collision Avoidance System: The Alfa Romeo Stelvio’s electrical problems also include the improper functioning of its FCA system. Several buyers have reported the functionality to falsely identify a risk of a crash. As a result, it activates the Automatic Emergency Braking System, which causes the vehicle to stall. While no injuries or crashes have been reported yet, Alfa Romeo should actively aim at eliminating the issue.
Structural Problems
- Shattering of sunroof: Among the 2018 Alfa Romeo Stelvio reliability issues, a couple of buyers have reported the explosion of the sunroof. Without any impact or incidence, complainants have recorded the glass shattering, which can symptomize an underlying structural issue.
2018 Alfa Romeo Stelvio Recalls
|
S. No |
Date |
NHTSA ID |
Issues Noticed |
Additional Remarks |
Remedy |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
1. |
25th July 2019 |
19V551000 |
Improper reading in fuel gauge |
The Body Control Module (BCM) may indicate a higher fuel level than actual. |
Dealers will update the BCM, free of charge. The recall began on 12th August 2019. |
|
2. |
1st Mar 2019 |
19V148000 |
Malfunctioning Adaptive Cruise Control |
Due to an error in the software of the Brake System Module (BSM), the driver might be unable to disable the Adaptive Cruise Control, after the traction control detects an abnormality. |
Dealers will update the BSM software, free of charge. The recall began on 25th March 2019. |
|
3. |
14th Sept 2018 |
18V635000 |
Possible stalling of the vehicle |
Due to inadequate webbing material, the engine cooling hose may allow a coolant leak. This recall relates to the Quadrifoglio variant of the Alfa Romeo Stelvio SUV. |
Dealers will replace the coolant hose, free of charge. The recall began on 10th October 2018. |
|
4. |
14th Sept 2018 |
18V636000 |
Engine misfire may cause damage |
In the vehicles equipped with the 2.0L unit, a possible engine misfire may result in the overheating of the catalytic converter, which can damage the wiring and engine components. |
Upon inspection, dealers will update the engine control module software, free of charge. The recall began on 10th October 2018. |
|
5. |
29th Mar 2018 |
18V205000 |
Electrical niggles due to water leak |
Due to the leaking of water, the body control module and its components might corrode. As a result, affected units of the Alfa Romeo Stelvio might face several electrical issues including loss of turn signals or illumination of warning lights, among others. |
To prevent water seepage, Chrysler will add a protective layer to prevent damage to the body control module and its connectors, free of charge. |
|
6. |
29th Mar 2018 |
18V203000 |
Unexpected opening of the tailgate |
The leaking water might corrode the rear liftgate and its opening switch, allowing it to open unexpectedly. |
To prevent water seepage, Chrysler will add a protective layer to prevent damage to the liftgate wiring connectors and its switch, free of charge. |
|
7. |
6th Mar 2018 |
18V147000 |
Improper functioning of windshield wipers |
Due to incorrect interpretation by the software, the windshield wipers might operate at low speeds only. As a result, the affected units fail to comply with federal laws. |
Dealers will replace the wiper motor, free of charge. |
|
8. |
20th Dec 2017 |
17V823000 |
Reduced braking performance |
Due to contaminated brake fluid, the braking performance of the SUV might be reduced. |
Upon inspection, dealers will replace the braking system, free of charge. The recall began on 1st February 2018. |
Should you buy the 2018 Alfa Romeo Stelvio?
The 2018 Alfa Romeo Stelvio price starts at $40,550, which makes it an accessible option in the luxury compact SUV market. It is fun to drive with potent engine options and builds its place with its enticing design. However, in terms of reliability, the Alfa Romeo Stelviomight not be as refined as its competitors. Yet, CarHP does not veto the vehicle. While its complaints are restricted, a large number of recalls can indicate the brand’s proactive approach. So, if buyers perform due diligence and find no issues with the vehicle, there is no reason to forego it. Otherwise, established nameplates from revered brands like Audi, BMW, and Volvocan be considered.
