2.0 JTS engine - Should I avoid?

[Jayyylo]

I'm on the lookout for a new car and I came across the Alfa Romeo GT which had previously slipped under the radar.

I drive approximately 16,000 miles a year (30 mile commute) so a diesel isn't completely ruled out but I much prefer the rev-tastic N/A driving experience rather than a torque punch over a limited rev range. I also think it's a crime to have a car that looks so good with a tractor sounding engine.

In my research I've discovered that belts must be changed every 36,000 miles and engine oil must always be kept topped up. I've also read that it likes to use quite a bit of oil so this could be an expensive added running cost.

I've seen a few forum posts slating the 2.0 JTS engine so other than belts and oil what are the common faults? I read about sensor issues but nothing that went into any detail.

I know my heart is totally ruling my head over this decision as everything tells me that it'll be expensive to run and maintain, it'll be difficult to sell and it's hardly the best drivers car. Should I turn away now before I go for a test drive and fall in love?

I'm currently in the middle of buying my first house so money is tight, hence wanting an easy to run car and not opting to look at V6's.

[Jayyylo]

Thanks for the replies. I think on this occassion I'm going to walk away from the GT after some more research. I'm normally happy to ignore the usual Alfa reliability wives tales but with so much evidence online about the engine issues it's difficult to ignore.

I had orginally got interested in the GT because there are crap all decent cars under £4000 and 100,000 miles in NI at the moment and it stood out as a possibility. I've decided I'm happy to travel to England for the right car (we always have to do this) so it opens up way more possibilities.

[Jayyylo]

Thanks for all the feedback.

In the end I decided that while the Alfa could have been a good car it seemed like it would be too high maintenance (both for me and to ensure all previous owners looked after the car properly) and potentially very difficult to sell again. I knew it was a heart decision because I loved the styling but in the end my head ruled out.

Last weekend I picked up an '03 BMW 530i sport with 62k for almost half my initial budget. The car is immaculate and everything is tight so I know the BMW will be a long term solution rather than a couple of years like the Alfa would have been. I absolutely love the 530 and I know I made the right decision. In the future I'll look into fitting an lsd which will complete the car.