Alfa Romeo 159 - BSI Unit

[Garett]

Hi, my friend is looking at a 2009 159 and has found a very nice looking one. The dealer has said its been unavailable to view as it is getting repaired, it has a BSI unit fault which is causing an intermittent fault with the lights.

Should he be concerned this this has failed already, or happy it is being replaced before he buys it?

[CallorFold]

I dont know anything about the specific fault, but presumably if it's fixed before he buys it, and it's covered under warranty for X-number of months after he buys it, there shouldn't be any alarm bells going off?

Again, I don't know the specific fault, it might lead to other issues? But if not then I'd go with the above ^

[Garett]

Thats one way of thinking, but on the other hand is it a sign of things to come? Are Alfas still fragile and prone to electrical niggles?

[ecs0set]

Garett said:

Thats one way of thinking, but on the other hand is it a sign of things to come? Are Alfas still fragile and prone to electrical niggles?

I'd say no. Our 159 2.4 is the most reliable car I've owned (touch wood).

Pros:

• It's an Alfa!
• Great styling
• Great interior
• Double-wishbone suspension so good handling
• Excellent build quality

Cons:

• Quite heavy
• More expensive to maintain than say a Focus or Golf
• Not as much rear legroom as you might expect
• Diesel engines are not as economical as you might expect
• V6 is a GM unit and not the legendary Busso
• Aggressive chassis geometry (specifically camber) leads to rapid tyre wear on large wheels

More info here or I can answer questions if you like: http://www.alfaowner.com/Forum/alfa-159-brera-and-...