You don’t have to be a mechanic or wear oil-stained overalls to know when your Alfa Romeo is trying to tell you something’s off. From strange whirring sounds to those cheeky dashboard lights flashing like it’s Christmas Eve, your Alfa is full of clues — and ignoring them can be costly. Learn every warning sign your car tells you.
In Australia, we’ve got a love for beautiful machines, and Alfa Romeos have found a niche with drivers who enjoy European design, performance and, let’s be honest, a bit of character. But keeping them purring requires a sharp ear, keen eye and regular checkups. Especially Sydney’s stop-start traffic, long stretches of highway driving, and the occasional summer scorcher that can really put your engine to the test.
So, whether you’re commuting on the M5 or coasting down the Great Ocean Road, here are 7 clear signs your Alfa Romeo car needs a checkup — plus expert tips to keep it running smoothly.
1. Dashboard Warning Signs & Lights: More Than Just Decoration
Your dashboard is like your Alfa’s version of a group chat — when something’s wrong, it gets noisy.
The check engine light is the most common culprit. It could be a minor emissions issue or something as serious as a misfiring engine. Don’t ignore it. A 2023 study by the Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association found that 42% of drivers delayed acting on dashboard warnings, leading to avoidable damage and higher costs (source).
If the oil pressure light, battery light or temperature warning are lit, your next destination should probably be your mechanic — not the beach.
2. Unusual Noises: Your Alfa Shouldn’t Sound Like a Kettle Boiling
Squealing when you brake? That’s likely worn brake pads. Grinding while shifting gears? That could be your transmission.
A recent report by NRMA shows that strange noises are one of the top 5 reasons Australians bring their cars in for service, especially in performance vehicles like Alfa Romeos (source).
Trust your ears — they’re often the first alert system before real damage kicks in.
3. Vibrations or Shaking While Driving
Unless you’re off-roading in the outback (which your Alfa Romeo definitely wasn’t designed for), vibrations aren’t normal.
Shaking can point to issues with tyres, alignment, or even warped brake rotors. Ignoring it can wear out your suspension and lead to more serious drivability problems.
Here’s a quick look at common causes:
| Symptom | Potential Issue |
| Vibration at high speed | Tyre imbalance or alignment |
| Vibration during braking | Warped rotors or worn pads |
| Shaking at idle | Engine misfire or mount issues |
4. Fluid Leaks: Not the Good Kind of Dripping
It’s hot in many parts of Australia, but puddles under your Alfa aren’t just leftover aircon condensation.
Check the colour:
- Red or pink: Transmission fluid
- Green or orange: Coolant
- Brown or black: Engine oil
- Clear with a petrol smell: Fuel leak (don’t muck about with this one)
According to the Australian Government’s Department of Infrastructure, leaks contribute to environmental damage and are flagged during roadworthiness inspections (source).
5. Poor Fuel Efficiency: It’s Not Just Rising Prices
If you’re filling up more often but driving the same distances, your car might be guzzling fuel because of a dirty air filter, bad oxygen sensor, or underinflated tyres.
The Australian Bureau of Statistics reports that vehicles with poor maintenance can use up to 20% more fuel than those that are regularly serviced (source. That adds fast, especially in major cities like Sydney or Melbourne where traffic congestion can make a short trip feel like an odyssey.
6. Smoke from the Exhaust: Blue, White, or Black Is Never Good
Unless you’re filming a Fast & Furious sequel, your exhaust should be near invisible. Excess smoke can indicate:
- Blue smoke: Burning oil
- White smoke: Coolant leak into engine
- Black smoke: Too much fuel being burned
Any of these signs means something’s off in the combustion system — and ignoring them can lead to costly repairs or engine failure.
7. Laggy Acceleration or Sluggish Performance
Alfas are known for their punchy acceleration and sporty handling. So if yours feels sluggish, it could be a clogged fuel injector, transmission trouble, or issues with the turbocharger (if fitted).
This is especially common in urban Aussie driving, where short trips can cause carbon buildup in the engine. Regular servicing helps clear things out and keep your vehicle responsive.
Keep an Eye on Scheduled Maintenance
Your Alfa Romeo owner’s manual isn’t just for collecting glovebox dust. Most manufacturers recommend servicing every 10,000–15,000km or once a year, whichever comes first. In Australia’s varied climate, staying on top of this can prevent minor issues from escalating.
Here’s a helpful chart on what needs checking and when:
| Service Item | Recommended Interval |
| Engine Oil & Filter | Every 10,000–15,000km |
| Brake Inspection | Every 20,000km |
| Transmission Service | Every 40,000–60,000km |
| Timing Belt Replacement | Every 100,000km or 5 years |
(Source: Manufacturer Guidelines, Alfa Romeo Australia)
Don’t Wait for Your Alfa to Scream for Help
If your Alfa Romeo has been acting up, don’t brush it off like a seagull at Bondi Beach. Strange noises, lights, or performance drops are all signs it’s time for a professional checkup.
At AVW Group, we understand the quirks and complexities of European cars, especially Alfa Romeos. Our specialist technicians in Sydney use dealer-grade diagnostics, genuine parts, and a whole lot of know-how to keep your car in top shape — without the drama.
Don’t let small issues become expensive repairs. Book your Alfa Romeo checkup with AVW Group today and drive away with confidence.
