ALFA ROMEO 159 (2009)
Running costs, reliability data, and common problems from 1,517 real MOT tests.
Annual Cost
£2,197
£183/month
MOT Pass Rate
72%
Average
Road Tax
£315
Based on CC/year
Insurance
Grp 18-32
1742cc Petrol
Check Carefully
72% pass rate, £2197/year to run. 10 points below average.
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Annual Running Costs
~36 mpg
Based on 1742cc
Higher estimate due to low pass rate
Based on 7,400 miles/year (UK average), current fuel prices, and repair likelihood from MOT data. Insurance not included.
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Reliability Verdict
Average reliability. Expect some repairs as it ages. That's 10 points below the national average of 82%. It falls below the ALFA ROMEO brand average of 80%.
At 17 years old, 72% of ALFA ROMEO 159s from 2009 passed their MOT first time in 2026. That's based on 1,517 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 122,974 miles.
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How Does It Compare?
Mileage Analysis
122,974
Average miles
125,800
Expected for age
The average 2009 ALFA ROMEO 159 has 122,974 miles on the clock, which is in line with the expected 125,800 miles for a 17-year-old car, suggesting normal everyday use.
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Best Year to Buy?
The most reliable year is the 2012 model with a 76% MOT pass rate, while the 2006 model has the lowest at 67%. The 2009 sits between the two at 72%.
ALFA ROMEO 159 by Year
Similar Cars to Consider
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About the 2009 ALFA ROMEO 159
The 2009 ALFA ROMEO 159 is a premium with a 1742cc petrol engine. 1,517 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2026, making it a reasonably common sight on UK roads. Among all cars from 2009, the average MOT pass rate is 75%, and this model falls short of that benchmark.
With an average of 122,974 miles at 17 years old, ALFA ROMEO 159 owners drive about as much as the UK average.
2009 ALFA ROMEO 159 Fuel Costs
The 1742cc petrol engine offers a reasonable balance between performance and economy. Expect around 36 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £1,327 per year at current petrol prices of 142p per litre (based on 7,400 miles per year).
What does it cost to own a 2009 ALFA ROMEO 159?
Total estimated annual running cost is £2,197 (£183/month), broken down as £1327 fuel, £315 road tax, £55 MOT, and £500 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 72% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
ALFA ROMEO 159 Reliability Trend
Newer ALFA ROMEO 159s show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 4 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2009 ALFA ROMEO 159
At 17 years old, the ALFA ROMEO 159 is firmly in budget territory. Purchase prices are low, but check for rust, worn suspension bushes, and electrical gremlins. A full service history is especially valuable at this age. If you're flexible on year, the 2012 model has the highest pass rate at 76%.
Common Issues to Watch For
Based on the 2009 ALFA ROMEO 159's fuel type, age, and engine size, these are the most likely problem areas to check.
Timing Chain / Belt
Watch outAt 17 years old, check whether the timing belt has been replaced (typically due every 5-7 years or 60,000-100,000 miles). A snapped belt can destroy the engine.
Rust and Corrosion
Watch outAt 10+ years, check wheel arches, sills, subframe, and brake lines for rust. Structural corrosion is an MOT failure. Prevention is far cheaper than repair.
Suspension Bushings
Watch outRubber suspension bushes harden and crack with age, causing knocking noises and vague handling. A full refresh costs £300-£800 depending on the car.
Clutch Wear
Watch outWith an average of 123k miles, clutch replacement may be due (typical lifespan 60,000-100,000 miles). Budget £400-£800 for a new clutch kit.
Brake Discs and Pads
Medium riskHigh-mileage cars often need brake disc replacement, not just pads. A full set of discs and pads costs £200-£500 per axle.
Engine Mounts
Medium riskWorn engine mounts cause excessive vibration and movement. Replacement costs £150-£400 per mount. Check for vibration at idle with the bonnet open.
Service History
Low riskAlways request a full service history. Regular servicing is the single best indicator of how well a car has been maintained, regardless of mileage.
Running Costs Compared
How the 2009 ALFA ROMEO 159 stacks up against similar cars for annual running costs, insurance, and tax.
| Car | Pass Rate | Fuel/yr | Tax/yr | Insurance | Total/yr |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ALFA ROMEO 159(2009) | 72% | £1327 | £315 | Grp 18-32 | £2197 |
| FORD FOCUS(2011) | 75% | £1137 | £135 | Grp 12-25 | £1827-£370 |
| VAUXHALL CORSA(2011) | 75% | £1137 | £30 | Grp 8-20 | £1722-£475 |
| FORD FIESTA(2008) | 72% | £1137 | £30 | Grp 8-20 | £1722-£475 |
| NISSAN QASHQAI(2011) | 69% | £1327 | £135 | Grp 18-32 | £2217+£20 |
Estimates based on 7,400 miles/year, current fuel prices, and MOT data. Insurance groups are indicative. Actual costs vary by driver, location, and usage.
Related Alfa romeo Models
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