Generations
939 — Type 939
2005–2010
2.2 JTS, 2.4 JTDm, 3.2 V6, 3.2 V6
Top issues to watch for
The most serious Alfa Romeo Brera problems ranked by severity. We track 5 known issues — here are the ones you need to know about first.
Major
Suspension component damage and corrosion (939)
The Brera's suspension components, particularly control arms and subframe mounting points, suffer premature corrosion and structural damage. MOT data shows this model fails at 9.9x the national fleet average for suspension component damage, with failures occurring across all mileage bands from 40,000 miles upwards. The aluminium-intensive construction creates galvanic corrosion where dissimilar metals meet steel mounting points. This is significantly more severe than typical Italian car corrosion patterns and affects roadworthiness.
What happens if ignoredSeverely corroded suspension components can fail suddenly, causing loss of vehicle control. Control arm failure results in wheel misalignment and potential tyre contact with the wheel arch. Subframe damage requires specialist aluminium repair or replacement, with costs typically exceeding the vehicle's value.
Major
Engine management light and emissions failures (939)
The 2.2 JTS direct injection petrol engine suffers frequent emissions system faults that illuminate the engine management light. Common causes include carbon build-up on intake valves due to direct injection, lambda sensor failures, and catalytic converter degradation. The JTS system is particularly sensitive to fuel quality and requires premium unleaded fuel.
What happens if ignoredPersistent emissions faults will cause MOT failures. Carbon build-up reduces power and fuel economy progressively. Catalytic converter damage from misfiring can cost £800-1,200 to replace. Running with emissions faults active can cause secondary damage to oxygen sensors and fuel injectors.
Major
DPF blockage and smoke opacity failures (939)
The 2.4 JTDm diesel engine suffers severe diesel particulate filter (DPF) blockage issues, particularly in higher mileage examples. MOT data shows 11.7x higher failure rates for smoke opacity compared to the fleet average at 120-150k miles. The DPF system requires regular high-speed driving to complete regeneration cycles, but many Breras are used for urban driving only. Complete DPF blockage results in severe power loss and potential engine damage from excessive back-pressure.
What happens if ignoredComplete DPF blockage causes severe power loss and can damage the turbocharger through excessive back-pressure. DPF replacement costs £1,500-2,500. Continued driving with blocked DPF can cause engine oil dilution and internal damage. Vehicle will fail MOT emissions test until resolved.
Major
Brake binding and efficiency problems (939)
Brera models suffer from brake caliper binding and reduced braking efficiency at significantly higher rates than the fleet average. MOT data shows 5.2x higher failure rates for brake binding and 4.4x higher parking brake efficiency failures. The Brembo brake system, while offering good performance when functioning, is prone to caliper seizure due to corrosion of the sliding pins and degradation of the rubber seals. This is exacerbated by the car's low ride height trapping road salt and debris.
What happens if ignoredBinding brakes cause rapid disc and pad wear, reduced fuel economy, and potential brake failure. Seized calipers require immediate attention as they can cause loss of braking on the affected wheel. Complete brake overhaul typically costs £600-1,200 depending on the extent of damage to discs and calipers.
1 more known issues tracked
Including wear items, electrical niggles, and generation-specific problems.
MOT failure hotspots
Based on DVSA MOT test data. These are the items where the Alfa Romeo Brera fails at a significantly higher rate than the average car.
Exhaust system damage
Bodywork · 80-100k miles
MOT failure rate: 28x the fleet average
Sample: 316 tests
Structural corrosion
Bodywork · 60-80k miles
MOT failure rate: 23x the fleet average
Sample: 579 tests
Headlight fault
Lights & Electrics · 60-80k miles
MOT failure rate: 19x the fleet average
Sample: 478 tests
Emissions failure
Exhaust & Emissions · 100-120k miles
MOT failure rate: 16x the fleet average
Sample: 700 tests
Light unit fault
Lights & Electrics · 60-80k miles
MOT failure rate: 15x the fleet average
Sample: 1,737 tests
Engine mounting/bracket severely damaged or det...
Bodywork · 120-150k miles
MOT failure rate: 15x the fleet average
Sample: 401 tests
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Related
- Alfa Romeo Brera buyer's guide
- Alfa Romeo Brera service history check
- Alfa Romeo Brera service schedule & costs
- Alfa Romeo Brera MOT failure rates
- How to check Alfa Romeo service history
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Alfa Romeo Brera reliability FAQs
What are the most common problems with the Alfa Romeo Brera?
The Alfa Romeo Brera has 5 known issues across 2 severity levels. The most common problems relate to Suspension component damage and corrosion (939) and Engine management light and emissions failures (939).
Is the Alfa Romeo Brera reliable?
The Alfa Romeo Brera has 0 dangerous and 4 major known issues. No dangerous issues are tracked, which is a positive sign.
How much does it cost to fix Alfa Romeo Brera problems?
Costs vary by issue. Independent garages are typically 30-50% cheaper than main dealers for most repairs.