The Most Common 2018 Alfa Romeo Stelvio Problems

The 2018 Alfa Romeo Stelvio’s common problems include issues with the engine, electrical system, leaking coolant hoses, and adaptive cruise control.
Written by Cameron Thiessen
Edited by Amy Bobinger
Reviewed by Kathleen Flear
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The 2018 Alfa Romeo Stelvio had 8 recalls for issues including contaminated brake fluid, electrical malfunctions, engine misfires causing heat damage, coolant leaks, adaptive cruise control that could fail to turn off, and an inaccurate fuel gauge.

The most common 2018 Alfa Romeo Stelvio problems

The Stelvio mostly delivered on the expectations of a luxury SUV, offering an incredibly fun and natural driving experience and a Quadrifoglio version in a league of its own.
But the 2018 Alfa Romeo Stelvio did have some problems. These led to 8 NHTSA recalls:
  • Contaminated brake fluid, which could compromise the braking system
  • Windshield wipers that couldn’t move fast enough, interfering with visibility
  • Problems with the rear liftgate opening unexpectedly 
  • Water leaks leading to corrosion and malfunctions in electrical connectors
  • Engine misfires that caused heat damage to components like the catalytic converter
  • Coolant hose leaks
  • Failures to deactivate adaptive cruise control
  • Inaccurate fuel gauges due to a malfunctioning body control module (BCM)
Other common complaints about this model year of the Stelvio include: 
  • Frustration using the navigation system 
  • Limited radio presets
Is it a deal breaker?: These recalls are concerning, but overall, consumers and reviewers often report having no issues with the vehicle at all. You can usually expect top-notch quality from a name like Alfa Romeo.

Is the 2018 Alfa Romeo Stelvio reliable?

Not really, especially for a newer used car. J.D. Power gives the Alfa Romeo Stelvio a 68/100 overall reliability rating based on consumer rankings, placing it at the very bottom of the list of 2018’s compact premium SUVs.
And this luxury vehicle demands luxury
car repair
costs—2018 Stelvio owners pay an average of $1,978 each year on repairs. 
If you’re looking for a new car similar to the Stelvio with a much better reputation for reliability, visit a local luxury car dealership to check out the 2018
Porsche Macan
. It received the top marks from J.D. Power in this category of vehicles.
And if you want to stick with a Biscione, you might check out the Alfa Romeo Giulia, which is widely regarded as a reliable option.
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