Common Problems with the Alfa Romeo MiTo
Charlotte Phillips, 2 years ago
5 min read
- Alfa Romeo
- Common problems
WhoCanFixMyCar explores some of the common problems drivers have reported with the Alfa Romeo MiTo, including how much it can cost on average for repairs and how reliable the model is.
First launched in 2008, the Alfa Romeo MiTo is a sleek and stylish supermini which rivals models like the Audi A1 and the MINI in appearance. However, the MiTo has had a number of similar reported problems from drivers.
Some of the problems drivers have reported with the Alfa Romeo include:
Some of these faults have led to Alfa Romeo announcing recalls on affected MiTo models, which you can find in the table below.
Alfa Romeo MiTo timing chain problems
Alfa Romeo MiTo gearbox problems
Alfa Romeo MiTo turbo problems
Alfa Romeo MiTo recent recalls
| Affected model dates | Issue |
|---|---|
| September 2010 - December 2015 | The airbag may not correctly deploy, or deploy at all due to a fault with the airbag propellant system |
Alfa Romeo MiTo timing chain problems
A known issue with the Alfa Romeo MiTo is problems with the model’s timing chain. Drivers have reported a rattling sound that comes from the timing chain when first starting up the car, and sometimes continuing even once the engine has warmed up. The timing chain on the MiTo are said to be more susceptible to stretching, and this is what causes the rattling sound. You might also notice your check engine light come on if you’re having this problem, and this can be an indication that your timing belt is close to snapping completely.
This is why it’s extremely important to get any potential problems with your timing chain checked out by a mechanic as soon as possible.
The average quote for a timing chain replacement for an Alfa Romeo MiTo is £852.41.
Alfa Romeo MiTo gearbox problems
The Alfa Romeo MiTo has received a number of complaints from drivers regarding a noisy gearbox, particularly once in the higher gears. The sixth gear on the MiTo is reportedly prone to rapid wear, which as a result can cause a noisy gearbox.
Not only is this problem annoying, but if left unrepaired it could cause some serious damage to the entire gearbox resulting in an entirely new gearbox being needed.
The average quote for a gearbox repair on an Alfa Romeo is £271.95 when booked with WhoCanFixMyCar.
Alfa Romeo MiTo turbo problems
Drivers have also reported issues with the Alfa Romeo MiTo’s turbo. The seal on the turbo of the MiTo is prone to failure, and if this happens, your car will experience a noticeable loss in power when you try to accelerate, with slow and noisy acceleration. You might also notice black smoke coming from your exhaust, and the check engine light on your dashboard.
It’s important to get any potential faults with your turbo checked out as soon as possible, as a turbo replacement can be a pricey job.
The average quote for a turbo replacement on an Alfa Romeo MiTo is £1,014.10 when booked with WhoCanFixMyCar.
Alfa Romeo MiTo steering problems
Another issue drivers have reported with the Alfa Romeo MiTo is with the model's steering system. Drivers have noted difficulty with heavy steering on the MiTo, as well as a total loss of steering power on some occasions. You may not even notice this problem however until the power steering light becomes illuminated.
This issue is reportedly very common on the MiTo, and is likely caused by a worn power steering column. If left unrepaired, these issues could cause permanent damage to your vehicle so it’s important to take your car to a local garage or mobile mechanic as soon as you can.
The average quote for power steering repair on the Alfa Romeo MiTo is £142.09 when booked with WhoCanFixMyCar.
Is the Alfa Romeo MiTo reliable?
Despite the deluxe appearance of the MiTo similar to rivals the MINI hatchback and the Audi A1, the model fairs somewhat below par in reliability. In CarBuyer’s 2016 Driver Power owner satisfaction survey, the Alfa Romeo MiTo placed a disappointing 145th out of 150 cars in reliability, with more recent years only improving marginally. Part of this low score comes from the model lacking a low-speed collision mitigation system, which many other small models which cost the same or even less than the MiTo come with.
The Alfa Romeo MiTo managed to secure a five star rating with Euro NCAP for adult safety protection, whilst child and pedestrian safety were rated a concerning three and two out of five stars respectively.
Having problems with your Alfa Romeo MiTo? Here at WhoCanFixMyCar, we can help you find a trusted local garage for the best price.
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