2.2 JTS (petrol, GM Z22SE-based)
2005–2011 · petrol · 2198cc · 185hp
Engine codes: 939A5000
Reliability, common problems and owner reviews for the Alfa Romeo 159 2.2 JTS (petrol, GM Z22SE-based). Check this before you buy used.
The 2.2 JTS is based on GM's Z22SE and has a specific, vicious timing-chain failure: a tiny 1mm oil-feed nozzle to the chain clogs with sludge, and Alfa's long 18,000–21,000-mile service intervals accelerate it — chains nominally last 40,000–60,000 miles but can fail as early as 20,000 miles. Watch for idle rattle from the timing area, P0016, hard starting and power loss. Survivable ONLY with religious 10,000 km oil changes.
Known Issues
The 1mm oil-feed nozzle to the chain clogs with sludge from long oil intervals; the chain stretches and can fail as early as 20,000 miles, bending valves. Idle rattle + P0016 are the warnings.
Fix / Workaround: Change oil every 10,000 km MAX; keep the oil-feed nozzle clear; replace chain at first rattle.
Repair cost: €700–€1600
Typically appears after: 50,000 km
DI carbon on intake valves.
Fix / Workaround: Walnut blast.
Repair cost: €150–€350
Typically appears after: 120,000 km
Mileage Thresholds
After 50,000 km: Chain can fail from here (or earlier on neglected oil).
Fault Codes to Scan
Pre-Purchase Checklist
- ☐Cold-start/idle rattle check (timing area)
- ☐Scan for P0016
- ☐Demand 10,000 km oil-change history — non-negotiable
- ☐Prefer the 1.75 TBi if you want petrol
Frequently asked questions
Is the Alfa Romeo 159 2.2 JTS (petrol, GM Z22SE-based) reliable?
Problematic — The 2.2 JTS is based on GM's Z22SE and has a specific, vicious timing-chain failure: a tiny 1mm oil-feed nozzle to the chain clogs with sludge, and Alfa's long 18,000–21,000-mile service intervals accelerate it — chains nominally last 40,000–60,000 miles but can fail as early as 20,000 miles. Watch for idle rattle from the timing area, P0016, hard starting and power loss. Survivable ONLY with religious 10,000 km oil changes.
What are the common problems and reviews for the Alfa Romeo 159 2.2 JTS (petrol, GM Z22SE-based)?
The most commonly reported problems: Timing chain failure (clogged 1mm oil nozzle), Carbon build-up (DI).
Is a used Alfa Romeo 159 2.2 JTS (petrol, GM Z22SE-based) worth buying?
Known design issues and recurring faults that were never fully resolved. Buy only with eyes open.