1.4 TB MultiAir (turbo)
2010–2020 · petrol · 1368cc · 170hp
Engine codes: 198A4000, 940A2000
Reliability, common problems and owner reviews for the Alfa Romeo Giulietta 1.4 TB MultiAir (turbo). Check this before you buy used.
The 1.4 TB MultiAir turbo (105–170hp) is the volume Giulietta petrol — characterful and willing, but it asks for care. The MultiAir electro-hydraulic valve unit (the 'brick' on top of the head) is sensitive to oil quality/level and can fail expensively, the timing chain and turbo want clean correct-spec oil, and some examples use oil. A documented, oil-disciplined car is rewarding; an unknown-history one that's been neglected can get costly. Buy on service history.
Same engine, other cars
This is the same physical engine (198A4000) sold under different names across brands. Reliability is broadly shared — cross-check these:
Known Issues
MultiAir actuator 'brick' is sensitive to oil quality; failure causes rough running / fault and is expensive.
Fix / Workaround: Strict correct-spec oil; replace MultiAir unit if faulty.
Repair cost: €400–€1200
Typically appears after: 110,000 km
Turbo and timing chain want clean oil; some oil consumption.
Fix / Workaround: Oil discipline; monitor level; check boost.
Repair cost: €200–€1000
Typically appears after: 120,000 km
Mileage Thresholds
After 130,000 km: MultiAir + oil attention.
Pre-Purchase Checklist
- ☐Service + oil-spec history (MultiAir)
- ☐Check oil level/consumption
- ☐Documented car only
Frequently asked questions
Is the Alfa Romeo Giulietta 1.4 TB MultiAir (turbo) reliable?
Maint. Sensitive — The 1.4 TB MultiAir turbo (105–170hp) is the volume Giulietta petrol — characterful and willing, but it asks for care. The MultiAir electro-hydraulic valve unit (the 'brick' on top of the head) is sensitive to oil quality/level and can fail expensively, the timing chain and turbo want clean correct-spec oil, and some examples use oil. A documented, oil-disciplined car is rewarding; an unknown-history one that's been neglected can get costly. Buy on service history.
What are the common problems and reviews for the Alfa Romeo Giulietta 1.4 TB MultiAir (turbo)?
The most commonly reported problems: MultiAir unit failure, Turbo / chain / oil use.
Is a used Alfa Romeo Giulietta 1.4 TB MultiAir (turbo) worth buying?
Fine if serviced correctly — but it punishes neglect hard. History and the right consumables matter.