Alfa Romeo · Known Issues

2018 Alfa Romeo Giulia Problems: 12 Issues Every Owner Should Know

2018 model year · 580+ owner reports · Updated June 2026

According to Au7o's analysis of 580+ owner reports, the 2018 Alfa Romeo Giulia has 12 documented known issues, with 6 rated critical. The most serious are Low-Pressure Fuel Pump Failure Causing Stall (Recall 25V-586) ($200-$2,000 repair), Turbo Coolant Line Leak ($300-$800 repair), Electrical Faults from Water Intrusion / BCM Failure ($300-$1,500 repair), Timing Chain Rattle / Oil Pump Bolt Loosening (2.0T) ($800-$3,000 repair), Contaminated Brake/Clutch Fluid (Reduced Braking) and Low-Pressure Fuel Pump Failure (Sudden Power Loss) ($700-$1,400 repair). The most commonly reported issue is Low-Pressure Fuel Pump Failure Causing Stall (Recall 25V-586) with 175 owner reports. Across all issues, repair costs range from $150 to $3,000. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.

All 12 Known Issues

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When Issues Typically Appear

Low-Pressure Fuel Pump Failure Causing Stall (Recall 25V-586)

5K-50K

Infotainment System Random Reboots

5K-60K

Front Brake Squeal and Dust

5K-40K

Q4 AWD Transfer Case Jolting and Resonance Rumble

20K-60K

Turbo Coolant Line Leak

30K-70K

025K50K75K100K mi

Community Reported

175 owners

On the 2017-2026 Alfa Romeo Giulia, 2017+ Giulias can experience sudden engine stall or no-start due to a defective low-pressure fuel pump inside the fuel delivery module. The pump's internal commutator wears prematurely and loses contact, cutting fuel supply at any speed. NHTSA recall 25V-586 (Stellantis campaign 93C) covers free replacement. Symptoms include stalling at idle, no-start hot, and intermittent fuel pump prime noise from the rear of the vehicle. Failures cluster at 30,000-80,000 miles.

This issue also affects: Acura MDX, Alfa Romeo Stelvio, Audi A4

Common Symptoms

Engine stalls while driving
No-start condition
Multiple warning lights
Loss of electrical power

How to Fix

Have the ECM and wiring harness inspected at an Alfa Romeo dealer. FCA has issued TSB 18-024-17 REV.A addressing the wiring harness routing. ECM replacement with updated software may be required.

Typical repair cost:$200 - $2,000

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175+ owners have reported this issue

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Community Reported

High Confidence175 reportsLast reported by owners Mar 2026Reviewed Mar 2026

On the 2017-2022 Alfa Romeo Giulia, water enters the cowl/firewall area (failed bulkhead gasket, detached fresh-air vent, or clogged A/C evaporator drain) and drips onto the Body Control Module and wiring loom in the passenger footwell. The resulting corrosion and shorts cause wide-ranging, intermittent electrical failures. Owners have reported headlights, brake lights, turn signals, and driver-assist systems all cutting out at speed, plus dead batteries and warning-light storms.

Common Symptoms

Multiple warning lights / dashboard errors
Lights or signals failing while driving
Wet passenger footwell carpet
Repeated dead/drained battery
Intermittent electronic glitches

How to Fix

Fix the water-intrusion source first (reseal bulkhead gasket, reattach fresh-air vent, clear the A/C drain) before replacing electronics. A water-damaged BCM must be replaced and re-programmed with a proxy alignment (not plug-and-play); used modules often require harness re-pinning. Dry and inspect the footwell wiring loom.

Typical repair cost:$300 - $1,500

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0+ owners have reported this issue

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Community Reported

High ConfidenceVerified0 reportsLast reported by owners Invalid DateReviewed Jun 2026

Community Reported

145 owners

On the 2017-2026 Alfa Romeo Giulia, the Uconnect infotainment system reboots randomly during driving, losing navigation, audio, and phone connectivity. The system can take 30-60 seconds to restart, leaving the driver without backup camera or climate controls.

This issue also affects: Alfa Romeo Stelvio, Dodge Hornet, Dodge Charger

Common Symptoms

Screen goes black while driving
Audio cuts out
Navigation restarts
Backup camera unavailable temporarily

How to Fix

Update the Uconnect software to the latest version. Perform a factory reset if issues persist. Some units require hardware replacement of the head unit.

Typical repair cost:$0 - $1,200

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145+ owners have reported this issue

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Community Reported

High Confidence145 reportsLast reported by owners Mar 2026Reviewed Mar 2026

On the 2017-2021 Alfa Romeo Giulia, owners frequently report the 12V battery draining when the car sits for several days, often traced to modules not sleeping properly, a faulty Intelligent Battery Sensor (IBS), or BCM-related charging logic. Symptoms include battery warning lights after 4-5 days of inactivity, stop-start system failures, and corroded/leaking batteries. Measured parasitic draw stays elevated (250mA+) instead of dropping to a low sleep current.

Common Symptoms

Battery dead after sitting a few days
Battery warning light
Stop-start system not working
Slow cranking / no-start
Corroded or leaking battery

How to Fix

Replace a faulty Intelligent Battery Sensor (IBS) with the revised part, which has resolved intermittent drain for many owners. Address any BCM water damage and apply available software updates to correct charging/sleep logic; verify with a parasitic-draw test and replace the battery if internally damaged.

Typical repair cost:$150 - $600

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Community Reported

High ConfidenceVerified0 reportsLast reported by owners Invalid DateReviewed Jun 2026

On the 2017-2018 Alfa Romeo Giulia, a batch of Giulias and Stelvios left the assembly plant with brake and clutch fluid contaminated by an incompatible mineral oil. The contamination can swell seals and degrade braking performance, in some cases producing system failure with little warning. NHTSA/Alfa identified roughly 307 affected vehicles built in a specific window.

Common Symptoms

Decreased braking performance
Soft or spongy brake pedal
Brake warning light
Reduced clutch feel

How to Fix

Under the recall, dealers inspect the braking system and replace the affected brake/clutch fluid and components as necessary, free of charge. Out of warranty, a full brake fluid flush with the correct DOT-spec fluid and seal inspection is the remedy.

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Community Reported

High ConfidenceVerified0 reportsLast reported by owners Invalid DateReviewed Jun 2026

Community Reported

110 owners

On the 2017-2026 Alfa Romeo Giulia, the front brakes produce excessive squeal during light braking and generate heavy brake dust. The aggressive OEM pad compound prioritizes stopping power over noise and dust characteristics.

This issue also affects: Alfa Romeo Stelvio, Acura TLX, Audi Q5 Sportback

Common Symptoms

Squealing during light braking
Excessive black brake dust on wheels
Grinding noise when cold
Vibration during braking

How to Fix

Replace the OEM brake pads with a ceramic compound alternative for reduced noise and dust. Clean and lubricate the caliper slide pins and apply anti-squeal shims. The Quadrifoglio Brembo calipers need specific QV pads.

Typical repair cost:$150 - $500

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110+ owners have reported this issue

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Community Reported

High Confidence110 reportsLast reported by owners Mar 2026Reviewed Mar 2026

Community Reported

65 owners

On the 2017-2026 Alfa Romeo Giulia 2.0L Turbo I4, the turbocharger coolant supply and return lines develop leaks at the crimped fittings, causing coolant loss and potential overheating. The plastic quick-connect fittings become brittle from heat cycling.

This issue also affects: Alfa Romeo Stelvio, BMW Z3, Cadillac Catera

Common Symptoms

Coolant loss without visible puddle
Sweet smell from engine bay
Low coolant warning
Steam from turbo area

How to Fix

Replace the turbo coolant lines with updated Mopar parts that use improved fittings. Check the coolant level and top off with the correct FCA MS-90032 coolant. Pressure test the system after repair.

Typical repair cost:$300 - $800

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65+ owners have reported this issue

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Community Reported

Medium Confidence65 reportsLast reported by owners Mar 2026Reviewed Mar 2026

On the 2017-2019 Alfa Romeo Giulia, on the 2.0L turbo four-cylinder, owners report a metallic rattle at cold/hot start, attributed to the timing chain tensioner waiting for oil pressure or, in some cases, a loose wastegate actuator. More seriously, early 2017-2018 engines had an oil pump mounting bolt that could loosen, dropping oil pressure and accelerating chain/actuator wear; some owners found metal particles in the oil. Alfa updated the oil pump on 2019/2020+ engines.

Common Symptoms

Metallic rattle at start-up
Rattle when parking a hot engine
Louder-than-normal engine noise
Metal particles in oil
Low oil pressure warning

How to Fix

Diagnose the rattle source: tighten/replace the wastegate actuator if loose, or replace the timing chain assembly and camshaft actuators (variable valve timing solenoids) if the chain has stretched. For affected early engines, inspect/re-torque or replace the oil pump with the updated part. Maintain shorter oil-change intervals (around 6,000 miles) with correct-spec oil.

Typical repair cost:$800 - $3,000

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Community Reported

High ConfidenceVerified0 reportsLast reported by owners Invalid DateReviewed Jun 2026

On the 2017-2019 Alfa Romeo Giulia, the in-tank low-pressure fuel pump assembly can warp/degrade from underhood and operating heat, reducing or stopping fuel flow to the engine. This causes engine fuel starvation, leading to stalling or a sudden loss of motive power (LOMP) while driving, often without warning. NHTSA opened preliminary evaluation PE24-003 and the issue escalated to a full recall (25V586) covering roughly 53,849 Giulia and Stelvio vehicles; Stellantis acknowledged 437+ North American complaints and five crashes in Europe.

This issue also affects: Acura MDX, Alfa Romeo Stelvio, Audi A4

Common Symptoms

Engine stalls while driving
Sudden loss of power
Hard starting or no-start
Sputtering/hesitation under load
Check engine light

How to Fix

Under recall 25V586, dealers replace the fuel delivery module (fuel pump assembly) free of charge. Owners experiencing stalling, hard starts, or P0087 low fuel rail pressure codes should have the fuel pump tested for pressure dropout and replaced. Out of warranty, fuel pump module replacement typically runs in the listed range.

Typical repair cost:$700 - $1,400

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Community Reported

High ConfidenceVerified0 reportsLast reported by owners Invalid DateReviewed Jun 2026

Community Reported

85 owners

On the 2017-2026 Alfa Romeo Giulia 2.0L Turbo I4, the Giulia Q4 AWD system can develop two related transfer case symptoms with age: a perceptible jolt or slip during light-throttle acceleration in 2nd-3rd gear (output-shaft clutch wear) and a resonant low-frequency rumble at highway speed around 4th-5th gear (worn output bearings). Both are exacerbated by infrequent transfer-case fluid changes. The original 'whining during low-speed turns' description was incorrect — that pattern matches differential wear, not the Q4 transfer case.

This issue also affects: Alfa Romeo Stelvio, Kia Sorento, Acura RL

Common Symptoms

Whining during turns
Grinding noise during acceleration
Vibration from center tunnel
AWD warning light

How to Fix

Drain and refill the transfer case with the correct Alfa Romeo-specified fluid. If noise persists, the transfer case clutch pack assembly needs replacement. FCA extended warranty coverage for some VINs.

Typical repair cost:$300 - $2,500

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85+ owners have reported this issue

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Community Reported

Medium Confidence85 reportsLast reported by owners Mar 2026Reviewed Mar 2026

On the 2017-2022 Alfa Romeo Giulia, beyond its electrical consequences, the Giulia has a recurring water-leak problem where rain or car-wash water enters via the cowl under the windshield, a failed firewall/bulkhead seal, or a clogged A/C evaporator drain, soaking the passenger footwell carpet. Dealers report seeing the detached fresh-air vent and bulkhead leak repeatedly. Standing water promotes mold, odor, and downstream electronics corrosion.

Common Symptoms

Wet passenger or driver footwell carpet
Water dripping from under the dash
Musty/mold odor in cabin
Foggy windows
Leaks after rain or car wash

How to Fix

Identify the source: reseal the bulkhead gasket, reattach the fresh-air inlet vent, clear or extend the A/C evaporator drain tube, and confirm cowl drains are unobstructed. Dry the carpet and underlayment thoroughly and inspect any footwell electronics for water damage.

Typical repair cost:$150 - $800

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Community Reported

High ConfidenceVerified0 reportsLast reported by owners Invalid DateReviewed Jun 2026

On the 2017-2021 Alfa Romeo Giulia, the ZF 8-speed automatic, combined with throttle-by-wire and brake-by-wire, can shift harshly or hunt between gears (commonly around 3rd-4th) at low speed and light throttle, and jerk when transitioning off the auto stop-start neutral state. The behavior is exaggerated in Dynamic (D) mode where shift mapping is intentionally aggressive, and worsens when the powertrain is cold.

Common Symptoms

Jerking back and forth at low speed
Harsh shifts in Dynamic mode
Gear hunting at light throttle
Hesitation pulling away from stop

How to Fix

Have the dealer open a case to apply ECM/TCM software updates and reprogramming, which smooths shift quality for many owners. As a workaround, disable auto stop-start and use Normal/All-Weather modes for low-speed driving; ensure the car is fully warmed up. Verify transmission fluid level/condition if symptoms persist.

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Community Reported

High ConfidenceVerified0 reportsLast reported by owners Invalid DateReviewed Jun 2026

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common Alfa Romeo Giulia problems?

According to Au7o's analysis of 580+ owner reports, the 2018-2018 Alfa Romeo Giulia has 12 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: Low-Pressure Fuel Pump Failure Causing Stall (Recall 25V-586), Turbo Coolant Line Leak, Electrical Faults from Water Intrusion / BCM Failure. Of these, 6 are rated critical and should be addressed promptly.

Is the Alfa Romeo Giulia reliable?

The 2018-2018 Alfa Romeo Giulia has 12 known issues documented across 580+ owner reports. 6 issues are rated critical: Low-Pressure Fuel Pump Failure Causing Stall (Recall 25V-586) and Turbo Coolant Line Leak and Electrical Faults from Water Intrusion / BCM Failure and Timing Chain Rattle / Oil Pump Bolt Loosening (2.0T) and Contaminated Brake/Clutch Fluid (Reduced Braking) and Low-Pressure Fuel Pump Failure (Sudden Power Loss). Prospective buyers should inspect for these issues and factor potential repair costs into their purchase decision. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.

How much does it cost to fix common Alfa Romeo Giulia problems?

Repair costs for known Alfa Romeo Giulia issues range from $0 to $3,000, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, Low-Pressure Fuel Pump Failure Causing Stall (Recall 25V-586), typically costs $200-$2,000 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.

What is the 2017-2026 Alfa Romeo Giulia Low-Pressure Fuel Pump Failure Causing Stall (Recall 25V-586)?

2017+ Giulias can experience sudden engine stall or no-start due to a defective low-pressure fuel pump inside the fuel delivery module. The pump's internal commutator wears prematurely and loses contact, cutting fuel supply at any speed. NHTSA recall 25V-586 (Stellantis campaign… Repairs typically run $200-$2,000. Severity: high.

What is the 2017-2026 Alfa Romeo Giulia Turbo Coolant Line Leak?

The turbocharger coolant supply and return lines develop leaks at the crimped fittings, causing coolant loss and potential overheating. The plastic quick-connect fittings become brittle from heat cycling. Repairs typically run $300-$800. Severity: high.

All 12 Known Issues

When Issues Typically Appear

2017-2026 Alfa Romeo Giulia: Low-Pressure Fuel Pump Failure Causing Stall (Recall 25V-586)#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

Research This Issue

2017-2022 Alfa Romeo Giulia: Electrical Faults from Water Intrusion / BCM Failure#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

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2017-2026 Alfa Romeo Giulia: Infotainment System Random Reboots#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

Research This Issue

2017-2021 Alfa Romeo Giulia: Parasitic Battery Drain / IBS & Stop-Start Faults#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

Research This Issue

2017-2018 Alfa Romeo Giulia: Contaminated Brake/Clutch Fluid (Reduced Braking)#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

Research This Issue

2017-2026 Alfa Romeo Giulia: Front Brake Squeal and Dust#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

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2017-2026 Alfa Romeo Giulia: Turbo Coolant Line Leak#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

Research This Issue

2017-2019 Alfa Romeo Giulia: Timing Chain Rattle / Oil Pump Bolt Loosening (2.0T)#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

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2017-2019 Alfa Romeo Giulia: Low-Pressure Fuel Pump Failure (Sudden Power Loss)#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

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2017-2026 Alfa Romeo Giulia: Q4 AWD Transfer Case Jolting and Resonance Rumble#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

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2017-2022 Alfa Romeo Giulia: Interior/Cabin Water Leaks (Cowl, Bulkhead, A/C Drain)#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

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2017-2021 Alfa Romeo Giulia: Jerky / Hunting Transmission at Low Speed (ZF 8-Speed)#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

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Other Alfa Romeo Models

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common Alfa Romeo Giulia problems?

Is the Alfa Romeo Giulia reliable?

How much does it cost to fix common Alfa Romeo Giulia problems?

What is the 2017-2026 Alfa Romeo Giulia Low-Pressure Fuel Pump Failure Causing Stall (Recall 25V-586)?

What is the 2017-2026 Alfa Romeo Giulia Turbo Coolant Line Leak?

What is the 2017-2022 Alfa Romeo Giulia Electrical Faults from Water Intrusion / BCM Failure?

What is the 2017-2019 Alfa Romeo Giulia Timing Chain Rattle / Oil Pump Bolt Loosening (2.0T)?

What is the 2017-2018 Alfa Romeo Giulia Contaminated Brake/Clutch Fluid (Reduced Braking)?

What is the 2017-2019 Alfa Romeo Giulia Low-Pressure Fuel Pump Failure (Sudden Power Loss)?

What is the 2017-2026 Alfa Romeo Giulia Infotainment System Random Reboots?

What is the 2017-2026 Alfa Romeo Giulia Q4 AWD Transfer Case Jolting and Resonance Rumble?

What is the 2017-2022 Alfa Romeo Giulia Interior/Cabin Water Leaks (Cowl, Bulkhead, A/C Drain)?

What is the 2017-2021 Alfa Romeo Giulia Parasitic Battery Drain / IBS & Stop-Start Faults?

What is the 2017-2026 Alfa Romeo Giulia Front Brake Squeal and Dust?

What is the 2017-2021 Alfa Romeo Giulia Jerky / Hunting Transmission at Low Speed (ZF 8-Speed)?