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What should I look for when buying a 2005 Alfa Romeo Spider?

I am looking at a 2005 Alfa Romeo Spider. What should I look out for? Are there any known issues or problems?

Asked on 13 November 2019 by Jeremy Biggs

Answered by Keith Moody
Like any old car, there's plenty to watch out for. You'll need to check the engine oil level because the car is known to drink oil and oil pumps are prone to failure. The timing belt should be changed every 36k on the 2.0 and every 60k on the V6. If it's hunting at tick over, it could be a failed idle control motor. If the biting point on the clutch is high, it would mean a bill is on the cards. Check for wear on the inner edges of the front tyres, possibly caused by worn front lower wishbones. You'll also want to check the condition of the hood - as well as making sure everything works.
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