Alfa romeo Tonale problems

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The Alfa Romeo Tonale is a car produced by the Italian company Alfa Romeo since February 2022. Being a five-seater compact crossover SUV, it slots above the Alfa Romeo Junior and below the Alfa Romeo Stelvio in the marque's crossover SUV range. Known internally as the 965, the Tonale is the first hybrid-powered Alfa Romeo and became the first new model introduced by the brand in six years. It is named after the Tonale mountain pass in Northern Italy.

In August 2022, a rebadged and restyled version was unveiled as the Dodge Hornet, exclusive to the North American market as the smallest, entry-level SUV offering from Dodge. The Hornet will be sold alongside the Tonale in the region with different specs and lower pricing.

Overview

The production Tonale was originally scheduled for release in 2021, but was delayed until 2022 due to the global semiconductor shortage and Alfa Romeo management demanding better range and performance from its drivetrain. It was developed during the ownership of Fiat Chrysler Automobiles and underpinned by a heavily modified version of the SCCS crossover platform shared with the Jeep Compass. It is also the first Alfa Romeo to be equipped with an optional plug-in hybrid system, which uses a 15.5 kWh (56 MJ) lithium-ion battery to achieve 30 miles (48 km) of all-electric range. The Tonale marks the brand's electrification effort, where Alfa Romeo will be the first brand among the 14 brands of Stellantis to go fully electric by 2027. The Tonale is marketed in the premium segment, and has been described variously as a "compact crossover", a "compact SUV", a "small SUV", and a "tall hatchback".

All models of the Tonale are equipped with a 12.3-inch (31 cm) digital infotainment cluster and a 10.25-inch (26.0 cm) infotainment screen, which will run on the Uconnect 5 software suite. In addition, the Tonale will come with an NFT that records and stores data of the car's life cycle. According to Alfa Romeo, the NFT will generate a certificate that Stellantis claims can help maintain the car's residual value. The Verge noted that Alfa Romeo had not provided much information about what blockchain technology they intended to use for this. Jalopnik felt that digitising a car's service history was a good idea, but that blockchain NFTs were a "bad" and "entirely unnecessary" way to achieve this.

According to Alfa Romeo, the Tonale was designed to offer more driving engagement than the class average by using a very quick steering rack (2.3 turns lock-to-lock). It also features torque vectoring by braking, frequency-selective dampers as standard, and adaptive items and four-piston brakes on the range-topping Veloce.

photo of Alfa romeo Tonale car production

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Alfa romeo Tonale model years

alfa romeo tonale 2024 photo
Tonale 2024
Alfa romeo

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Common Alfa romeo Tonale problems

The Alfa Romeo Tonale, a compact SUV with PHEV technology and design flair, has been met with mixed reviews from owners. While many appreciate its looks and design, several common problems have been reported, particularly regarding the powertrain and refinement.

  • Powertrain and Refinement Issues: The powertrain, which combines an electric motor and an internal combustion engine, has been criticized for poor refinement and a lack of synergy between the two components. This has led to slow move-offs and required perseverance when accelerating, especially on motorways. The electric motor and engine seem to not work well together, which is disappointing for an Alfa Romeo vehicle.
  • Check Engine Error: Some owners have reported a check engine error, which can be caused by various issues, including over-revving of the engine. This error has been reported as early as the 11th of October, indicating a potential issue with the engine management system.
  • AEB Error: The Advanced Emergency Braking (AEB) system has been reported to trigger an error, requiring a service. This error seems to be more prevalent in wet or damp conditions, which can be concerning for drivers who rely on this safety feature.
  • Cruise Control Issues: In 'A' battery-only mode, the cruise control has been reported to disengage, which can be dangerous on motorways or country roads, as the vehicle slows down quickly. Additionally, the cruise control has been known to disengage randomly, and upshifting the cruise control can cause the vehicle to attempt to speed up to 100mph, which is a significant safety concern.
  • Speed Warning Errors: Inconsistent speed warnings have been reported, with the vehicle displaying incorrect speeds in KPH instead of the standard UK mph speeds. This can cause confusion and lead to potential speeding violations.
  • Infotainment System Issues: The infotainment system has been reported to freeze or reboot, which can be frustrating when using the satellite navigation system, especially in unfamiliar areas. Additionally, the wireless charger has been reported to be intermittent, which can be inconvenient for users who rely on wireless charging for their devices.
  • Boot Space: The Tonale's boot space is reduced due to the PHEV system, resulting in 115 litres less storage compared to the mild hybrid version. This reduction in space can be a challenge for young families who need to carry a lot of gear around.

These common problems have led some owners to lose faith in the vehicle, with many reporting numerous teething issues and a lack of support from Alfa Romeo in addressing these problems.

Alfa romeo Tonale

What is the most common problem with the Alfa Romeo?

By understanding these problems, potential owners can make informed decisions and take necessary precautions.

  • Electrical Problems. ...
  • Engine Misfires. ...
  • Anti-Lock Brake Failure. ...
  • Failing Rear Brake Discs. ...
  • Fuel Leaks and Fire Risk. ...
  • Other Common Alfa Romeo Giulia Problems. ...
  • Reliability of the Alfa Romeo Giulia.

What is the battery life of the Alfa Romeo Tonale?

The Alfa Romeo Tonale has an EPA estimated all-electric range on a single electric charge of 32 miles( Disclosure5), and a combined EPA estimated total range of 360 miles( Disclosure6).

What is the real mpg of the Alfa Tonale?

If you don't charge the battery or run it flat on a longer journey you'll see around 41.5mpg in the plug-in hybrid Tonale, as we experienced first hand when we pitted one against a similarly electrified Volvo XC40 T5 Recharge.

Has Alfa Romeo quality improved?

This summer, Alfa was the highest-scoring premium brand in JD Power's Initial Quality Study (and third overall, beaten only by fellow Stellantis brands Ram and Dodge), and now Alfa's CEO Jean-Philippe Imparato has revealed that his quality drive has been so successful that it's halved the firm's warranty costs.

Percentage distribution of complaints by Alfa romeo Tonale years

We have researched Alfa romeo problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Alfa romeo Tonale cars and compiled the top 1 most problematic Alfa romeo Tonale model years:

Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Alfa romeo Tonale model years.

Distribution of the number of complaints by Alfa romeo Tonale years

We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:

Alfa romeo Tonale car problems categorized by type of issue

After analysing all complaints related to Alfa romeo Tonale , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:

  • Electrical system problems
  • Engine problems
  • Power train problems
  • Forward collision avoidance problems
  • Fuel/propulsion system problems

The graph below shows statistics for all Alfa romeo Tonale vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

The NHTSA has received 4 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Alfa romeo Tonale . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Alfa romeo Tonale vehicles.

List of Alfa romeo Tonale complaints

Alfa romeo Tonale 2024
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-10-16
  • Date Complaint: 2024-10-18
  • VIN: ZASPATDW2R3
  • Components: POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
  • Summary: At any point in time when driving, the dashboard could turn on all error and warning lights, which leaves the vehicle unable to accelerate above 15mph. The errors indicate issues with parking brake, steering, stability control, engine, hill start assist, electronic throttle control, and autonomous emergency braking. After a period of time for the vehicle being turned off, most of the warnings and errors will clear and the vehicle will only show the check engine light when started and in operation, however, at any point in time that the vehicle is in use while driving, the same exact situation occurs. The vehicle was towed to the dealership four times for this issue. Initially on 1/25/2024 where the technician "reset codes" per the invoice. The next occurence was on 3/27/2024 where the vehicle was disabled completely, unable to power on to even get it into gear. Again, software errors were cleared and they sent us away. Now, in October, we had to have the vehicle towed in twice - 10/2/2024 where the technician "reset codes related to radio" and most recently on 10/16/2024. Again, same exact issue, they reset codes again and said the vehicle was fine. The most recent occurrence on 10/16/2024 is the one where the safety concerns happened. I had just got onto I-270 S, began accellerating to 45mph (heavy traffic in the AM) and the dashboard lit up. At this point, I lose the ability to accelerate the vehicle, nearly getting hit from behind. I was able to get the vehicle over to the shoulder and get to the next exit to get off the interstate. I had to drive on the shoulder as I couldn't accelerate. I was unable to accelerate above 15mph and it took me nearly an hour to get home - just a 2-mile distance. There is no way to tell when this error and issue will occur - there's no pattern to what we're doing when it happens - and further, if we're driving the vehicle again, we don't want to be put in a situation where we can't control the vehicle on an interstate.
Alfa romeo Tonale 2024
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-02-03
  • Date Complaint: 2024-02-19
  • VIN: ZASPATDWXR3
  • Components: FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
  • Summary: Automatic emergency braking randomly engaged braking the vehicle while traveling 75 miles per hour on an interstate highway. I had moved into the left lane to pass a semi. I moved over with plenty of space between me and the semi and was next to the semi cab when my vehicle started beeping, flashing BRAKE on the dash, and then started to brake hard. I was able to slam my foot on the gas pedal and override the braking. There were no vehicles in front of me on the road for quite a distance. Luckily there was no car behind me to rear end me and I did not lose control and swerve into the median on my left or into the semi on my right. I have taken the vehicle to the dealership, who was not able to find any issue. I have also logged a case with Alfa Romeo support (case number can be provided if needed). Alfa Romeo customer support was not helpful in any way and has closed my case with no resolution to the issue. I feel this is a major safety issue and I am afraid to drive my vehicle at higher speeds for fear it will autonomously brake for no reason and cause an accident.
Alfa romeo Tonale 2024
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-02-09
  • Date Complaint: 2024-02-18
  • VIN: ZASPATCW6R3
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
  • Summary: Leased a brand new 2024 Alfa Romeo Tonale (first year new model production) on 12-23-23. This is a hybrid. On [XXX] at 1347 miles the car would not start. Entire electrical system shut down. Towed to dealership were purchased - Stateline Alfa Romeo in Fort Mill SC. Car was released to me on [XXX] and dealer charged battery but had no idea what caused failure. On [XXX] again at 1681 miles electrical system totally failed once again - car would not start and flatbedded again to Stateline Alfa. Car was keep a week until [XXX] at dealership. I came to pick up the car after they charged the battery again and not knowing cause of failure again, but now car would not start again right at the dealership after they told me it was fixed and ready to pick up. They said they have had conversations with the engineers in Italy but still do not know the cause of the electrical failure. They are going to keep the car another week to trouble shoot. So this new car is on its third repair at the dealership in the 2 months since I have owned it and will be in the shop 2 and a half to 3 weeks so far. I believe I have a lemon on a new model year car. I asked the dealership for an exchange to a new Tonale but they said it’s the manufacturers problem not theirs . Please help in anyway you can! Thank you, [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Alfa romeo Tonale 2024
  • Date Of Incident: 2023-10-03
  • Date Complaint: 2023-10-12
  • VIN: ZASPATCW8R3
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES
  • Summary: The lower bolt attaching the left rear brake caliper fell out at about 1400 miles.

Latest 5 recalls Alfa romeo Tonale

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 5 recalls for different components of the Alfa romeo Tonale.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.

  • Model: Alfa romeo Tonale 2024
  • Report Received Date: 2024-10-09
  • Manufacturer: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC)
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:PEDALS AND LINKAGES
  • Summary: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2024-2025 Dodge Hornet and Alfa Romeo Tonale vehicles. The brake pedal may collapse and cause a loss of brake function.
  • Consequence: A loss of brake function increases the risk of a crash.
  • Remedy: Dealers will reinforce the brake pedal arm, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed October 17, 2024. Owners may contact FCA Customer Service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA's number for this recall is B7B.
  • Model: Alfa romeo Tonale 2024
  • Report Received Date: 2024-03-19
  • Manufacturer: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) (Stellantis)
  • Components: EQUIPMENT:OTHER:LABELS
  • Summary: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2024 Dodge Hornet and Alfa Romeo Tonale vehicles. The manufacturer label is missing the tire rim and tire size information. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 110, "Tire Selection and Rims."
  • Consequence: Missing rim and tire size information could lead to an incorrect wheel being installed, increasing the risk of a crash.
  • Remedy: Dealers will apply a corrected label, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 4, 2024. Owners may contact FCA customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA's number for this recall is 32B.
  • Model: Alfa romeo Tonale 2024
  • Report Received Date: 2024-03-05
  • Manufacturer: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) (Stellantis)
  • Components: EQUIPMENT:OTHER:LABELS
  • Summary: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2023-2024 Dodge Hornet and Alfa Romeo Tonale vehicles. The maximum vehicle capacity weight value on the tire placard label is incorrect. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 110, "Tire Selection and Rims."
  • Consequence: A vehicle with an incorrect maximum capacity weight value may be overloaded, which can increase the risk of a crash.
  • Remedy: Dealers will add an overlay label to the tire placard information, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 28, 2024. Owners may contact FCA US, LLC customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA US, LLC's number for this recall is 28B.
  • Model: Alfa romeo Tonale 2024
  • Report Received Date: 2023-10-17
  • Manufacturer: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC)
  • Components: BACK OVER PREVENTION:WARNINGS:EXTERNAL/PEDESTRIAN ALERT
  • Summary: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2023-2024 Dodge Hornet and Alfa Romeo Tonale Plug-In Hybrid vehicles. The pedestrian alert siren may be missing or disconnected and fail to alert pedestrians when the vehicle is in reverse. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 141, "Minimum Sound Requirements for Hybrid and Electric Vehicles."
  • Consequence: Failure to alert pedestrians when backing up increases the risk of injury.
  • Remedy: Dealers will inspect the rear pedestrian siren connection and, if necessary, secure and/or replace the connector or siren, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed November 14, 2023. Owners may contact FCA US, LLC customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is B5A.
  • Model: Alfa romeo Tonale 2024
  • Report Received Date: 2023-09-07
  • Manufacturer: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC)
  • Park Out Side: 1
  • Park Out Side: 1
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:PROPULSION SYSTEM: CABLES:FASTENER/CONNECTOR
  • Summary: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2023-2024 Alfa Romeo Tonale and 2023-2024 Dodge Hornet plug-in hybrid electric vehicles. The 12-volt battery positive cable and/or high voltage connector cable may not be tightened properly, which can overheat the electrical connections and result in a fire while parked or driving.
  • Consequence: A fire while parked or driving can increase the risk of injury.
  • Remedy: Owners are advised to park outside and away from structures until the recall repair is complete. Dealers will inspect and tighten the cable connections as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed September 28, 2023. Owners may contact FCA US, LLC customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA US, LLC's number for this recall is 98A.

Latest positive Alfa romeo Tonale car reviews

  1. Tod Pacocha 2024-05-04

    Vehicle year: 2024

    I've only had this plug-in and gas-saving SUV for nearly three months, and so far, I'm very happy with it. It's high-tech yet simple enough to use for short or long drives every day, whether on electric or gas motors, or both at the same time. I highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys driving and wants to do so in style.

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