Check a VIN

2018 Alfa Romeo Stelvio: engine overheating

5 of the 138 complaints about the 2018 Alfa Romeo Stelvio describe engine overheating.

owner complaints
5
of this car's complaints
4%
recalls
1
Is there a fix? There is 1 recall and 25 service bulletins for this area of the car. See below

Engine overheating by model year

  • 2021
    2
  • 2019
    1
  • 2018
    5

What owners say

Filed Jun 1, 2026 · Fuel system · 99,180 miles · GA

The contact owns a 2018 Alfa Romeo Stelvio. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the accelerator pedal was depressed, however the vehicle failed to accelerate as intended. In addition, the vehicle overheated. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, however the contact was informed that the parts were unavailable. The contact stated that the vehicle was taken to the dealer multiple times. In addition, the contact stated that the failure was persistent. The vehicle was towed to the residence five times. In addition, the contact was advised not to drive the vehicle a far distance. The contact received a recall notification, the federal safety agency Campaign Number: 25V586000 (Fuel System, Gasoline) however the parts were unavailable. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 99,180.

Filed Sep 17, 2025 · Electrical, Engine · TX

Description of the Problem: While operating the vehicle, multiple warning lights illuminated including the Electronic Stability Control (ESC) warning light, the check engine light, and other unknown warning indicators. In addition, several warning messages were displayed, including “Service Engine Soon” and other unknown messages. When this occurs, the vehicle begins to overheat, the auto start/stop function becomes disabled, and the vehicle loses power and will not accelerate as expected. Component or System Failed / Malfunctioned: The exact component is unknown at this time. The failure appears to be related to the engine, powertrain, or electronic control systems. The vehicle and components are available for inspection upon request. Safety Risk: The vehicle’s failure to accelerate and overheating while in motion creates a serious safety hazard. This puts the driver and passengers at risk, especially if the loss of acceleration occurs in high-speed traffic, intersections, or on highways. Reproduction of the Problem: The issue has recurred multiple times. It has not yet been officially reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center. Inspections: At this time, the vehicle has not been formally inspected by the manufacturer, police, or insurance representatives. Warning Lamps, Messages, and Symptoms Prior to Failure: The problem is preceded by the illumination of the ESC light, the check engine light, and other unknown warning lights. The messages “Service Engine Soon” and others appear immediately prior to or during the failure. These warnings occur before the loss of acceleration and overheating. Additional Notes: The failures are ongoing and have occurred more than once, raising concerns about reliability and safety.

Filed Jul 25, 2025 · Electrical, Engine · MA

The car never showed signs of an issue, I got on the car with my two children, when I attempted to start the car. The engine started smoking and smelled like burned plastic. We got out of the car, the smoke went on for about 15-30 seconds. After that the car did not start. The engine's wiring was charred. I was informed by the dealer a ground strap failed. This ground strap is exposed to the elements at the bottom of the engine and it's prone to corrode, rendering it useless and causing the electrical wiring to overheat and potentially start a fire.

Filed Jul 15, 2025 · Engine, Transmission · NY

My 2018 Alfa Romeo Stelvio was diagnosed by a certified Alfa Romeo dealer with a major engine defect involving coolant mixing with oil. The diagnosis revealed internal failure likely stemming from the oil cooler or head gasket, and the parts estimate alone was over $17,000 — not including labor. The dealer confirmed the issue but stated no recalls apply and denied warranty coverage. The car showed early signs like minor overheating and coolant loss, but no clear warning lamps or check engine lights until the issue escalated. This defect significantly increases the risk of engine failure, overheating, or loss of power while driving — posing a serious safety concern. I have since discovered multiple other owners reporting the exact same problem in Alfa Romeo forums and consumer complaint sites. The dealer has confirmed the issue but refused support. I believe this may reflect a broader design flaw affecting many vehicles and should be investigated for potential recall.

Filed Jun 1, 2024 · Engine · MD

I have had a sudden loss of coolant causing the engine to overheat. I have never had a leaking issue. But after research I’ve learned this is a common problem with this vehicle. My vehicle began to lose power causing the car to lose acceleration in traffic causing other vehicles to suddenly avoid hitting me and others. The problem has been confirmed.

Service bulletins that may apply

Related recalls

Engine and engine cooling: cooling system: hoses/lines/piping/fittingsReported September 14, 2018 · 674 vehicles affected
What is wrong
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2018-2019 Alfa Romeo Stelvio Quadrifoglio vehicles. The engine cooling hose may have inadequate webbing material allowing a coolant leak.
Risk
A loss of coolant can cause the engine to overheat and the vehicle to stall, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will replace the coolant hose, free of charge. The recall began October 10, 2018. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1‑800‑853‑1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is U99.

Recall number 18V635000 · Recall details

Questions about the 2018 Alfa Romeo Stelvio overheating

Is engine overheating a common problem on the 2018 Alfa Romeo Stelvio?

5 of 138 owner complaints about the 2018 Alfa Romeo Stelvio (4%) mention engine overheating. The model year with the most reports is 2018.

Is there a recall or service bulletin for this on the 2018 Alfa Romeo Stelvio?

There is 1 recall and 25 service bulletins for the same area of the car. Check them below with your VIN.

Other symptoms on the 2018 Alfa Romeo Stelvio

Check engine light 28Fuel pump 25Loss of power 17Stalling 16Start-stop 10Won't shift 10Warning lights 7Won't start 7ABS 5Engine failure 5Fire or smoke 5Headlights 5Hesitation 5Water leak 5

VIN decoder

See the problems and recalls for an exact car

Buying a used 2018 Alfa Romeo Stelvio?

Check the exact car before you pay: accidents, salvage or flood titles, odometer readings and previous owners.

Check its history