The Alfa Romeo 552 66 388 is a 1,910 cc, inline-four turbo-diesel engine produced between 2006 and 2010. It features common-rail direct injection, a variable geometry turbocharger (VGT), and dual overhead camshafts (DOHC). Delivering 120 kW (163 PS) and peak torque of 350 Nm, this engine was engineered for responsive urban driving and efficient highway cruising.
Fitted to the Alfa Romeo 159, Brera, and Spider models, the 552 66 388 engine was designed to balance driver engagement with fuel economy. Emissions compliance was achieved via exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) and a diesel particulate filter (DPF), meeting Euro 4 standards across its production run. Its refined power delivery suited both daily commuting and long-distance touring.
One documented reliability concern involves premature EGR valve clogging, particularly in vehicles used for frequent short journeys. This issue, referenced in Alfa Romeo Technical Bulletin 552-TB-07, stems from incomplete combustion and soot accumulation under low-load conditions. From 2008, revised EGR cooling protocols and updated control algorithms were implemented to mitigate fouling risks.
Production years 2006–2010 meet Euro 4 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/552663).
The Alfa Romeo 552 66 388 is a 1,910 cc inline-four turbo-diesel engineered for mid-size platforms (2006–2010). It combines high-pressure common-rail injection with a single variable-geometry turbocharger to deliver responsive low-end torque and smooth acceleration. Designed to meet Euro 4 emissions standards, it balances sporty driving dynamics with everyday fuel efficiency.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,910 cc | |
| Fuel type | Diesel | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 83.0 mm × 88.3 mm | |
| Power output | 120 kW (163 PS) @ 3,750 rpm | |
| Torque | 350 Nm @ 1,750–2,750 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch CRS 2.0 common-rail (up to 1,600 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 4 | |
| Compression ratio | 16.7:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single variable-geometry turbo (Garrett GT1749V) | |
| Timing system | Timing chain (front-mounted) | |
| Oil type | SAE 5W-40, ACEA B4 | |
| Dry weight | 148 kg |
The VGT turbo provides strong low-RPM torque ideal for spirited driving but requires adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals to maintain EGR and turbo longevity. SAE 5W-40 ACEA B4 oil is essential to handle soot loading and maintain viscosity under thermal stress. Short-trip driving increases EGR clogging risk; periodic highway runs help regenerate the DPF. The Bosch CP3 pump demands ultra-low-sulfur diesel (EN 590) to prevent injector wear. Post-2008 models benefit from updated EGR duty cycles and improved cooling; pre-2008 units should follow Alfa Romeo SIB 552-TB-07 for preventive cleaning.
Oil Specs: Requires ACEA B4 5W-40 specification (Alfa Romeo SIB 552-OIL-08). Compatible with API CF/CH-4.
Emissions: Euro 4 certification applies to all production years (2006–2010) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/552663).
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. Output maintained on standard diesel fuel (EN 590) (Alfa Romeo TIS Doc. A552-404).
Alfa Romeo Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A552-400, A552-401, A552-402, SIB 552-TB-07
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/552663)
ISO International Standards: ISO 1585 Road Vehicles — Engine Test Code
The Alfa Romeo 552 66 388 was used across Alfa Romeo's 939 platform with transverse mounting and shared architecture with Fiat and Lancia derivatives. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake manifolds in the Spider and revised engine mounts in the Brera-and from 2008 updated EGR control strategies were implemented, creating partial interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front lower edge of the cylinder block near the transmission bellhousing (Alfa Romeo TIS A552-405). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('C' for 1.9 JTDm). Pre-2008 units have a silver valve cover with a black plastic cam cover; post-2008 models feature an all-black cover. Critical differentiation from 1.9 JTDm variants: The 552 66 388 uses a Bosch EDC16C39 ECU with a 120-pin connector. Service parts require model-year verification—EGR coolers before 2008 are not interchangeable with later units due to internal fin redesign (Alfa Romeo SIB 552-TB-07).
The 552 66 388's primary reliability risk is EGR system clogging, with elevated incidence in urban and short-trip driving. Internal Alfa Romeo field reports from 2009 indicated a significant number of pre-2008 units required EGR servicing before 100,000 km, while UK DVSA MOT records show a notable correlation between DPF-related failures and EGR faults in city-driven vehicles. Low-load operation and infrequent regeneration increase soot accumulation, making driving pattern and maintenance adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Alfa Romeo technical bulletins (2007–2011) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2012–2020). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about ALFA-ROMEO 55266388.
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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