The Alfa Romeo 552 68 818 is a 1,956 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). Developed in collaboration with Fiat Powertrain Technologies, it delivered 100 kW (136 PS) and 320 Nm of torque, providing strong mid-range performance for compact executive vehicles.
Fitted to models such as the 159 2.0 JTDM, GT 2.0 JTDM, and Brera 2.0 JTDM, the 552 68 818 was engineered for responsive driving dynamics and refined cruising. Emissions compliance was achieved via exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) and a diesel particulate filter (DPF), enabling Euro 4 compliance across its production run.
One documented concern is high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) degradation, particularly in units subjected to extended service intervals or low-quality diesel fuel. This issue, referenced in Alfa Romeo Technical Bulletin 552-06-818-TB01, stems from inadequate lubrication and contamination. From 2008, revised pump calibration and updated fuel filtration were introduced to improve durability.
Production years 2006–2010 meet Euro 4 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/55268818).
The Alfa Romeo 552 68 818 is a 1,956 cc inline-four turbo-diesel engineered for compact executive models (2006–2010). It combines common-rail direct injection with a variable geometry turbocharger to deliver responsive mid-range torque and balanced efficiency. Designed to meet Euro 4 standards, it supports refined performance with regulatory compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,956 cc | |
| Fuel type | Diesel | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 83.0 mm × 90.4 mm | |
| Power output | 100 kW (136 PS) @ 4,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 320 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 | Chain-driven (single-row, front-mounted) | |
| Oil type | Fiat 9.55535-S2 (SAE 5W-40) | |
| Dry weight | 158 kg |
The VGT-equipped turbo provides strong mid-range pull ideal for spirited driving but demands strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals using Fiat 9.55535-S2 (5W-40) specification to maintain turbo and fuel pump longevity. Ultra-low-sulfur diesel (EN 590) is essential to prevent high-pressure fuel system wear. EGR and DPF systems require regular highway runs to prevent soot accumulation and regeneration issues. Pre-2008 models are more prone to HPFP failures; post-2008 revisions with improved filtration show enhanced reliability. Timing chain inspections are recommended beyond 180,000 km, though failures are rare with proper maintenance.
Oil Specs: Requires Fiat 9.55535-S2 (5W-40) specification (Alfa Romeo SIB 552-06-818-TB02). Supersedes ACEA B4 requirements.
Emissions: Euro 4 certification applies to all models (2006–2010) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/55268818).
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. Output consistent across fuel grades meeting EN 590 (Alfa Romeo TIS Doc. A552-81810).
Alfa Romeo Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A552-81800, A552-81803, A552-81805, SIB 552-06-818-TB01
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/55268818)
ISO 1585: Road vehicles — Engine test code — Net power
The Alfa Romeo 552 68 818 was used across Alfa Romeo's 939 platform with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific tuning for sportier throttle response in the Brera and GT, and from 2008 updated fuel calibration to improve HPFP durability, creating minor service part distinctions. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front-facing side of the cylinder block near the transmission bellhousing (Alfa Romeo TIS A552-81804). The 8th VIN digit identifies the engine ('Z' for 552 68 818). Pre-2008 models have a Bosch EDC16CP35 ECU; post-2008 units retain the same designation but with revised HPFP firmware. Visual differentiation is minimal—service parts require production date verification. HPFP units before 06/2008 are incompatible with later models due to internal revisions (Alfa Romeo TB 552-06-818-TB01).
The 552 68 818's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump degradation, with elevated incidence in vehicles using substandard diesel or exceeding oil change intervals. Internal Alfa Romeo field reports from 2009 indicated a notable share of pre-2008 units requiring HPFP replacement before 150,000 km, while UK DVSA records show increased EGR-related faults in urban-driven examples. Extended short-trip driving and poor fuel quality increase pump and EGR stress, making fuel standards and maintenance adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Alfa Romeo technical bulletins (2006–2010) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2010–2020). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about ALFA-ROMEO 55268818.
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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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