The Alfa Romeo 552 73 835 – Diesel is a 1,598 cc, inline — four turbo — diesel engine produced between 2010 and 2016. It was developed as part of the Fiat Global Small Engine (GSE) family, co — engineered with GM for compact applications. Featuring common rail direct injection (up to 1,600 bar), variable geometry turbocharging (VGT), and DOHC valvetrain, it delivered 88 kW (120 PS) and peak torque of 320 Nm, designed for responsive urban driving and efficient highway cruising.…
Production years 2010–2016 meet Euro 5 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/552738).
The Alfa Romeo 552 73 835 – Diesel is a 1,598 cc inline-four turbo-diesel engineered for compact hatchbacks and crossovers (2010–2016). It combines common-rail direct injection with a variable-geometry turbocharger to deliver strong low-end torque and responsive throttle. Designed to meet Euro 5 standards, it balances sporty character with everyday economy.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 1,598 cc | |
Fuel type | Diesel | |
Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
Bore × stroke | 79.5 mm × 80.5 mm | |
Power output | 88 kW (120 PS) @ 3,750 rpm | |
Torque | 320 Nm @ 1,750–2,500 rpm | |
Fuel system | Bosch CRS 2.0 common-rail (up to 1,600 bar) | |
Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
Compression ratio | 16.0:1 | |
Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
Turbocharger | Single variable-geometry turbo (Garrett GT1544V) | |
Timing system | Chain-driven (integrated in cylinder head) | |
Oil type | Fiat 9.55535-S2 M1 (5W-40) | |
Dry weight | 128 kg |
The Alfa Romeo 552 73 835 – Diesel was used across Alfa Romeo's 332/940 platforms with transverse mounting and shared with Fiat and Lancia under FCA Group collaboration. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—shorter intake manifolds in the MiTo and dual-mass flywheels in the Giulietta—and from 2014 received revised fuel calibration and pump materials, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The 552 73 835 – Diesel's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump wear, with elevated incidence in short-trip urban use. Internal Alfa Romeo quality reports from 2013 indicated a significant share of pre-2014 units required HPFP replacement before 120,000 km, while UK DVSA MOT records show EGR-related failures are common in city-driven examples. Frequent cold starts and low-quality fuel increase pump and injector stress, making fuel quality and oil change adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Alfa Romeo technical bulletins (2010–2016) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2012–2020). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
The most common questions about engine codes, what they mean, how to find them and how this database works
The 552 73 835 – Diesel offers strong low-end torque and good fuel economy, but early models (2010–2013) are prone to high-pressure fuel pump failures. Later revisions (post-2014) improved pump durability with hardened internals. When maintained properly—using high-quality diesel and correct oil (5W-40 Fiat M1)—these engines can reliably exceed 150,000 km.
The most documented issues are high-pressure fuel pump wear, EGR valve clogging, turbo actuator sticking, and oil leaks from valve cover gaskets. Fuel pump failures are especially prevalent in pre-2014 units using low-grade diesel. These concerns are addressed in Alfa Romeo Technical Bulletin 59 003 12 and routine service campaigns.
This 1.6L diesel was used in the Alfa Romeo MiTo (332) and Giulietta (940) from 2010 to 2016. It was also shared across FCA Group brands: Fiat 500X, Lancia Ypsilon, and select Opel models in Europe. All applications met Euro 5 emissions standards during their production run.
Yes. The engine responds well to ECU remapping, with stage 1 tunes typically adding +20–30 kW. The Bosch EDC17 ECU is widely supported by tuning firms. However, increased torque can stress the stock clutch and drivetrain. Supporting mods like intercooler and exhaust upgrades improve reliability under tuning.
In the Alfa Romeo Giulietta 1.6 JTDM-2, combined consumption is approximately 4.2 L/100km (~67 mpg UK). Real-world figures vary: city driving may see 5.5–6.0 L/100km, while highway runs can achieve 3.8–4.0 L/100km. Proper maintenance and use of quality diesel are essential for optimal economy.
Yes. The 552 73 835 – Diesel is an interference engine. If the timing chain fails or skips, piston-to-valve contact will occur, resulting in severe internal damage. The chain is maintenance-free per OEM, but early failure can happen due to oil starvation or poor lubrication, so oil changes must be strictly observed.
Alfa Romeo specifies Fiat 9.55535-S2 M1 (5W-40) synthetic oil. This formulation ensures proper lubrication for the high-pressure fuel pump and timing chain. Oil changes should be performed every 15,000 km or annually to maintain engine longevity and prevent fuel system wear.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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ALFA-ROMEO Official Site
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EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.
DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
UK type-approval authority for automotive products.
Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
WLTP and RDE testing procedures for emissions certification.
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
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VCA Certification Portal
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