The Alfa Romeo AR00531 is a 1,742 cc, inline-four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2010 and 2015. It features multi-point fuel injection, dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), and variable valve timing (VVT). In standard tune it delivers 103 kW (140 PS), with peak torque of 180 Nm, providing smooth power delivery for urban and highway driving.
Fitted to key models including the MiTo and Giulietta (base trims), the AR00531 was engineered for efficiency and reliability in Alfa Romeo's compact lineup. Emissions compliance was achieved through a three-way catalytic converter and closed-loop lambda control, allowing Euro 5 compliance across its production run.
One documented concern is premature timing belt wear under extended service intervals, highlighted in Alfa Romeo Technical Bulletin SIB 52 15 06. This issue, affecting pre-2013 builds, was addressed through revised tensioner design and updated maintenance intervals, improving long-term durability and reducing risk of valve train damage.
All production years (2010–2015) meet Euro 5 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5675).
The Alfa Romeo AR00531 is a 1,742 cc inline-four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for compact applications (2010–2015). It combines multi-point fuel injection with variable valve timing to deliver responsive power delivery and refined throttle control. Designed to meet Euro 5 standards, it balances everyday performance with fuel economy.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,742 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 84.0 mm × 78.0 mm | |
| Power output | 103 kW (140 PS) @ 6,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 180 Nm @ 4,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi-point fuel injection | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.8:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Timing belt (service every 120,000 km) | |
| Oil type | SAE 5W-30, ACEA A1/B1 specification | |
| Dry weight | 128 kg |
The naturally aspirated design provides smooth and linear power delivery ideal for city driving but requires adherence to 120,000 km timing belt service intervals to prevent valve train damage. SAE 5W-30 ACEA A1/B1 oil is specified for optimal performance and emissions control. Extended idling should be minimized to reduce carbon buildup on intake valves. Multi-point injection is less prone to carbon deposits than direct injection, but fuel quality still impacts longevity. Post-2013 models feature updated tensioner design; pre-2013 units should be inspected per Alfa Romeo SIB 52 15 06. Lambda sensor health monitoring is essential to maintain emissions compliance and fuel economy.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 5W-30 meeting ACEA A1/B1 specification (Alfa Romeo SIB 52 15 06). Compatible with API SL/SM standards.
Emissions: Euro 5 certification applies to all 2010–2015 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5675).
Power Ratings: Measured under UN ECE Regulation 85. Output may vary slightly based on fuel quality (Alfa Romeo TIS Doc. A00531-PERF).
Alfa Romeo Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A00531-ENG, A00531-ASPIR, SIB 52 15 06
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5675)
UN ECE Regulation 85: Power Measurement Standards
The Alfa Romeo AR00531 was used across Alfa Romeo's 380/940 platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific tuning—intake manifold geometry and ECU calibration differences—and from 2013 received updated timing belt tensioner design to improve durability. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped vertically on the right side of the cylinder block near the exhaust manifold (Alfa Romeo TIS A00531-ID). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('A' for AR00531 series). Pre-2013 models have a silver timing cover; post-2013 units use a dark grey cover. Critical differentiation from turbocharged variants: AR00531 has no turbocharger and uses a timing belt instead of a chain. Service parts require model-year verification—timing belt kits for pre-2013 engines are not interchangeable with post-2013 revised units (Alfa Romeo SIB 52 15 06).
The AR00531's primary reliability risk is timing belt failure due to extended service intervals, with elevated incidence in neglected maintenance. Internal Alfa Romeo field reports from 2014 indicated a notable number of pre-2013 units requiring timing belt replacement before 120,000 km, while UK DVSA data links a significant share of emissions-related failures to lambda sensor degradation in high-mileage examples. Poor fuel quality and infrequent servicing increase carbon buildup and thermal stress, making oil quality and maintenance adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Alfa Romeo technical bulletins (2010–2015) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2012–2018). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about ALFA-ROMEO AR00531.
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)
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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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