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2020 Alfa Romeo Stelvio Owner Complaints

Updated May 30, 20269 Critical Recalls
Ryan Davis

Complaint Summary

The 2020 Alfa Romeo Stelvio has 24 reported complaints.

  • Top issues involve engine and power train.

Reliability Score

Reliability Score

6.1/ 10

Based on 24 complaints

Most Frequent Issues

ENGINE

4 16.7%

POWER TRAIN

3 12.5%

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

3 12.5%

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

3 12.5%

LANE DEPARTURE: ASSIST

2 8.3%

Quick Insights

  • The top category is ENGINE, accounting for 16.7% of all complaints.

  • Owners have reported issues across 13 distinct vehicle systems.

  • Note: Complaint data reflects owner reports and may not always indicate a verified defect. Compare with Recalls and TSBs for a complete picture.

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Complaint Summary

What owners keep reporting on the 2020 Alfa Romeo Stelvio

The 2020 Alfa Romeo Stelvio has 24 owner complaints in this dataset. ENGINE is the most common complaint category, representing about 17% of the reports shown here.

Most common complaint categories

The top complaint groups for the 2020 Alfa Romeo Stelvio are ENGINE (4), POWER TRAIN (3), UNKNOWN OR OTHER (3).

Are these complaints a serious red flag?

Potentially. 12 complaint reports involve higher-attention systems like brakes, steering, engine, powertrain, fuel, suspension, airbags, or electrical components, which is enough to justify a focused inspection.

What should buyers inspect on a used 2020 Alfa Romeo Stelvio?

Start with the top complaint systems, compare them against the recall report, then inspect service records for evidence that those same areas were already repaired or monitored.

Read the full buyer guideRecall report and remedy notesMaintenance costs and intervals2019 Stelvio complaints2021 Stelvio complaints2018 Stelvio complaints

Detailed Complaint Log

Showing 13 of 13 systems

ENGINE

4 Reports17% of total

Previewing the first 2 complaint summaries.

The contact owns a 2020 Alfa Romeo Stelvio. The contact stated while driving at various speeds, the vehicle sputtered, lost motive power, and stalled. The contact stated that after coasting to the side of the roadway, the vehicle was restarted. The contact stated that after restarting the vehicle, the START/STOP light was displayed on the instrument panel. The contact stated that the vehicle was towed to the dealer and was diagnosed and determined that a tune-up was needed. The dealer did not complete a tune-up. The vehicle was then towed to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed and determined that engine oil had mixed with coolant and then leaked into the engine. The contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and confirmed that there was no recall on the VIN. The contact was referred to the NHTSA Hotline to file a complaint. The approximate failure mileage was 60,000. The VIN was not available.

1/11/2024

Please be advised that Alfa Romeo vehicles are experiencing a very large number of gear shift selecting buttons that "POP OFF" during driving and while parked and can't be driven or moved!!! This is a know reported and COMMON ISSUE according to the ALFA ROMEO SERVICE MANAGER but not a reported recall issue!!! This is unsafe and very dangerous and should be considered a recall safety issue by the manufacture, owners and public immediately!!! This small piece of equipment that just unexpectedly "POPS OFF" can cause serious injury! 2020 ALFA ROMEO STELVIO - Miles: 69866

1/16/2024

2 more complaints are available in this category.

POWER TRAIN

3 Reports13% of total

Previewing the first 2 complaint summaries.

When leaving to go to work, I pressed the button on the gear shift to put the car into reverse and then drive. I heard something click into the cupholders as I drove. It was the gear shift button. The plastic actuator button fell off completely. It would not fit back in. I think the plastic broke. I continued to drive to work, but when I got to work, I could not put the car into reverse. I was able to pull into a space, and put it in Park (which is a different button on top of the gear shift). When I returned to my car, it was impossible to move the car out of park. Manually putting the button back on, or taping it into position did not work. There was no override (I called the dealer to verify what I should do). Trying with my fingers to push the keypad inside did not work. I had to have the car towed to the dealer. The tow truck driver had difficulty also, as he could not put it into Neutral to avoid damage. There is a bolt on the transmission underneath to take it out of gear, but the dealer said that requires a special aftermarket tool, not provided with the vehicle. It was impossible to get the car out of park by trying to insert fingers or other objects into the hole where the button had been. This was literally a walk home scenario. With this plastic button broken - the car was stuck in a parking garage in park indefinitely. Only the tow truck driver's persistence of jamming different kinds of objects into the gear shift for over 35 min allowed him to finally be able to activate the switch with the button missing. It's at the dealer now, but I was basically stranded with no ways to override this and get the car in gear. This seems like a concern (and a fairly simple root cause to solve with a more robust button - or a minimum some kind of accessible alternative method to get out of park)

11/10/2022

Please be advised that Alfa Romeo vehicles are experiencing a very large number of gear shift selecting buttons that "POP OFF" during driving and while parked and can't be driven or moved!!! This is a know reported and COMMON ISSUE according to the ALFA ROMEO SERVICE MANAGER but not a reported recall issue!!! This is unsafe and very dangerous and should be considered a recall safety issue by the manufacture, owners and public immediately!!! This small piece of equipment that just unexpectedly "POPS OFF" can cause serious injury! 2020 ALFA ROMEO STELVIO - Miles: 69866

1/16/2024

1 more complaint is available in this category.

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

3 Reports13% of total

Previewing the first 2 complaint summaries.

Please be advised that Alfa Romeo vehicles are experiencing a very large number of gear shift selecting buttons that "POP OFF" during driving and while parked and can't be driven or moved!!! This is a know reported and COMMON ISSUE according to the ALFA ROMEO SERVICE MANAGER but not a reported recall issue!!! This is unsafe and very dangerous and should be considered a recall safety issue by the manufacture, owners and public immediately!!! This small piece of equipment that just unexpectedly "POPS OFF" can cause serious injury! 2020 ALFA ROMEO STELVIO - Miles: 69866

1/16/2024

Upon starting the vehicle a number of warning lights illuminated including the battery light. Upon viewing the battery compartment the plastic enclosure surrounding the battery had a few inches of water inside. I do have videos showing the water inside the compartment and also video of water being vacuumed out of the compartment. We did some research and found that this exact same issue sparked a recall in the same model vehicle in 2018. Very dangerous and i hope this is not happening to others, based on our research it is.

8/1/2025

1 more complaint is available in this category.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

3 Reports13% of total

Previewing the first 2 complaint summaries.

Upon starting the vehicle a number of warning lights illuminated including the battery light. Upon viewing the battery compartment the plastic enclosure surrounding the battery had a few inches of water inside. I do have videos showing the water inside the compartment and also video of water being vacuumed out of the compartment. We did some research and found that this exact same issue sparked a recall in the same model vehicle in 2018. Very dangerous and i hope this is not happening to others, based on our research it is.

8/1/2025

I am writing to formally request an investigation into a serious safety defect affecting my 2020 Alfa Romeo Stelvio . I believe this issue is part of a broader pattern of manufacturing and design flaws that have compromised both safety and reliability •My vehicle experienced a catastrophic engine failure, resulting in a total repair estimate of approximately $32,000. This failure occurred without prior warning signs and is highly unusual for a vehicle of this age and mileage. Based on public recall data for the 2020 Stelvio, the following safety recalls may be related to my vehicle’s failure: •21V878 (Nov 2021): Fuel line sensor housing crack—potential for fuel leak, engine stall, or fire risk. •23V382 (May 2023): Cracks in carbon-ceramic brake rotors—risk of fracture under stress. •24V943 (Dec 2024): Loose connection between brake pedal and booster—risk of loss of braking effectiveness. •24V510 (Jul 2024): Faulty seatbelt buckle sensor—could prevent proper airbag deployment. These defects raise questions about the integrity and safety of critical vehicle systems. I request that my vehicle be evaluated for recall applicability and, if eligible, covered under required repair programs •The failure rendered my vehicle inoperable, imposing an immense financial burden due to the exorbitant repair cost. •I believe this is not an isolated incident but indicative of a systemic defect. •If unresolved, this poses ongoing safety risks to me, my passengers, and other road users. I respectfully request that the NHTSA: 1.Initiate an investigation into whether this engine failure is representative of a larger safety defect across the 2020 Stelvio vehicle population. 2.Review the applicability of relevant recalls (listed above) to my VIN. 3.Require Alfa Romeo to provide recall remedies, reimbursement, or a goodwill resolution where appropriate. 4. Issue a technical directive (TSB or recall) if a broader manufacturing defect is identified. Thank you

8/11/2025

1 more complaint is available in this category.

LANE DEPARTURE: ASSIST

2 Reports8% of total

Previewing the first 2 complaint summaries.

I was in an accident that was can be contributed to my lane keeping assistance. Once the car crashed into another vehicle my airbags failed to deploy.

8/11/2024

My Alfa Romeo Stelvio 2020 on Oct 29,2025 stop functioning all the ADAS system as well as the sunroof. Because of this a had a small accident with a gate as it did not advised me. I read in a few websites that I am not the only person having this same issue. This is a very serious issue that Alfa Romeo manufacturing should fix immediately before it can become a tragic event.

10/30/2025

FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

2 Reports8% of total

Previewing the first 2 complaint summaries.

I am writing to formally request an investigation into a serious safety defect affecting my 2020 Alfa Romeo Stelvio . I believe this issue is part of a broader pattern of manufacturing and design flaws that have compromised both safety and reliability •My vehicle experienced a catastrophic engine failure, resulting in a total repair estimate of approximately $32,000. This failure occurred without prior warning signs and is highly unusual for a vehicle of this age and mileage. Based on public recall data for the 2020 Stelvio, the following safety recalls may be related to my vehicle’s failure: •21V878 (Nov 2021): Fuel line sensor housing crack—potential for fuel leak, engine stall, or fire risk. •23V382 (May 2023): Cracks in carbon-ceramic brake rotors—risk of fracture under stress. •24V943 (Dec 2024): Loose connection between brake pedal and booster—risk of loss of braking effectiveness. •24V510 (Jul 2024): Faulty seatbelt buckle sensor—could prevent proper airbag deployment. These defects raise questions about the integrity and safety of critical vehicle systems. I request that my vehicle be evaluated for recall applicability and, if eligible, covered under required repair programs •The failure rendered my vehicle inoperable, imposing an immense financial burden due to the exorbitant repair cost. •I believe this is not an isolated incident but indicative of a systemic defect. •If unresolved, this poses ongoing safety risks to me, my passengers, and other road users. I respectfully request that the NHTSA: 1.Initiate an investigation into whether this engine failure is representative of a larger safety defect across the 2020 Stelvio vehicle population. 2.Review the applicability of relevant recalls (listed above) to my VIN. 3.Require Alfa Romeo to provide recall remedies, reimbursement, or a goodwill resolution where appropriate. 4. Issue a technical directive (TSB or recall) if a broader manufacturing defect is identified. Thank you

8/11/2025

While driving at approximately 40 mph, my Alfa Romeo Stelvio suddenly lost all power without warning. The vehicle went from operating normally to immediately illuminating multiple warning lights on the dashboard. I was unable to accelerate and nearly struck by another vehicle due to the sudden loss of power. I had to coast to the side of the road and have the vehicle towed to a repair shop. Upon inspection, it was determined that the fuel pump had failed. I was informed by the technicians that this is a common issue in Alfa Romeo’s and that the previous two model years have already had fuel pump–related recalls. This sudden failure created a serious safety hazard and appears to be part of an ongoing pattern.

12/2/2025

WHEELS

1 Report4% of total

Previewing the first 1 complaint summaries.

ALFA ROMEO IN DETROIT, MI HAS BEEN CONTACTED, AND THE REPLY AFTER A ONE-DAY WAIT THAT THE TEAM CONCLUDED THAT THE TIRE ON THE CAR IS GOOD EVEN TRIED TO EXPLAIN THAT THE TOP SPEED OF AN ALFA ROMEO STELVIO TI SPORT AWD CAN RUN EASILY 140 MPH. THESE CONTINENTAL TIRES RATING 'H' TOP SPEED IS 130 MPH. ALFA ROMEO'S SPOKESPERSON STATED THAT THE TIRE ON THE CAR CAME FROM ITALY WITH THESE TIRES, SO ALFA ROMEO WANTS ME TO CALL THE DEALERS AND WAIT AND SEE WHAT THEY SAY. I AM AFRAID SOMEONE COULD GET HURT OR KILLED FROM A TIRE BLOWOUT. THE TIRES ARE CONTINENTAL CROSS SECTION LX SPORT RATING 'H,' AND THE TOP SPEED OF THIS MAKER'S TIRE IS 130 MPH; HOWEVER, THIS MOTORCAR CAN AND HAS REACHED 144 MPH.

4/22/2021

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

1 Report4% of total

Previewing the first 1 complaint summaries.

The contact owns a 2020 Alfa Romeo Stelvio. The contact stated while driving at various speeds, the vehicle sputtered, lost motive power, and stalled. The contact stated that after coasting to the side of the roadway, the vehicle was restarted. The contact stated that after restarting the vehicle, the START/STOP light was displayed on the instrument panel. The contact stated that the vehicle was towed to the dealer and was diagnosed and determined that a tune-up was needed. The dealer did not complete a tune-up. The vehicle was then towed to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed and determined that engine oil had mixed with coolant and then leaked into the engine. The contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and confirmed that there was no recall on the VIN. The contact was referred to the NHTSA Hotline to file a complaint. The approximate failure mileage was 60,000. The VIN was not available.

1/11/2024

AIR BAGS

1 Report4% of total

Previewing the first 1 complaint summaries.

I was in an accident that was can be contributed to my lane keeping assistance. Once the car crashed into another vehicle my airbags failed to deploy.

8/11/2024

SEAT BELTS

1 Report4% of total

Previewing the first 1 complaint summaries.

I was in an accident that was can be contributed to my lane keeping assistance. Once the car crashed into another vehicle my airbags failed to deploy.

8/11/2024

STEERING

1 Report4% of total

Previewing the first 1 complaint summaries.

Upon starting the vehicle a number of warning lights illuminated including the battery light. Upon viewing the battery compartment the plastic enclosure surrounding the battery had a few inches of water inside. I do have videos showing the water inside the compartment and also video of water being vacuumed out of the compartment. We did some research and found that this exact same issue sparked a recall in the same model vehicle in 2018. Very dangerous and i hope this is not happening to others, based on our research it is.

8/1/2025

LANE DEPARTURE: WARNING

1 Report4% of total

Previewing the first 1 complaint summaries.

My Alfa Romeo Stelvio 2020 on Oct 29,2025 stop functioning all the ADAS system as well as the sunroof. Because of this a had a small accident with a gate as it did not advised me. I read in a few websites that I am not the only person having this same issue. This is a very serious issue that Alfa Romeo manufacturing should fix immediately before it can become a tragic event.

10/30/2025

LANE DEPARTURE: BLIND SPOT DETECTION

1 Report4% of total

Previewing the first 1 complaint summaries.

My Alfa Romeo Stelvio 2020 on Oct 29,2025 stop functioning all the ADAS system as well as the sunroof. Because of this a had a small accident with a gate as it did not advised me. I read in a few websites that I am not the only person having this same issue. This is a very serious issue that Alfa Romeo manufacturing should fix immediately before it can become a tragic event.

10/30/2025

About This Data

Data and Methodology

MethodologyHow we score →

Scores are derived from NHTSA recalls and owner complaints, normalized by vehicle segment averages.

FAQ

What are the most common owner complaints for the 2020 Alfa Romeo Stelvio?

The most reported complaint category for the 2020 Alfa Romeo Stelvio is ENGINE, with 4 owner reports. That is about 17% of all complaints logged here. Other recurring themes include ENGINE, POWER TRAIN, UNKNOWN OR OTHER.

Are complaints about the 2020 Alfa Romeo Stelvio a serious warning sign?

Potentially. 12 complaint reports fall into higher-attention systems such as brakes, steering, engine, powertrain, fuel, suspension, airbags, or electrical components. That does not prove every vehicle has a defect, but repeated complaints in those systems justify a more careful pre-purchase inspection.

How should buyers use complaint data for the 2020 Alfa Romeo Stelvio?

Use complaints as an early pattern to investigate, not a standalone verdict. Start with the top complaint categories, compare those themes against the recall report and maintenance guide, then inspect service records for evidence that the same problem areas were already addressed. If the same issue appears repeatedly across complaints and recalls, treat it as a real ownership-risk flag.

Are complaints about the 2020 Alfa Romeo Stelvio severe?

12 complaint reports involve higher-attention systems such as brakes, steering, engine, powertrain, fuel, suspension, airbags, or electrical components, which is enough to justify a focused inspection before purchase.

Complaint list entries are sourced from owner-submitted NHTSA ODI records.

Read complaint summaries

Alfa Romeo Stelvio: How should complaint data influence buying decisions?

Use complaint patterns together with recalls and maintenance guidance to estimate ownership risk and inspection priorities.

Carfocal links complaint data directly to recall and maintenance routes for the same model year.

Return to full vehicle report
Complaint entries
24
Top-topic view
5 grouped topics shown
Primary source
NHTSA ODI owner complaint records

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In this guide

  1. 01Overview
  2. 02Common Problems
  3. 03Owner Complaints
  4. 04Data and Methodology

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