Alfa 159 Trans Warning: Grinding, Slipping & Error Codes

Had similar automatic transmission issues with my Alfa 156 2.4 JTD from 2003. The symptoms match closely with what turned out to be a converter fault in my case. The grinding noise during shifts and slipping between gears strongly indicates torque converter problems, specifically the lock-up clutch failure you mentioned. When my transmission started acting up, it began with intermittent rough shifting, then progressed to consistent grinding and slipping. The automatic gearbox needed complete torque converter replacement since the lock-up clutch was severely worn. The transmission fluid was contaminated with metal particles from the deteriorated converter components, which required a full system flush. This was a serious repair job requiring specialized transmission tools and expertise. The entire unit had to be removed to access the torque converter. The engine surge and erratic shifting stopped completely after repair. Worth noting that driving with these symptoms risks causing additional damage to the transmission internals. Getting it properly diagnosed and repaired soon is crucial to prevent more extensive automatic gearbox damage.

Thanks for sharing that experience with the 156. It matches what I went through with my 159 last winter. The lock-up clutch failure symptoms were almost identical. Had an engine surge issue too that kept getting worse until I got it fixed. Did you track what the final cost was for your converter failure repair? My transmission repair bill was significant, but wondering how it compares. Also curious if youve had any other transmission problems since getting it fixed?

Thanks for asking about the costs. The automatic transmission torque converter repair on my Alfa worked out perfectly since getting it fixed. The final bill came to 2120 Euro which covered the complete overhaul including labor and parts. The transmission repair shop did a thorough job resolving the lock-up clutch defect. Once they replaced the faulty torque converter, all the issues cleared up, no more engine surge, rough shifting, or warning lights. The automatic gearbox has been shifting smoothly for over a year now. Have not experienced any converter fault symptoms or transmission problems since the repair. The investment was worth it considering how well the gearbox performs now. Much better than risking more extensive damage by continuing to drive with a failing torque converter.

Thanks everyone for the helpful advice. Following up on what happened with my 159, I finally got the transmission fixed at a specialist shop last week. The mechanic confirmed it was indeed the torque converter causing all those problems. The automatic transmission repair cost me 2350 Euro but they did a complete job. They found metal debris in the fluid from the failed lock-up clutch and replaced the whole converter unit. The transmission warning lights disappeared right after the repair. The gearbox now shifts perfectly smooth again with no grinding or slipping between gears. Really glad I got it sorted before the converter fault caused more damage to the transmission internals. Worth every cent to have it working properly again. Feel much more confident driving it now that the automatic gearbox is fixed properly. No more worrying about getting stranded somewhere due to transmission failure. Thanks again for helping point me in the right direction with the diagnosis.