Alfa 166 V6 Dead Steering Controls, Common Issue Fix

Had a very similar issue on my Alfa 159 2.2 JTS. With some experience working on these models, I can tell you the symptoms match exactly what I encountered last year. The multifunction steering controls stopped working due to a damaged cable connection in the steering column. The control module was reading errors because of the broken connection between the steering wheel buttons and the main sensor module. After checking multiple potential fixes, I brought it to a workshop. They diagnosed a worn cable in the steering wheel that was causing intermittent connection issues. The total repair cost was 95 Euro, which included replacing the faulty wiring and resetting the control module. What caught my attention is that your steering works fine mechanically, just like mine did. This typically points to an electrical rather than mechanical issue in the steering column assembly. Could you share: Build year of your 166, How long have the controls been unresponsive, Whether the issue appeared gradually or suddenly, If you notice any other electrical glitches This information would help determine if your issue matches the common failure pattern in these models.

Thank you for the detailed explanation. My last service was at 71000 KM, about 3 months ago. The controls stopped working suddenly last week without warning. After reading your response, I tried wiggling the steering wheel while pressing the buttons and noticed an intermittent response, which seems to confirm the loose connection theory. The vehicle diagnostics also show an error related to the control module, matching your description exactly. Given the similar symptoms and multifunction steering behavior, it sounds like I am dealing with the same steering column wiring issue. A 95 Euro repair cost seems quite reasonable compared to what I had feared. Since the car has now reached 73561 KM, it makes sense that wear and tear could cause wiring problems even though everything worked fine at the last service check.

Thanks for the follow-up and those additional details. The intermittent response when moving the steering wheel is a telltale sign of the wiring issue I encountered. This behavior strongly confirms we are dealing with the same connectivity problem. The timing is also typical, these steering control failures often appear suddenly even after a recent service because the wire insulation deteriorates gradually until it finally fails. The sensor issue usually does not show warning signs until the connection completely breaks. In my case, the repair shop also found some light corrosion on the connector pins of the multifunction steering module, which they cleaned during the repair. This might be worth checking in your case too, given the similar mileage and symptoms. Quick heads up based on my experience, make sure they properly secure the new wiring during installation. My first repair needed a follow-up adjustment because the cable bundle was slightly pinched when the steering column was reassembled. The quoted 95 Euro repair cost should still be accurate assuming similar parts and labor rates. Just ensure they include the control module reset in the service, as this is essential to clear the stored error codes after the wiring fix.

Thanks for providing such specific details about your case. The intermittent response when moving the steering wheel definitely matches my experience exactly. My 166 is a 2004 model, and the controls stopped working completely without warning last Thursday. No gradual decline, just sudden failure. The vehicle diagnostics showing control module errors combined with the steering response when wiggling confirms this is likely the same electrical fault you encountered. No other electrical issues present in my case. A 95 Euro repair cost would be a relief, I was worried about potential steering column replacement which would have been much more expensive. Will make sure to mention the connector pin corrosion check you suggested when I take it in. I have noticed the malfunction indicator showing error code P1614 when scanning, which seems consistent with the wiring connectivity issue you described. Will book it in this week and ensure they include the control module reset after fixing the wiring. Really appreciate the detailed insights. This gives me confidence to proceed with the repair knowing it is a known issue with a straightforward fix. I will update once resolved in case it helps others with similar symptoms.