I'm on the lookout for a manual 159 Q4. Just seeking some guidance on what to watch out for in terms of pitfalls. I've done some reading of some buyers guide out of the UK. The most common issues I read about are the cam chain, which is usually the cause of dash board Christmas tree of error warnings. Also to keep an eye on corrosion on the sub-frame.
Corrosion on the subframe wont be an issue here in OZ as we don't salt the roads.
Some issues to watch for are -
Worn front wishbones
Noisy bearing in gearbox
Worn/torn Center Driveshaft bearing mounts.
I would suggest BEFORE buying any Alfa to get it inspected by a Local Alfa specialist, not after you buy it, like so many unfortunately do.
Have sent you a PM.
Baz