An Alfa Romeo Tonale owner in Vancouver is dealing with unexpected rust just a year after purchasing the compact SUV, only to be told by the dealership that such issues are “100% normal” and not covered under warranty. The incident has sparked concerns among Tonale drivers, highlighting potential design flaws and raising questions about the brand’s commitment to quality.
Background:
The problem came to light when a Reddit user shared photos of paint bubbling and flaking off the inside of their Tonale’s tailgate, near the backup camera. The exposed metal is showing early signs of corrosion—a disheartening development for a vehicle that should still be under warranty. The owner traced the issue to a design oversight in the tailgate drainage channel: water can accumulate to a depth of about a quarter inch before it begins draining, meaning it often sits inside the panel. This trapped moisture appears to be accelerating the rusting process.
Dealer’s Response:
When the owner reported the issue to their local dealership, the response was less than reassuring. According to the Reddit post, the dealer claimed that “they’re all like that” and refused to repair the problem under warranty. Instead, they showed photos of other Tonales with similar bubbling paint, implying that the corrosion was expected and unavoidable.
Alfa Romeo’s Rust Warranty:
Alfa Romeo’s corrosion warranty, as outlined in the owner’s manual, only covers rust that has completely penetrated a metal panel from the inside out. Superficial surface rust, such as paint bubbling, does not qualify for repair unless it leads to a full perforation, which could take years. In this case, the tailgate panel is not yet perforated, leaving the owner with no recourse under the warranty’s terms.
Why This Matters:
Rust is a serious concern for vehicle owners, especially when it appears so soon. Not only can it compromise the integrity of the bodywork, but it can also affect resale value and the overall lifespan of the vehicle. For a brand that markets itself on Italian design and premium craftsmanship, the suggestion that early rust is “normal” may strike potential buyers as unacceptable.
Owner’s Options:
Experts suggest the frustrated Tonale owner could pursue two main options:
- Legal Action: They could consider taking the matter to court, potentially organizing a class action lawsuit with other affected Tonale owners.
- DIY Repair: Alternatively, they could drill additional drainage holes in the tailgate to prevent water from pooling, then apply rust treatment and repaint the affected area at their own expense.
Stellantis’ Silence:
So far, Stellantis—the parent company of Alfa Romeo—has not issued an official statement regarding the reports of early rust in the Tonale. Requests for comment from Canadian media outlets have gone unanswered, leaving owners to wonder whether the company intends to address the design flaw or offer any assistance.
Conclusion:
The early rusting of Alfa Romeo’s Tonale highlights the importance of robust design and quality control, especially for new models aiming to compete in the crowded SUV market. As more owners come forward with similar complaints, pressure may mount on Alfa Romeo and Stellantis to provide a solution. In the meantime, affected owners are left to decide whether to accept the dealer’s explanation, pursue repairs themselves, or fight for a more permanent resolution.
