2022-2024 Alfa Romeo Tonale Lifter Pin Alignment TSB

Important Clarification for Owners and Technicians

Stellantis has issued a manufacturer communication (NHTSA ID 10244356) to address a common observation regarding Hydraulic Roller Deactivating Lifters, specifically those used in Multi-Displacement System (MDS) engines. This technical service bulletin (TSB) clarifies that a condition where the disconnecting pin on these lifters is not perfectly lined up is considered normal and does not indicate a defect.

This clarification is crucial for owners of affected vehicles, including the 2022-2024 Alfa Romeo Tonale. The 2024 Alfa Romeo Tonale manufacturer_communication aims to prevent unnecessary diagnosis and replacement of these components, ensuring that service resources are focused on actual issues.

What Owners Should Know

The manufacturer explicitly states: "Please do not replace MDS lifters because the disconnecting pin is not lined up, this is normal and not a defect." This directive is intended for service technicians but directly impacts vehicle owners by preventing potentially costly and unneeded repairs. If you or your technician observe this condition, rest assured that it is within normal operating parameters for the MDS lifters.

Component in Question: Hydraulic Roller Deactivating Lifter

Hydraulic Roller Deactivating Lifters are key components in engines equipped with Multi-Displacement System (MDS) technology. MDS allows the engine to deactivate a portion of its cylinders under light load conditions, improving fuel efficiency. The disconnecting pin is an integral part of this deactivation mechanism. The communication clarifies that its visual alignment does not always reflect its functional integrity.

This 2024 Alfa Romeo Tonale manufacturer_communication applies to a broad range of Stellantis vehicles from model years 2022 through 2024. Understanding this normal characteristic of the MDS lifters can help avoid misdiagnosis.

Why This Matters

Misinformation or misinterpretation of component appearance can lead to incorrect repairs, wasted time, and unnecessary expenses. By issuing this TSB, Stellantis is providing clear guidance to its service network, ensuring that vehicles are repaired correctly and efficiently. For owners, this means avoiding situations where a perfectly functional part might be replaced due to a misunderstanding of its normal state.

Manufacturer's Stance

Stellantis confirms that the observed misalignment of the disconnecting pin on MDS lifters does not impair their function or indicate a fault. This is a design characteristic and not a manufacturing defect. Therefore, no action is required if this condition is noted during inspection or service.

Source: NHTSA ID: 10244356