>> I have heard the "diesel" engine sound at start-up, on occasion. But it
>> quietens out fairly quickly.
>
> In which case it would seem the sensible time to replace it as you have
> the clear symptoms of a variator on its way out. I guess Alfa improved the
> reliability of variators after 2000 but they can still fail like anything
> else.
>
> What mileage has it done?
>

About 34,000. It was due a major service and the cam belt is getting
replaced so I suppose it must be done..It's just the cost that's getting me
down !