Common Issues in Tata Altroz: Causes and Solutions

The Tata Altroz is known for its premium styling, spacious cabin, and strong five-star safety ratings. However, like any other car, a few Tata Altroz owners have encountered recurring problems that affect their ownership experience. This blog highlights the most reported issues with the Tata Altroz, their potential causes, and how to address them effectively.

Common Issues Faced by Tata Altroz Owners

The common problems with the Tata Altroz include engine noise, belt issues, boot strut failure, infotainment glitches, AC malfunction, oil sump gasket leakage, and more.

Tata Altroz Engine Noise and Belt Issues

Several Tata Altroz owners have reported unusual engine noise that eventually led to a major diagnosis. There are persistent issues with the belt tensioner or pulleys.

Probable Cause

• Timing belt or auxiliary belt wear

• A faulty belt tensioner or pulley

   

How to Identify the Issue

• Rattling or squealing noise from the engine bay

• Noise increases with acceleration or engine load

   

Professional Assistance

• Replace worn belts and tensioners

• If unresolved, request a complete engine inspection

   

Infotainment Problems in Tata Altroz

Tata Altroz features an infotainment system, which can be concerning for the owners because they have experienced frequent freezing or unresponsiveness.

Probable Cause

• Software glitches in the infotainment firmware

• Faulty internal memory or hardware issues

   

How to Identify the Issue

• Screen freezing mid-operation

• Delays in response to touch or inputs

   

DIY Solutions

• Reset the infotainment system

   

Professional Assistance

• Update the infotainment system software at an authorised service centre

• Replace the infotainment unit, especially if still under warranty, if the issue persists

   

AC Malfunction and Incorrect Temperature Output

A few Tata Altroz owners raised concerns regarding malfunctioning AC, where the air stays excessively cold regardless of the temperature setting.

Probable Cause

• A faulty temperature sensor or actuator

• Software error in the HVAC control module

   

How to Identify the Issue

• The AC blows cold air even at higher temperature settings

• Blower speed changes, but temperature doesn’t adjust

   

Professional Assistance

• Recalibrate the HVAC system through diagnostic tools

• Replace malfunctioning sensors or actuators if required

   

Tata Altroz Oil Sump Gasket Leakage

Some Tata Altroz owners have reported leakage from the oil sump area. This issue was often detected during scheduled services.

Probable Cause

• Improper gasket fitment or low-quality sealing

   

How to Identify the Issue

• Oil patches under the car

• Low engine oil level warning

   

Professional Assistance

• Replace the oil sump gasket 

• Ensure the area is cleaned and properly resealed

   

Rusting in the Engine Bay and Body Panels

Multiple Tata Altroz owners have noted rust formation in the engine bay and around body panel edges.

Probable Cause

• Damage caused by collisions or tools, leading to paint removal

• Use of hard water for washing

   

How to Identify the Issue

• Paint bubbling or peeling

• Visible rust around engine bolts and metal components

   

DIY Solutions

• Wash the car only with soft water

   

Professional Assistance

• Report rusting early for possible warranty claims

• Apply anti-rust coating or touch-up paint

   

Low Pickup and Engine Heaviness

Owners of the diesel variant of the Tata Altroz have complained that the engine feels sluggish on flat roads and during uphill driving.

Probable Cause

• Under-tuned engine or clogged air filters
• ECU not calibrated properly

• Could be a DPF issue

   

How to Identify the Issue

• Slow throttle response
• Increased fuel consumption

• Notable lack of power

   

Professional Assistance

• Check the air filter and fuel injector health
• Request an ECU remap or software update

• Perform a complete car scan

   

Hydraulic Boot Strut Failure

In rare cases, the Altroz’s hydraulic strut of the boot has failed unexpectedly, posing a safety hazard to the owners.

Probable Cause

• Improper installation of the hydraulic arms

   

How to Identify the Issue

• The boot door doesn’t stay up or slam shut

   

Professional Assistance

• Replace the faulty strut immediately
• Check boot alignment during service

• Check for replacement under warranty

   

Fit and Finish Problems

Despite being a premium hatchback car, the Altroz has several interior trim gaps, panel misalignments, and rattling noise from the A-pillar or centre console that have been commonly reported.

Probable Cause

• Caused by poor Quality Control during assembly

• Plastic trims are loosening over time

   

How to Identify the Issue

• Visible gaps around the dashboard or gear lever

• Rattling sounds from the A-pillar or the doors

   

DIY Solutions

• Use foam padding or rubber liners to reduce noise

   

Professional Assistance

• Have the service centre realign panels and tighten loose fittings

   

Fog Lamp Malfunction

The fog lamps in certain models of the Tata Altroz face an issue where the switch indicates it’s on, but the lamps don’t light up.

Probable Cause

• Switch or relay failure

• Loose wiring connection

   

How to Identify the Issue

• Fog lamp indicator lights up, but lamps remain off

   

Professional Assistance

• Replace the faulty switch
• Inspect fog lamps and replace if necessary

• Check electrical connections and relays

   

Paint Quality and Factory Finish Defects

The factory paint jobs on some Tata Altroz cars have had imperfections, such as dust particles trapped under the paint or uneven layering.

Probable Cause

• Dust contamination during painting

• Inadequate quality checks

   

How to Identify the Issue

• Paint appears bumpy or uneven on close inspection

   

Professional Assistance

• Raise a complaint with the dealership immediately

• Request a repaint or polishing, especially if your car is still under warranty

   

Preventive Maintenance Tips for Tata Altroz Owners

• Follow Tata’s service schedule to keep Altroz in the best functioning order
• Perform regular ECU scans to detect hidden engine-related issues
• Wash the car using soft water and dry promptly to avoid rust
• Inspect belts and gaskets during each service
• Keep infotainment software updated
• Inspect the AC system regularly to prevent issues in the long run

• Report rattles and fitment issues early for warranty coverage

   

Conclusion

The Tata Altroz offers exceptional safety and premium design, but it’s essential to be aware of these common ownership concerns. Prompt attention to early signs, regular maintenance, and engaging with a responsive service centre can significantly improve your driving experience. Always insist on documentation for any repairs or replacements done under warranty. For persistent problems, always consult an authorised Tata service centre or avail professional inspection services from CARS24 to gain insights into the car’s condition.