Mine makes a sort of scraping noise hot or cold for about a second (156 V6
too).

It had its 24k service today and I asked them to look at it. Was told it was
normal and 156s starters have a bit of follow through ??

I got them to copy the works order which included my request for them to
check it in case something bad happens. I would definitely want this done
under warranty as I believe a starter motor replacement is an engine out
job.

I had a surprising number of suspension bushes changed for 24k too - all
under warranty though.

Plus I wore out my rear brakes before the fronts which surprised me. Are
they softer pads at the back anyone know?

Cheers
Tony

I asked the Alfa dealer to quote for this problem on my 156 V6. The starter
motor is pretty cheap. But the bad news is that the starter motor is allegedly
very difficult to get at. The dealer reckoned it's a 7 hour job. I was
horrified and have left it as it is. I think a good plan might be to leave it
until you have a cambelt service. I was told this involves taking the engine
out on the V6, so would hopefully make the starter motor a lot more accessible.
I love my Alfa, but I have to say it's a silly design if you can't remove a
starter motor. :-)

Phil 156 V6