Fiat Linea
Solid 1.6 MultiJet diesel with a known EGR weakness and a rare but serious crankshaft defect in the Tipo.
Commuter Diesel
Reliable commuter with acceptable consumption. No character, no fun, but dependable.
Engine Weaknesses 4
Timing belt tensioners and idler pulleys wear out faster than the belt itself. If the timing belt breaks or jumps on this interference engine, total engine damage results.
Symptoms: Loud engine noises, engine fault after timing belt replacement if incorrectly positioned
Fiat Tipo had 1.6 MultiJet engines fitted with undersized crankshafts that lead to oil pressure loss and catastrophic engine failure. Fiat recommends immediate engine shutdown at warning signs.
Symptoms: Flashing engine warning light, oil pressure warning, loud noise at engine failure
The EGR valve carbons up regularly and causes juddering and poor throttle response. The EGR opening is also noticeable under normal operation as a brief power interruption at approximately 2,000 rpm.
Symptoms: Juddering at approximately 2,000 rpm especially in 2nd gear, poor throttle response
Injectors wear out and must be replaced individually or as a set. Each unit must be programmed to the ECU after replacement.
Symptoms: Rough running, poor cold start, increased consumption, engine warning light
Vehicle Weaknesses 8
The underbody protection of the Fiat Linea is of poor quality and detaches early. Without retreatment, suspension components and welds corrode.
The Linea 323 can develop charging problems due to alternator failure. Battery problems and charging system faults from defective alternators are documented.
Rear strut mounts on the Linea 323 need to be replaced regularly. They produce rattling noises and deteriorate driving stability.
Cheap plastics in the Linea 323 interior tend to creak and squeak. Seat backrests squeak, interior trims sit loosely.
Door locks can fail and warning lights illuminate without identifiable faults. Rear light housings collect water. Spare parts have long delivery times.
Creaking or rattling suspension noises indicate worn shock absorbers. Uneven tyre wear due to wheel alignment issues.
Brake pads and discs on the Linea produce squealing and vibrations. Insufficient braking performance due to defective calipers or leaking brake lines is also known.
The paint on the Fiat Linea is very thin and vulnerable to stone chips. Owners report numerous stone chip marks after as little as 10,000 km. Rust quickly forms at chip sites.