Fiat Punto 199
Weaknesses, engine ratings and buying advice
The Fiat Punto Type 199 was sold as the Grande Punto (from 2005) and, after the facelift, as the Punto Evo and simply "Punto" right through to 2018. It's a pleasant supermini with decent room inside that barely changed mechanically over its whole run. Buy one and you're essentially getting cheap everyday usability – but you need to know two or three weak spots, or the bargain turns expensive.
Among the petrols, the 169A4 (1.2 8V, 65 hp) is the frugal, robust base engine – a FIRE unit with a timing belt that's an interference design and must be changed on schedule. The sensible step up is the 955A6 (1.4 MultiAir, 105 hp), which pulls better and runs cool. The 198A4 (1.4 T-Jet, 120 hp) is good fun but, turbo-typical, more maintenance-hungry. The 1.3 MultiJet diesels (188A9, 199A2, 199A3 with 69 to 90 hp) are economical but prone to EGR and DPF coking on short-trip use. The Abarth versions (199A8, 955A8) are hot enthusiast cars with a known cracked-manifold issue.
Recurring themes: the absolute deal-breaker is the electric power steering, which can fail outright and is costly to replace. Add rust around the wheel arches and sills, weak A/C compressors, and broken wiring in the tailgate harness.
Test drive: check the steering at standstill and low speed for sudden heaviness or a warning light, cycle all tailgate functions (light, wiper), confirm cold air from the A/C, probe arches and sills for rust, and check the ignition barrel for sticking.
Market 2026: sound 1.2 and 1.4 cars sit mostly between $3,000 and $5,000, tidy MultiAir examples a bit higher. Abarth models trade at a clear premium as collector cars.
Insider pick: a 1.4 MultiAir with full history and a proven, intact power steering – the best balance of drivability and manageable risk.
180 PS
Punto · Benzin
esseesse — the T-Jet that knows what it is
Fun to Drive!77 PS
1.4L 8V Benzin
7 weaknesses
Good Choice155–180 PS
1.4L T-Jet Turbo Benzin
9 weaknesses
Stay Away!Generations
Engine Overview
The Fiat Punto 199 is available with 8 engine variants — from 60 to 180 hp. 2 variants had engine changes — the model year is crucial.
The first 1.3 MultiJet is a fundamentally solid unit that performed well in long-term tests. Weak points are the injection system at higher mileage and DPF operation. Without DPF and with consistent maintenance, mileages over 250,000 km are documented. As a chain-driven engine with no belt schedule it sounds low-maintenance — but the chain should be inspected by 150,000 km at the latest. Injectors corrode into the aluminium head at high mileage, glow plugs fail from around 100,000 km. Oil changes every 10,000 km (not the manufacturer's 30,000 km) are strongly advisable.
- !! High-pressure pump wear at high mileage from 130,000 km
From approximately 120,000 km, knocking noises from the engine bay can indicate high-pressure pump wear. The diagnosis is frequently confused with injectors.
Symptoms: Metallic knocking or clattering in engine bay, often at warm engine and mid-range rpm - !! Timing chain stretch and breakage from 150,000 km
The 1.3 MultiJet uses a timing chain with no fixed interval. With degraded oil or extended intervals it stretches from around 100,000–150,000 km; breakage with engine damage is possible. Replace tensioner and guides too.
Symptoms: Metallic rattle on cold start fading after warm-up; advanced wear gives persistent rattling, worst case engine stall. - !! Injector sealing problems when engine is warm from 120,000 km
At higher mileages, the ceramic ball sealing elements in the injectors fail, particularly at operating temperature. Warm-start difficulties without cold-start issues are the typical symptom.
Symptoms: Engine starts poorly or not at all when warm, no problem on cold start, sporadic starting issues
+ 4 more engine weaknesses + vehicle weaknesses
The 1.3 MultiJet 75 hp is a fundamentally robust diesel from the Fiat/GM cooperation. In short-trip use it suffers disproportionately from DPF blockage and EGR clogging. Regular motorway driving and consistent maintenance are decisive for longevity. The turbo on this output uses a fixed wastegate rather than VTG — more durable than the 90 hp variant, though the membrane can seize under heavy soot. Inspect the timing chain from 120,000 km; injectors corrode into the aluminium head. Oil change interval should not exceed 15,000 km.
- !! Timing chain stretch and breakage from 150,000 km
The 1.3 MultiJet uses a timing chain with no fixed interval. With degraded oil or extended intervals it stretches from around 100,000–150,000 km; breakage with engine damage is possible. Replace tensioner and guides too.
Symptoms: Metallic rattle on cold start fading after warm-up; advanced wear gives persistent rattling, worst case engine stall. - !! DPF blockage with short-trip use from 100,000 km
The diesel particulate filter does not fully regenerate with predominantly short-trip use. From approximately 100,000 km, ash accumulation can prevent regeneration, leading to power loss and warning lights.
Symptoms: Power loss, engine warning light, increased fuel consumption, limp mode - !! EGR valve carboned up and stuck from 80,000 km
The EGR valve of the 1.3 MultiJet carbons up due to soot deposits and sticks in the open or closed position. An EGR fault appears in the fault memory, reducing power under partial load.
Symptoms: EGR fault in fault memory, delayed power response, occasional power loss under partial load
+ 4 more engine weaknesses + vehicle weaknesses
The 90 hp variant of the 1.3 MultiJet shares all the basic weaknesses with the 75 hp version, but is more often driven hard, stressing the turbo and high-pressure pump. As the only output with a VTG turbo rather than a wastegate, it is more sensitive to oil quality and cool-down after full load. The timing chain is under the greatest thermal stress here — inspect from 120,000 km; injectors corrode into the aluminium head, glow plugs fail. Oil changes every 10,000 km are essential, not optional.
- !! Timing chain stretch and breakage from 150,000 km
The 1.3 MultiJet uses a timing chain with no fixed interval. With degraded oil or extended intervals it stretches from around 100,000–150,000 km; breakage with engine damage is possible. Replace tensioner and guides too.
Symptoms: Metallic rattle on cold start fading after warm-up; advanced wear gives persistent rattling, worst case engine stall. - !! Turbocharger: bent vanes or overboost fault from 110,000 km
The VTG turbocharger of the 90 hp version shows power loss and overboost faults (P0236, P0045) at 120,000 km. The turbo behaves temperature-dependently — no boost when cold, partially better when warm.
Symptoms: Engine warning light, no boost build-up on cold start, overboost faults in memory, power loss - !! EGR valve carboned up from 90,000 km
The EGR valve carbons up after 80,000–120,000 km of operation and is difficult to access on the 1.3 MultiJet. Cleaning is possible but requires removal of several ancillary components.
Symptoms: EGR fault in fault memory, delayed power delivery, power loss under partial load
+ 4 more engine weaknesses + vehicle weaknesses
Solid small diesel from GM/Fiat with a fundamentally long-lived reputation. However, frequent short trips lead to DPF blockage, fuel dilution of the oil and EGR clogging. With consistent maintenance and regular motorway driving, a manageable unit.
- !! High-pressure pump wear and knocking noises from 130,000 km
At higher mileages, knocking noises from the engine bay occur, indicating high-pressure pump wear. Misdiagnosis (confusion with injectors) is common.
Symptoms: Knocking/clattering in engine bay from approximately 2,000 rpm especially when engine is warm, power loss - !! Turbocharger wear with neglected maintenance from 150,000 km
With long oil change intervals or incorrect oil specification, the turbo bearings wear prematurely. Whistling noises and blue exhaust fumes are typical early warning signs.
Symptoms: Whistling or hissing noises from the turbo area, blue smoke, increased oil consumption - !! Timing chain stretch and failure from 150,000 km
The single-row roller chain elongates noticeably under wear. Documented failures between 90,000 and 211,000 km with total engine loss. Cold-start rattle is the key warning sign. Inspect tensioner and guides from 100,000 km.
Symptoms: Metallic rattle on cold start from the timing chain cover, especially the first seconds; at advanced stages also at operating temperature.
+ 6 more engine weaknesses + vehicle weaknesses
The 1.3 MultiJet II at 84 hp is internally identical in construction to the 95-hp variant — timing chain (no belt), same chain-stretch and tensioner issues from around 80,000–100,000 km when maintenance is neglected. The EGR valve and DPF are the classic daily-use weak points: short-trip driving carbons up the EGR, city use prevents full DPF regeneration. Injector drift is common after higher mileages. The lower power output typically corresponds to more modest use patterns, which is easier on the turbocharger and thermal loading. Pre-purchase check: listen on cold start for rattling, scan for EGR and DPF fault codes, check live fuel quantity correction values per cylinder.
- !! Timing chain elongation / chain rattle from 100,000 km
The 1.3 MultiJet uses a timing chain, not a belt — but it elongates from 80,000–100,000 km when oil changes are skipped. Cold-start rattling is the first warning sign. A full chain kit plus water pump are replaced together.
Symptoms: Metallic rattling immediately after cold start (disappears when warm); with severe elongation, camshaft position fault codes, stumbling. - !! Glow plugs seized — breakage risk from 100,000 km
The 1.3 MultiJet glow plugs corrode in the cylinder head with age. During removal attempts they snap off, requiring thread inserts or head replacement (up to €1,800). Prevention: replace every 60,000 km while still removable.
Symptoms: Poor cold starts, prolonged pre-glow without success, strong diesel smell on startup. - !! High-pressure fuel pump failure from 130,000 km
The 1.3 MultiJet common-rail high-pressure pump can fail to maintain rail pressure at higher mileage. The characteristic symptom is clatter at operating temperature around 2,000 rpm. Repair costs approach €1,000.
Symptoms: Clatter in the engine bay around 2,000 rpm when warm, rail-pressure fault codes, power loss, difficult cold start.
+ 4 more engine weaknesses + vehicle weaknesses
The 130 hp variant of the 1.9 MultiJet 8V is the most powerful tune in this common-rail generation and delivers noticeably more torque than the earlier JTD units. With MultiJet technology come a DPF and refined multiple-injection strategies — the filter regenerates via post-injection, which dilutes engine oil during frequent short trips and therefore requires shortened oil change intervals. The EGR valve remains the familiar weak point: carbon deposits from approximately 80,000 km cause partial-load roughness and an engine warning light. The turbocharger is more heavily loaded at this power level; oil quality and timely changes are critical for bearing longevity. Injectors can develop leaks or cold-start clatter at high mileage. Timing belt rhythm: 120,000 km or 5 years.
- !! Turbo damage from oil supply deficiency from 50,000 km
The Garrett turbocharger in the 1.9L MultiJet 130 hp loses lubrication supply due to soot particles in the oil. Damage has been documented from as early as 50,000 km.
Symptoms: Whistling noise, significantly increased oil consumption, power loss - !! Swirl flaps break in intake manifold from 80,000 km
The plastic swirl flaps in the 16V intake manifold wear and the linkage detaches from the actuator. Broken flaps can enter the combustion chamber and cause engine damage. Repaired with a blanking kit or a new intake manifold.
Symptoms: Torque hole and rough running below 2,000 rpm, swirl-flap plausibility fault code, rough running, occasional limp mode. - !! Timing belt snap — total failure via valve-piston contact from 160,000 km
The 1.9 MultiJet is an interference engine — a belt snap instantly destroys valves and piston crowns. Fiat specifies 80,000 km or 5 years; many used cars exceed it. Always replace water pump and tensioner.
Symptoms: Sudden engine stall while driving, no restart possible, possible loud metallic crack immediately before failure.
+ 4 more engine weaknesses + vehicle weaknesses
A simple, fundamentally sound naturally aspirated engine with a long production history — low-maintenance and frugal in daily use. Weak points are the ignition coils (misfires), the water pump and, at high mileage, mild oil consumption past the piston rings. It is a non-interference design: a snapped timing belt won't bend valves but will leave the engine dead, so the interval still matters. Throttle body and thermostat occasionally need attention. With regular care, a trouble-free long-distance runner.
- !! Cylinder head gasket failed from 80,000 km
On older FIRE versions (Punto 188), cylinder head gasket failures occurred frequently between 50,000–130,000 km. Typical sign: white, sweet-smelling exhaust smoke due to coolant entering the combustion chamber.
Symptoms: White smoke from exhaust, sweet smell, increasing coolant consumption, engine overheats - !! Water pump leaking / faulty from 100,000 km
The water pump of the 1.2 FIRE is a known weak point and is routinely replaced together with the timing belt. Failures between 80,000 and 120,000 km are documented multiple times in forums.
Symptoms: Coolant loss, tendency to overheat, coolant level drops without visible cause - !! Ignition coil failure with misfires from 90,000 km
Faulty ignition coils cause misfires (codes P0351/P0352), manifesting as juddering and the engine warning light. Typical for the FIRE engine, especially when the ECU can no longer control one coil and two cylinders drop out.
Symptoms: Juddering and engine oscillation at operating temperature, engine warning light flashing, rough idle
+ 5 more engine weaknesses + vehicle weaknesses
Larger FIRE variant with 77 hp, shares most characteristics and weaknesses with the 1.2. Robust in character, but needs higher revs for decent power delivery. Cold start and temperature issues have been documented repeatedly. Overall reliable with consistent maintenance.
- !! Ignition coil and ECU failure from 90,000 km
Faulty ignition coils are also a known issue on the 1.4 FIRE. In severe cases, a coil failure can affect the ECU. Fault codes P0351/P0352 typically occur at operating temperature.
Symptoms: Juddering at operating temperature, engine warning light, occasional power loss, rough idle - !! Water pump leaking from 90,000 km
As with the 1.2 FIRE, the water pump of the 1.4 FIRE is considered a wear item that should be replaced at the latest during the timing belt service. Workshops report frequent leaks from 80,000 km.
Symptoms: Coolant loss, temperature rise, coolant level drops without visible leak - !! Fuel pump with pressure loss from 100,000 km
On the Grande Punto with 1.4 FIRE, fuel pumps have been documented that could no longer maintain operating pressure of 3 bar. Result: power loss, rough running and engine warning light.
Symptoms: Significant power loss, engine won't pull, engine warning light, juddering under load
+ 4 more engine weaknesses + vehicle weaknesses
The 955A6 brings MultiAir variable valve timing to the Punto Evo — technologically ambitious, improving drivability and economy but demanding maintenance discipline. The critical subject is oil: MultiAir hydraulics are sensitive to old or incorrect oil — use only ACEA C2/C3, interval 15,000 km or 1 year. Contrary to common belief, the 1.4 MultiAir is a port-injection engine, so NO intake-valve coking. The dry timing belt is due every 120,000 km (6 years), always with the water pump. Ignition coils last to 80,000–100,000 km; on misfires check plug wells for moisture and oil first. Maintained, the engine runs well to 180,000 km.
- !! MultiAir unit failed from 80,000 km
The hydraulic MultiAir valve timing unit fails with incorrect oil specification or extended oil change intervals. Repair costs are 1,500–1,700 €. Many workshops use the wrong 5W-40 oil.
Symptoms: Engine warning light, Start/Stop and drive mode selection fail, stuttering on motorway, limp mode - !! Turbocharger failure from 60,000 km
The turbocharger on the 1.4 MultiAir fails prematurely, occasionally around 50,000 km. Combined MultiAir unit and turbo repair costs can exceed 5,000 €.
Symptoms: Power drop, smoke from engine bay, boost fault code, engine oil consumption - !! Recall: rear seat latch
Vehicles from 2015–2018 were recalled for a possible rear seat latch malfunction. In a collision the seats could fail to hold securely.
Symptoms: Affected vehicles may exhibit seat latch failure in a rear-end collision
+ 4 more engine weaknesses + vehicle weaknesses
The 955A8 pairs MultiAir variable valve timing with turbocharging for the Punto Evo Abarth — 163 to 180 hp from 1.4 litres, demanding careful maintenance. Oil is everything: MultiAir hydraulics tolerate neither old nor incorrect oil (ACEA C3 only, max 10,000 km in sport use). The timing belt is a standard dry belt (OEM kit 71771575), NOT an oil-bath type — replace every 4 years, don't wait for 120,000 km. Exhaust manifolds crack frequently between 30,000 and 40,000 km; uprated esseesse parts are the better choice. Check the bypass valve under high boost. Maintained properly, a sharp engine with a realistic 150,000–170,000 km lifespan.
- !! MultiAir unit drains down after storage
The MultiAir 955A8 has no mechanical inlet camshaft — valve timing is controlled hydraulically via engine oil. After standstill periods of 4–8 weeks the system can drain down and cause problems on start-up.
Symptoms: Difficult cold start after storage, rough running on first start, engine warning light - !! Timing belt — dry belt, interference engine from 100,000 km
The 1.4 MultiAir Turbo uses a normal DRY timing belt (OEM kit 71771575), NOT a wet belt. As an interference engine a break causes immediate damage. Interval 120,000 km / 6 years; with tuning and sport use conservatively every 4 years. Replace the water pump.
Symptoms: No warning on sudden break; wear gives misfires and rough running. - !! Turbo damage from incorrect oil from 80,000 km
The turbocharger of the 955A8 strictly requires 5W40 ACEA C3 (FIAT 9.55535-S1). Additives or incorrect viscosities cause serious damage to turbo bearings and the MultiAir hydraulics.
Symptoms: Whistling turbo, increased oil consumption, MultiAir fault codes
+ 4 more engine weaknesses + vehicle weaknesses
The 1.4-litre T-Jet in sport tune is a spirited turbocharged engine with genuine character that can prove durable with consistent maintenance — but it has specific weaknesses. The IHI turbocharger is fundamentally robust, but cannot tolerate cold-start abuse or being shut down immediately after hard driving: coked oil in the bearing area is the most common cause of failure. Always allow a few minutes of low-load cool-down after spirited use. The more critical issue is the exhaust manifold: the standard manifold develops cracks as early as 30,000–40,000 km, identifiable by a whistling noise in the mid-rev range and reduced boost. The permanent fix is the reinforced manifold from the top version. The compressor wheel gradually develops bearing play before total failure — removing the intake pipe and checking the wheel gives early warning. The bottom end is considered robust provided oil-change intervals are respected.
- !! Timing belt failure — engine damage from 60,000 km
The T-Jet 199A8 has a timing belt. A failure means total engine loss. The replacement interval of 60,000 km/6 years is mandatory; replace the water pump at the same time.
Symptoms: Sudden engine stop, unable to start, possible cracking noises just before failure - !! Water pump leaking from 65,000 km
The water pump of the T-Jet often fails at the same time as the timing belt. Unnoticed coolant loss can lead to overheating.
Symptoms: Coolant level drops, damp area at engine block, temperature gauge rises - !! Exhaust manifold crack from 35,000 km
The cast-iron manifold develops hairline cracks from ~35,000 km due to thermal cycling — even in stock tune. Air leakage corrupts the lambda signal and costs boost. The reinforced esseesse manifold is the permanent fix.
Symptoms: Whistling or hissing at 2,000–3,000 RPM, especially on cold starts; boost gauge no longer reaching maximum; faint exhaust smell in the engine bay.
+ 6 more engine weaknesses + vehicle weaknesses
The 1.4 T-Jet is Fiat's robust entry into turbocharging. As an interference design, strictly observed belt intervals (120,000 km / 5 years) are non-negotiable — a snapped belt means total engine loss. The cast-iron exhaust manifold cracks frequently between 30,000 and 50,000 km; not a warranty item but a well-known T-Jet pattern that announces itself with a metallic tick after cold starts. Ignition coils typically last to 60,000–100,000 km; on the first misfire check the crankshaft sensor too. The diverter valve can leak and prevent full boost. Keep the belt and manifold in mind and this engine comfortably reaches 200,000 km.
- !! Turbocharger failure (wastegate / bearings) from 120,000 km
The turbocharger of the 1.4 T-Jet (120/150 hp) is a known weak point. Typical failures: defective wastegate with power loss, bearing failure due to oil starvation. Repair €400–1,500.
Symptoms: Severe power loss at high revs, whistling noises, smoke discharge, engine goes into limp mode - !! Water pump leaking with secondary damage from 100,000 km
The water pump of the T-Jet can leak and drip coolant onto the crankshaft sensor (mounted close to the water pump), causing sensor failures and misfires.
Symptoms: Coolant loss, followed by misfires from wet crankshaft sensor, engine warning light - !! Timing belt — interference engine, failure = total loss from 120,000 km
The 1.4 T-Jet is an interference engine. If the belt breaks or skips, pistons and valves collide — irreparable damage. Interval: 120,000 km or 5 years. Always replace the water pump.
Symptoms: Sudden engine failure on break; misfires if the belt skips.
+ 4 more engine weaknesses + vehicle weaknesses
Vehicle Weaknesses
| Weakness | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Engine Control Unit and Instrument Lighting On the Fiat Punto (199), dashboard lighting and interior lighting frequently fail due to loose connectors. Engine control unit faults especially on models up to 2007. Symptoms: Dashboard lighting flickers or goes out, warning lights illuminate without cause, engine fails to start after electrical fault from 80,000 km | Medium | |
| Tailgate wiring harness cable break The wiring harness to the tailgate fractures at the rubber grommet due to continuous flexing. Affects rear wiper, tailgate lock and licence plate lighting. Repair kits with silicone cables (€50–75) fix it permanently. Symptoms: Rear wiper works intermittently or not at all, tailgate won't open via remote, tailgate door warning light. from 90,000 km | Low | |
| Ignition lock cylinder seizure The ignition lock cylinder seizes due to spring failure or material fatigue. The key can no longer be turned or removed, making the vehicle inoperable. Repair often requires replacing all door locks and keys too. Symptoms: Key cannot be turned or removed, vehicle will not start, steering lock engages. from 100,000 km | Medium |
Test Reports
TÜV Report 2024
Punto shows clear weaknesses at MOT. Suspension, rust and brakes are the main points of criticism.
2023-11ADAC Breakdown Statistics 2024
Punto shows above-average breakdown frequency. Electrical problems and starting problems are typical.
2024-04Alternatives
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Known Problems and Issues +
A total of 118 weaknesses have been documented for the Fiat Punto 199 (2005–2018) — 105 engine-related and 13 vehicle-related. One problem engine: 199A8-Abarth (1.4L T-Jet Turbo). Typical issues affect Electronics, Suspension, Rust, Brakes. Considered reliable: 350A1 (1.4L 8V).
Punto (188A9, 2003–2007) — Be Careful: High-pressure pump wear at high mileage, Timing chain stretch and breakage, Injector sealing problems when engine is warm. Power: 69 PS.
Punto (199A2, 2005–2018) — Be Careful: Timing chain stretch and breakage, DPF blockage with short-trip use, EGR valve carboned up and stuck. Power: 69–80 PS.
Punto (199A3, 2005–2018) — Be Careful: Timing chain stretch and breakage, Turbocharger: bent vanes or overboost fault, EGR valve carboned up. Power: 84–95 PS.
Punto (199A5, 2005–2014) — Be Careful: Turbo damage from oil supply deficiency, Swirl flaps break in intake manifold, Timing belt snap — total failure via valve-piston contact. Power: 130 PS.
Punto (199B1, 2010–2018) — Be Careful: High-pressure pump wear and knocking noises, Turbocharger wear with neglected maintenance, Timing chain stretch and failure. Power: 80–90 PS.
Punto (199B4, 2012–2018) — Be Careful: Timing chain elongation / chain rattle, Glow plugs seized — breakage risk, High-pressure fuel pump failure. Power: 80–90 PS.
Punto (188A5, 1999–2007) — Be Careful: Cylinder head gasket — systemic weak point, Timing belt — interference engine with tensioner issues, Ignition coils — heat-related wear. Power: 80–86 PS.
Punto (169A4, 2003–2007) — Be Careful: Cylinder head gasket failed, Water pump leaking / faulty, Ignition coil failure with misfires. Power: 60 PS.
Punto (843A1, 2003–2007) — Be Careful: Cylinder head gasket leaking, Water pump as timing belt tensioner — coolant loss, Timing belt — interference engine with zero tolerance. Power: 95 PS.
Punto (169A4, 2005–2018) — Be Careful: Cylinder head gasket failed, Water pump leaking / faulty, Ignition coil failure with misfires. Power: 60–69 PS.
Punto (199A8-Abarth, 2007–2018) — Stay Away!: Timing belt failure — engine damage, Water pump leaking, Exhaust manifold crack. Power: 155 PS.
Punto (199A8-Abarth, 2007–2014) — Stay Away!: Timing belt failure — engine damage, Water pump leaking, Exhaust manifold crack. Power: 180 PS.
Punto (198A4, 2009–2012) — Be Careful: Turbocharger failure (wastegate / bearings), Water pump leaking with secondary damage, Timing belt — interference engine, failure = total loss. Power: 120 PS.
Punto (955A6, 2010–2018) — Be Careful: MultiAir unit failed, Turbocharger failure, Recall: rear seat latch. Power: 105 PS.
Punto (955A8-Abarth, 2010–2018) — Be Careful: MultiAir unit drains down after storage, Timing belt — dry belt, interference engine, Turbo damage from incorrect oil. Power: 163 PS.
Punto (955A8-Abarth, 2010–2018) — Be Careful: MultiAir unit drains down after storage, Timing belt — dry belt, interference engine, Turbo damage from incorrect oil. Power: 180 PS.
What to watch out for with the Fiat Punto? See the detailed listing of all engine and vehicle weaknesses in the sections above.
Frequently Asked Questions
What problems and weaknesses does the Fiat Punto 199 have? +
What should I look for when buying a used Fiat Punto 199? +
Which engine is recommended? +
Which Fiat Punto 199 engine is the most reliable? +
Which Fiat Punto 199 engine is the most fun? +
Is the Fiat Punto 199 worth buying used? +
What horsepower variants are available for the Fiat Punto 199? +
Last updated: February 2026 · All information without guarantee