Fiat Punto
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.
Dutiful Petrol without Bite
75 hp just barely adequate in the city, tight on the motorway. No character, no feedback — uncompromising economy without any enthusiasm.
Engine Weaknesses 4
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
The variable turbine geometry (VTG) of the 1.3 MultiJet tends to develop deformed vanes due to excessive axial shaft play. Particularly affected are vehicles that were frequently driven at high revs when cold.
Symptoms: Overboost fault codes (P0236, P0045), power loss with engine warning light, limp mode
The high-pressure pump of the 1.3 MultiJet produces a noticeable clattering from the engine bay when worn. Poor fuel quality or fuel contamination significantly accelerates wear.
Symptoms: Metallic clattering from engine bay when warm, irregular idle, starting problems
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
Vehicle Weaknesses 10
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.
Wheel arches and sills on the Fiat Punto (199) rust above-average. At MOT, vehicles from the fourth inspection onwards disproportionately often have serious defects.
The electric power steering on the Fiat Punto (199) frequently fails at higher mileage, making the steering noticeably heavier. Repair costs €500–800.
AC compressors on the Fiat Punto (199) fail more frequently than average at higher mileage. Replacement compressor costs €400–700 plus fitting and recharging.
Strut mounts and drop links on the front axle of the Fiat Punto (199) wear early and regularly cause defects at MOT.
Brake discs on the Fiat Punto (199) warp and lead to reduced braking performance. Handbrake also tends to reduced effectiveness.
Gear linkage bushes on the Fiat Punto (199) wear and cause stiff, imprecise shifting. Fifth gear can lock on the motorway.
Age-related seals on engine and gearbox of the Fiat Punto (199) start to seep oil, requiring regular top-ups.
Exhaust system of the Fiat Punto (199) corrodes early, particularly on short-trip drivers. MOT failures for inadequate emissions typical from 100,000 km.
Gas struts on the tailgate lose force and no longer hold the tailgate open. Door locks jam particularly in cold weather.