Fiat Punto
The 1.9L MultiJet 96 kW in the Grande Punto 199 is the sportiest Punto diesel and suffers from turbo damage, DPF issues and dual-mass flywheel wear. Short-trip use is particularly damaging.
T-Jet with Real Punch
130 hp from just 1.4 litres with noticeable turbo thrust from 1,750 rpm. In the lightweight Punto that is real fun — the right engine choice for driving pleasure.
Engine Weaknesses 4
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
The dual-mass flywheel of the 1.9L MultiJet 96 kW is a known wear item. Replacement costs at a dealership are around €1,000; aftermarket complete kit for €499–600.
Symptoms: Rattling when starting and switching off, vibrations at idle, gear change judder especially when cold
The EGR valve sticks open due to soot carbon and prevents full power delivery. Known system weakness of the 1.9L JTD series.
Symptoms: Poor throttle response, juddering under full load, power loss from 80,000 km, engine warning light
The particulate filter clogs due to incomplete regeneration in urban driving. EGR failure contributes additional soot load. Limp mode drastically reduces engine power.
Symptoms: DPF warning light, severe power drop, occasional visible soot discharge when accelerating
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.