Fiat Punto
De-tuned Abarth T-Jet on the Punto platform — solid with maintained service history, but timing belt and turbo require attention.
Country Road Sportster
9/10 stars at Motor1 — the Grande Punto Abarth handles corners beautifully. More body than the 500, but more stable at higher speeds.
Engine Weaknesses 4
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
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
The turbocharger of the Punto T-Jet is susceptible to boost pressure fluctuations. Causes are frequently leaking boost hoses, worn bearings or a faulty wastegate diaphragm.
Symptoms: Reduced acceleration, engine goes into limp mode, whistling from engine bay
As with all T-Jet variants, the ignition coils of the 199A8 fail prematurely. The fault often shows after full-load driving or in wet weather.
Symptoms: Misfires, rough running, engine warning light, poor throttle response
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.