Fiat Punto
The revised 85 hp variant for the late Punto (2012–2015) is considered slightly more refined than its predecessors, but shares all the basic weaknesses of the 1.3 MultiJet family. Euro 5-compliant DPF equipment makes the vehicle more susceptible to short-trip issues.
Pure Diesel Sensibility
Economical city diesel with decent torque, but no fun engine. Doesn't rev high, sounds rough — good for relaxed commuting, nothing more.
Engine Weaknesses 3
Euro 5 DPF of the late Punto blocks regularly with short-trip use. Regeneration interval of 700–900 km is not reached in urban driving; from 100,000 km ash load is critical.
Symptoms: Engine warning light, power loss, limp mode, increased consumption
The VTG turbo of the 1.3 MultiJet 85 hp shows vane problems at higher mileages. The geometry can seize or the vanes display excessive axial play, resulting in power losses.
Symptoms: Boost pressure fault codes, power loss especially when cold, engine warning light
Identical EGR problem as with all 1.3 MultiJet variants: soot deposits cause the valve to stick and generate fault memory entries. Cleaning is possible but laborious due to restricted accessibility.
Symptoms: EGR fault in OBD memory, power reduction under partial load, hesitant power delivery
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.