Fiat Punto
The MultiAir engine is technically demanding and sensitive to standing periods and incorrect oil; long-lived with proper maintenance.
Koni + Brembo = Sharp
The full Esseesse kit with Koni FSD, Brembo 305mm and Michelin ZR18 makes the Evo a genuine driver's car. Substantially sharper than the base Evo.
Engine Weaknesses 4
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
The 955A8 has an oil-bathed timing belt (wet belt). The 120,000 km service interval should be shortened to 80,000 km for drivers who use the car hard; oil leaks can damage the belt prematurely.
Symptoms: No early warning symptoms — belt snap occurs suddenly and destroys the engine
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
With regular hard driving (track days, frequent rev limiter use) the 955A8 can burn up to 1 l/5,000 km. Under normal conditions most drivers report no measurable consumption.
Symptoms: Oil level drops with frequent high-revving; no blue smoke in normal use
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.