Fiat Tipo
Fiat-developed common rail diesel with a fundamentally solid reputation; considered one of the more robust modern diesel four-cylinders. In predominantly urban use, DPF and EGR are the classic problem areas.
Estate Workhorse
T-Jet in the estate — functional and adequate. Right choice for families, fun is not part of the deal.
Engine Weaknesses 5
The turbocharger of the 1.6 MultiJet II shows wear at high mileages. Isolated reports from German forums describe sporadic turbo failure from approximately 100,000 km; boost pressure sensor faults are often a precursor.
Symptoms: Power loss at mid-range revs, boost pressure fault in fault memory, blue smoke from exhaust, metallic noises from turbo area
The DPF of the 1.6 MultiJet II blocks with predominantly short-trip use. In urban traffic the exhaust system does not reach the 500–600°C needed for regeneration; the ash layer accumulates and permanently blocks the filter.
Symptoms: DPF warning light on, power loss from increased back pressure, increased fuel consumption, occasional limp mode
The EGR valve of the 1.6 MultiJet II carbons up with increasing mileage, especially in urban use. Soot particles from the exhaust stream deposit and cause a sticking valve or complete failure with fault code.
Symptoms: Engine warning light, poor throttle response, juddering at low revs, increased soot output when pulling away
At higher mileages, soot particles deposit on the injector tips of the common rail system. Injection characteristics deteriorate, causing rough running and increased consumption. Preventive additives can slow the process.
Symptoms: Rough running, increased fuel consumption, juddering under load, black smoke when accelerating
The dual-mass flywheel of the 1.6 MultiJet II is a typical wear item with short-trip use and aggressive shifting. Noises when pulling away and when switching off the engine announce the fault.
Symptoms: Knocking or rattling when starting and switching off, vibrations when pulling away at low revs, shuddering when engaging clutch
Vehicle Weaknesses 14
Recall on the Fiat Tipo (356) for faulty airbag wiring in the steering wheel. Affected model years 2015–2016.
Recall action 2020–2021 on the Fiat Tipo (356) for software faults in the restraint moments.
Recall on the Fiat Tipo (356) for non-conforming airbag charge quantity.
MOT reports show above-average braking efficiency defects for the Fiat Tipo (356). Brake discs rust quickly.
The DDCT dual-clutch gearbox in the Fiat Tipo (356) sometimes shifts erratically and judders on pull-away from rest. Earlier examples more frequently affected.
The UConnect infotainment in the Fiat Tipo (356) stands out for Bluetooth connection drops, DAB reception problems and sporadic system crashes.
The rear torsion beam axle of the Fiat Tipo (356) develops noises with increasing mileage. Rear axle bushes wear.
The AC condenser of the Fiat Tipo (356) is exposed to stone chip damage and can become leaky through corrosion. Replacement costs €400–700.
Exhaust system and underbody components on the Fiat Tipo (356) corrode above-average, already after 5–7 years with short-trip use.
Tie rod ends on the Fiat Tipo (356) wear earlier than the class average and are regularly flagged at MOT.
Vehicles from model years 2016–2017 show more frequent battery failures than the class average. Weak original equipment battery.
Window regulators on the Fiat Tipo (356) can fail due to cable failure or motor failure. Replacement depending on side: €150–350.
Door trims and interior plastics on the Fiat Tipo (356) rattle and creak at normal driving. Typical for this price segment.
Panel gaps on the Fiat Tipo (356) are sometimes uneven from the factory. Doors and bonnets can sit skewed. Not a safety defect but visually annoying.