Lancia Ypsilon
Updated FIRE 1.2 with Euro 5 emissions standard. Slightly detuned compared to its predecessor but more economical. Proven technology with no particular weak points.
End-of-line engine without drive
The 1.2L end-of-run unit with 51 kW feels strained — Italian design saves the performance image, the engine doesn't.
Engine Weaknesses 3
The rear crankshaft oil seal frequently gives way on FIRE engines, oiling the clutch and timing belt. Fiat itself confirmed the crankshaft's tendency to 'wobble'.
Symptoms: Oil loss at the rear of the engine, oily timing belt, clutch slip, oil smell
Coking of the electronic throttle body from crankcase ventilation oil mist. Cleaning or replacement every 80,000–100,000 km recommended.
Symptoms: Rough idle, judder at part load, engine warning light, flat spots on acceleration
Clutch disc and release bearing wear out relatively early in urban use. The FIRE 1.4 8V produces little torque in the lower rev range, which requires frequent slipping.
Symptoms: Clutch slipping especially when pulling away uphill, scraping noises when depressing the clutch pedal
Vehicle Weaknesses 9
EPS control unit or electric motor faulty — steering becomes extremely heavy. Frequently from 80,000 km. Replacement of the steering module costs 600–1,200 €.
Brake lines rust preferentially at the plastic retaining clips on the underbody. On older vehicles the entire brake system including wheel cylinders must be checked for corrosion.
Door lock actuators fail individually — door can no longer be locked/unlocked by remote or interior button. Driver's door most commonly affected.
Plastic window regulator guide breaks — window drops into the door or jams. Typical Fiat/Lancia defect on the range.
The front control arm rubber bushings wear prematurely and become sloppy. Anti-roll bar bushings also tend to crack. Typical knocking when going over bumps.
Shock absorbers tend to develop leaks from around 100,000 km. Vehicles at MOT are frequently flagged for worn dampers. Aftermarket parts are available.
From around 8 years of age, the sump tends to rust through. The subframe and exhaust manifold are also corrosion-prone. Lack of cavity sealing promotes salt damage.
Blower resistor burns out — fan only runs on the highest setting or not at all. A cheap wear part, but frequently affected on this model.
The plastic headlight lenses yellow heavily due to UV exposure. This impairs light output and leads to MOT failures.
