1998 Fiat Brava SX review from UK and Ireland
"Bad, bad, bad, I'd rather walk everywhere, and I'm disabled"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Intermittent engine cut out at low revs, dealer unable to trace the fault. Despite more than 12 attempts at a remedy, inc. 4 TDC sensors, revs still drop off the bottom at idle.
Noisy, whiny, rattly engine - sounds like a diesel when cold.
Windscreen washer pump broken and replaced 3 times, needing a tailgate cover replaced first time as Fiat bonded it to the rear window.
Car pulls to left under braking.
Rattles and squeaks from interior trim.
FFSR drips.
Battery drained and went flat for no reason. Not repaired, problem went away.
Passenger side electric window slows and sticks.
Needed new exhaust at 10 months/8000 miles.
Another at 24 months/15,000 miles.
Radio suppression poor and deteriorating.
Gearbox clunky and difficult to engage 1st and reverse. It's often dropped out of 1st when pulling off.
General comments?
Don't go near these cars. I've previously owned 3 Fiats - never again. It's underpowered, unreliable, expensive to run for what it is and has no redeeming features.
Hell, even visibility is appalling, rear mirror is useless with rear head restraints fitted, and the front pillars are so thick they're almost dangerous.
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| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | No |
| First year of ownership | 1998 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2000 |
| Engine and transmission | 1.4 Manual |
| Performance marks | 3/10 |
| Reliability marks | 0/10 |
| Comfort marks | 5/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 7/10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 4/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 0 miles |
| Most recent distance | 18000 miles |
| Date of Entry | 24th September, 2000 |