2008 Fiat Brava SX review from UK and Ireland

My wife let the fuel run dry, and when it was refueled it wouldn't start again. When the key was turned, it just refused to start.

I had various mechanics look at it, who all came to the same conclusion; the pump needed replacing. The reason this conclusion was reached was mainly because each time the key was turned, the pump worked for around 5 to 10 seconds then cut out. But actually the pump is OK. What I did is this!

I removed the battery for 45 minutes, then replaced it. I then turned the key, waited for the key code light to go out, then started the engine. I then accessed the top of the tank through the boot, and listened for the pump cutting out. When it did I simply tapped the top of the pump with a rubber mallet; this started it working again. I repeated this for 15 minutes, all the time the car just ticking over and no accelerator used.

After 15 minutes I switched the engine off, then removed the battery leads for 45 minutes. Then after replacing the leads, I turned the key, waited for key code light to go out, then I

proceeded to start the car using no accelerator at all. During this process I left the car ticking over for 5 minutes, then I switched off the engine.

The important thing during this process is not to accelerate at all; just leave it ticking over, as during this time the computer is doing a factory reset. Then restart the car, taking care not to over rev and drive carefully right from the off, because what =ever you teach the car now will affect your fuel economy.

Also, all over electrical gremlins I had on the car had righted themselves.

Despite this fiasco, I rate the car highly and enjoy driving it. I just felt I needed to let people know how to remedy this, as I know an awful lot of people have been talked into paying out around £200+ labour when there is no need. I truly hope other people will find this information helpful.