2002 Fiat Punto 1.2 from UK and Ireland - Comments

29th May 2004, 10:22

"Style and practicality above build quality"

What things have gone wrong with the car?

Noisy "harmonic" clutch operation on gradients.

Headlamps out of alignment.

Ignition would turn, but engine would not fire – accompanied by ‘CANCHECK’ message displayed on radio display.

Heavy clutch judder.

Juddering wipers.

Power steering failed on one occasion. Restarting engine fixed the problem.

Passenger airbag or low fuel light would occasionally light up under braking.

Interior rattles.

Noisy brakes – had to be rebuilt twice.

Vibration through steering wheel when braking from high speeds.

Squeaking from rear suspension over poorly surfaced roads.

Creaking from rear suspension on gradients.

A complete lock set had to be purchased to replace a damaged door lock because individual locks are not available.

General comments?

The spacious cabin has some of the best seats I have ever sat in.

The engine is quiet at motorway speeds and offers a decent performance/economy mix.

The optional radio/CD + 100W sub-woofer audio unit is the best in-car system I have experienced.

The steering is well-weighted and the city mode (extra light setting for parking) is very handy, but the handling looses grip easily and the ride is too firm.

The general fit and finish is appalling and long term durability is questionable.


25th Apr 2005, 13:30

Does anyone know how to get rid of the CANCHECK message on the stereo?

Cheers.

Scott.


11th Apr 2006, 15:55

Hello Scott (from the original author of this review)

Sorry, no idea about the "CANCHECK" problem. The message would go out as quickly as it came. It always happened to me when the car wouldn't start so I guess the problem was not with the stereo itself.

The Punto was a real disappointment. I have driven a number of small cars of the same era (late 90s/early 2000s) including the Toyota Yaris & Pug 206 and the Punto is a cracking car compared to these cars, but the poor quality control lets it down.


11th Nov 2009, 06:19

I have a airbag light on my Fiat Punto. The dealer said it was my passenger airbag. Has any one got any idea how to fix it?

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