Fiat Punto / Grande Punto / Punto Evo
The Fiat Punto sold in the UK from 2006 to 2018 was the Type 199 car, launched as the Grande Punto and facelifted twice: to Punto Evo in 2009 and back to plain Punto in 2012. It is a three- or five-door supermini on the SCCS platform shared with the Vauxhall Corsa D, so parts are cheap and independent garages know them well. UK engines ran from the 1.2 and 1.4 FIRE petrols through the 0.9 TwinAir to the 1.3 and 1.6 MultiJet diesels; most cars are 1.2 or 1.4 petrol manuals. Space is good for the class and used prices are very low, but the electric power steering column, cooling system and Blue&Me electronics are the recurring weak points. Later 2012-on cars are better finished and the TwinAir is the most characterful choice; a full service history matters more than mileage.
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Common Faults & Reliability
These are the most common documented problems for the Fiat Punto / Grande Punto / Punto Evo, sorted by their typical impact and frequency.
Electric Power Steering Failure
high severityA very common failure where the torque sensor or motor inside the column fails.
Alternator Housing Cracking
medium severityOn 1.2 and 1.4 petrol models, water can drip onto the alternator, causing the casing to crack in freezing weather.
Overheating and head gasket failure
high severityThe 1.2 and 1.4 petrol engines are prone to overheating if the cooling system is neglected. Head gasket failure can follow, causing creamy residue under the oil cap, coolant loss and poor engine performance. Cars as young as three years old have been affected.
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