Question 1

What is the Electric Power Steering Failure issue on the Fiat Punto / Grande Punto / Punto Evo?

Accepted Answer

A very common failure where the torque sensor or motor inside the column fails. Symptoms include: Steering warning light, Uneven weight when turning left vs right, Complete loss of assistance. Estimated repair cost: £300–£700.

Question 2

What is the Alternator Housing Cracking issue on the Fiat Punto / Grande Punto / Punto Evo?

Accepted Answer

On 1.2 and 1.4 petrol models, water can drip onto the alternator, causing the casing to crack in freezing weather. Symptoms include: Battery light on, Squealing noise from belt, Charging failure. Estimated repair cost: £150–£300.

Question 3

What is the Overheating and head gasket failure issue on the Fiat Punto / Grande Punto / Punto Evo?

Accepted Answer

The 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. Symptoms include: Creamy residue under oil cap, Coolant loss without visible leak, Overheating gauge, White exhaust smoke. Estimated repair cost: £400–£1,500.

Question 4

What is the Timing belt failure issue on the Fiat Punto / Grande Punto / Punto Evo?

Accepted Answer

The Punto's timing belt should be replaced every 60,000 miles or 5 years. If it snaps or slips, the engine can suffer catastrophic internal damage. This is especially critical on the Interferenz engines where a belt failure means bent valves. Symptoms include: Rattling noise from timing area, Engine cuts out suddenly, Misfire or loss of power before failure. Estimated repair cost: £30–£450 (prevention) / £1,000+ (engine damage).

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