The Grande Punto reached UK showrooms in 2006 on the SCCS platform shared with the Vauxhall Corsa D. It was larger and better built than the old Punto, with 1.2 and 1.4 petrols and 1.3/1.9 MultiJet diesels.
A very common failure where the torque sensor or motor inside the column fails.
Steering warning light, Uneven weight when turning left vs right, Complete loss of assistance
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.
Creamy residue under oil cap, Coolant loss without visible leak, Overheating gauge, White exhaust smoke
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.
Rattling noise from timing area, Engine cuts out suddenly, Misfire or loss of power before failure
On 1.2 and 1.4 petrol models, water can drip onto the alternator, causing the casing to crack in freezing weather.
Battery light on, Squealing noise from belt, Charging failure