Fiat Cinquecento Common Problems and Solutions
Oil leaking from top corner of engine
Problem:
If you have noticed that there is an oil leak in the car, this problem is one of the most likely causes on this car. It is usually a leaking rocker cover gasket.
Solution:
Open up the bonnet and have a look at the top of the engine to see if any oil is leaking out the top and particularly running down one of the four corners of the engine. If it is then you have a broken rocker cover gasket. They should always be replaced at 24,000 mile services. Replace the gasket to fix the problem.
Difficulty level
Rocker Cover Gasket
Metal tapping noise from engine
Problem:
If you are hearing this noise coming from the engine then you may have a problem with the tappets.
Solution:
Open the bonnet and listen for the metal tapping noise coming form the engine and if you hear this, you will need to replace the tappets.
Difficulty level
Suspension knocking noise
Problem:
If you have started hearing a knocking noise coming from the suspension area when driving over rough surfaces or bumps, then you most likely have an issue with the rear suspension arm.
Solution:
You will need to fit a new rear suspension arm to resolve the issue.
Difficulty level
Rumbling noise from wheels
Problem:
You may have noticed a rumbling noise coming from the wheels when turning corners or driving at over 30mph. This is caused by the wheel bearings.
Solution:
You will need to fit new wheel bearings on the affected wheel(s).
Difficulty level
Wheel Bearing
Speedo noise
Problem:
If you have started hearing a real whirring noise coming from the Speedo, then you have a problem with the Speedo cable.
Solution:
You will need to fit a new Speedo cable to fix the problem.
Difficulty level
Speedo Cable
Handbrake problems
Problem:
If you are finding that the handbrake is not holding the weight of the vehicle and not able to hold the car at a stand still, particularly on a hill, you have an issue with the rear brake drums.
Solution:
To resolve this issue, you will need to remove the rear brake drums, strip them and clean them. Once refitted, the handbrake should work fine again. Watch the video below to see how this is done:
Difficulty level
Brake Drum