Fiat Barchetta Common Problems and Solutions
Poor Radio Reception
Problem:
Your Grundig radio keeps losing reception or switching radio stations when you're driving. You may also be able to hear a hissing or crackling sound.
Solution:
The Grundig radio on the Barchetta is very high quality, but the aerial cable is notoriously poor. Installing a new aerial is a surprisingly challenging job, but it is doable if you have the time and patience. You can order a new aerial direct from BreakerYard.
Difficulty level
Aerial Cable
RPM Dropping
Problem:
As you slow down the car and drop the gears, the RPMs drop suddenly. It causes a wheezing sound from the engine.
Solution:
This is an extremely common issue with the Barchetta, but it's a straightforward DIY fix. The problem is being caused by a buildup of carbon on the idle control valve. You can try cleaning the valve, but this will often only be a temporary fix. Ideally, you should replace the valve completely, which you can do by looking on our parts page for a new one.
Difficulty level
Idle Control Valve
Early front tyre wear
Problem:
It is known on these vehicles for the front tyres to wear down particularly quickly.
Solution:
Make sure that you keep a check on the tyres on the front of the vehicle. The minimum tread depth is 1.6mm, so as soon as it nears this tread depth you will need to replace the tyres.
Difficulty level
Exhaust breaking
Problem:
As the exhaust is so heavy on this vehicle, they are known to break in the middle due to the sheer weight of them. The tailpipes are also known to drop off due to the weight.
Solution:
As the exhaust system is so heavy on this vehicle it is known to break in the middle due to the sheer weight.
Difficulty level
Rear plastic window cracking
Problem:
The rear plastic window on the convertible roof is known to crack. This is caused by the combination of the roof going up and down, cold wind and the heating system being mixed together.
Solution:
Unfortunately, the only way to resolve this issue is to fit a new roof which can be very costly. You can put some sort of tough tape over the crack as a temporary solution.
Difficulty level
Water leak from convertible roof
Problem:
It is known for the convertible roof not to fit well which causes a leak into the cabin, particularly on the driver's side.
Solution:
You can get a replacement convertible roof from us to resolve the issue.
Difficulty level
Rear wheels spread out
Problem:
If it looks like the rear wheels are spread out, looking a bit abnormal then there is an issue with the rear suspension arm. This is common on these vehicles.
Solution:
You will have to fit a replacement rear suspension arm to resolve the issue.
Difficulty level
Loud engine noise
Problem:
If you have noticed that there is a very loud noise coming from the engine and more noticeable when the roof is down, you have a problem with the VVIT (Valve Timing) variator. These cars are petrol and should not have the loud diesel-like sounding engine. A build up of carbon caused this problem which has resulted in the variator ceasing up. Does your engine sound anything like the one in the video below?
Solution:
You will need to get a new VVIT variator fitted to resolve this problem.
Difficulty level
