Fiat Croma Common Problems and Solutions
Hesitant Deceleration (All Automatic Diesels)
Problem:
When you start to decelerate, the engine hesitates.
Solution:
You're going to need to get to a Honda specialist who can upgrade your software. If your car is still under warranty, then you may get this done for free.
Difficulty level
Lurching When Driving
Problem:
The car surges forward when you're driving, more noticeable at low speeds. Engine performance has noticeably dropped, and a warning light may be on your dashboard.
Solution:
It's likely that your lambda sensor has worn out and will need to be replaced. This is very common on the Croma, but it's an easy fix. You will need to get it done quickly as ignoring the problem can lead to a catalytic converter failure, and you won't pass your next MOT. We always have lambda sensors available to order.
Difficulty level
Humming At Cold Start
Problem:
When you start the engine from cold, you can hear a loud humming noise coming from the engine.
Solution:
The fuel pipe that's installed on the Croma is made of very weak material, and it tends to vibrate excessively until it gets warmer. This is a cheap part to buy from our parts list and very easy to install.
Difficulty level
Loss of Turbo
Problem:
Your turbo has stopped kicking in when you're at lower than 2500rpms.
Solution:
Have a look at the pipe hoses on the vacuum side of the turbo control valve. They may be cracked, and you're going to have to remove and then install a new one from our parts page for the Croma. If the hoses look fine, then check your wastegate actuator is working, and replace it if it's not.
Difficulty level
Heater Only Blowing Cold Air
Problem:
Your car heater is only blowing cold air.
Solution:
Check your fuses first, and then the heater fan. If either show any obvious signs of wear or damage, then order replacements from our parts list. Check your coolant levels and any signs of a coolant leak. Then, let the engine run for a while with the heater on and check that the hoses that lead into the heater matrix are warm. If so, then the heater flap is worn out and will need to be replaced.
Difficulty level
Flickering Lights
Problem:
Your headlights are very dim or flickering. You may start to have issues starting the car, especially from cold starts. The car may start to stall regularly, and there may be unusual smells inside.
Solution:
The alternator on the Croma is a bit of a weak spot, and some drivers find that they have to make multiple replacements. Fortunately, it's well-placed for easy removal and installation, and a new alternator is very inexpensive when you order for delivery by BreakerYard.
Difficulty level
Intermittent power loss
Problem:
On diesel versions of the Croma, you may find that the vehicle is losing power intermittently. This problem is caused by the DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter) being clogged up. It gets clogged up when doing a lot of driving around town, not allowing the DPF to heat up enough to burn off the unwanted particles.
Solution:
Take the vehicle out onto the motorway or an A-road so that you can drive at around 2500rpm for 15 minutes to allow the DPF to heat up enough to burn off the harmful particles. This should resolve the issue, otherwise you may need a new DPF. Watch the video below to see how to fix the problem:
Difficulty level
Power steering failure
Problem:
If the power steering has stopped working on your Croma, this is a common problem on these vehicles. There is a problem with the connections on the red power lead.
Solution:
You will need to fix the connection to fix the problem.
Difficulty level
Cabin misting up
Problem:
The Croma is known for the cabin misting up. This problem is due to a fault with the recirculation flap.
Solution:
This problem was subject to a recall, so should be fixed free of charge as it is a manufacturing error.
Difficulty level
Boot release problem
Problem:
It is known on the Croma to have problems with the boot lid not opening manually. It opens without problems with the remote, but not so when trying to open it manually.
Solution:
This problem can be resolved in a number of ways. The first place to begin with is having a software update, which should resolve the issue. If this does not work, you will need to fit a new boot micro switch, which only comes as a unit with the boot release handle. Warranty should cover this problem, if you still have one.
Difficulty level