SEAT Ibiza Common Problems and Solutions
Overly Vibrating Engine
Problem:
The engine is vibrating excessively and is prone to hesitation.
Solution:
This will be a problem with your coils. Check yours for any defects. You may be able to repair any damaged coils, but in some cases, you will have to buy and install replacements. We have a range of coils available depending on your Ibiza.
Difficulty level
Hard to Start and Pulling is Poor
Problem:
The engine starts, but it's hard to get it to do so. It also pulls poorly, especially uphill. You may also find that the engine malfunction warning light is on.
Solution:
This is a timing chain tensioner error. You'll need to order your replacement and install it. You can find your replacement part right here.
Difficulty level
Tapping Sound When Driving
Problem:
You can hear a tapping noise coming from the front of the car when driving.
Solution:
Your rear bearing on the lower suspension arm is either broken or has become separated. Check if it has just come loose, and if so, pop it back into position. If it's broken, then you will have to buy your replacement using our parts list. This can be a very easy job to do yourself.
Difficulty level
Noise from Front Suspension
Problem:
When you're driving, you can hear a thumping noise from the front of the car. This happens particularly when you're driving over rough surfaces.
Solution:
Your front shock absorbers have become weakened due to oil loss. Unfortunately, the damage is already done, and you will have to order your replacement front shock absorbers. We have a range of front shock absorbers depending on the model and year of your Ibiza.
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Trim rattling
Problem:
It is not uncommon to hear the interior trim rattling on this car.
Solution:
You will need to correctly identify exactly which trim is rattling and refit the trim to stop the rattle.
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EGR valve problem
Problem:
The EGR (Exhaust Gas Re-circulation) valve can get clogged up with carbon which results in poor performance. Another common symptom of this issue is to hear a really loud noise coming from the exhaust. The engine management warning light will most likely be on the dashboard with this fault.
Solution:
You can clean out the carbon build up from the EGR valve to sort this problem out. Have a look at the video below to see how this is done:
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Rough running/idling
Problem:
The coil pack is known to fail on the Ibiza. Common symptoms of this failure are rough running and rough idling.
Solution:
Fitting a replacement coil pack will fix this problem.
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Valve problems
Problem:
There has been known cases when the valves are not working properly on the Ibiza. A good indication of this problem is low oil levels.
Solution:
If you have noticed low oil levels, have the car checked. If it is the valves that are faulty, you will need to have all the valves replaced. This can be an expensive repair, but if the car is still under warranty SEAT should do it for free.
Difficulty level
Windscreen washer jet failure
Problem:
The Ibiza is known for having issues with the washer jet pipes cracking. These pipes can split in very cold temperatures. If you are noticing that the washer jets are not spraying any liquid onto the windscreen and you can hear the pump working, the cracked pipe is the cause of your problem.
Solution:
You will need to identify where the pipe has split and fit a replacement pipe to resolve the issue.
Difficulty level
Sticky Clutch
Problem:
The clutch sometimes sticks in position while driving.
Solution:
The Seat Ibiza is a very reliable car, but it can be a lot thirstier than other makes and models. If your clutch has started to stick, then it's a sign that you haven't been filling up your oil enough. Check your oil levels and fill as needed, and your clutch should return to normal.
Difficulty level
Rattle Coming From Engine
Problem:
When you're driving, you can hear a rattling sound coming from the front of the car.
Solution:
Only affecting 1.2-ltr TSI petrol versions, this is down to a faulty timing chain. You need to catch this early before it starts to cause serious damage to other parts of the car. Replacing a timing chain is a quick process, and you can order yours from us and have it delivered.
Difficulty level
Hand Brake Travel is Excessive
Problem:
When you pull the handbrake up into the park position, it has to travel a lot further than you'd expect.
Solution:
This affects Ibizas built between May 2017 and November 2018 and is down to an incorrectly installed adjuster nut. In most cases, you will simply have to readjust the assembly and fit a locking device to the existing nut. However, if you leave this problem too long, it will cause unnecessary wear and tear on your handbrake unit, and you will eventually need to replace it using our Ibiza spare parts page.
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