1996 Fiat Brava SX 1.6

Summary:

When she is good, she is very very good, but when she is bad she is murder!!

Faults:

Driver's seat collapsed, had to be replaced.

I am currently on my third battery, as the battery tends to discharge suddenly.

Car overheated and I had to replace the head gasket at 140,000. The fan connects burn out repeatedly.

Alternator failure at 80,000 Km.

Coil (!!) expired at 120,000 Km. I am told this is extremely rare.

Clogged radiator at 145,000 Km.

General Comments:

This car drove like a dream (apart from the suddenly dead batteries) until 120,000 Km, when the troubles started. After more than 20,000 Km. of continuous repairs, I think that the troubles can be traced to the cooling system. The combination of a faulty fan connection and a clogged radiator have caused havoc.

My advice to all owners: Have the radiator cleaned and electrical system and connections checked regularly and you should be OK.

Despite all the problems, this car is excellent value for money, and drives well. I think the biggest problem is the poor dealer service in Israel, who seem to be completely incompetent.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Don't Know

Review Date: 17th May, 2001