Segment:
Subcompact/City Car
Key Selling Points:
Affordability, fuel efficiency, compact size, practicality, European styling.
Direct Competitors:
Ford Fiesta, Volkswagen Polo, Renault Clio, Peugeot 205/206, Opel Corsa.
Design Philosophy:
Modern, distinctive styling with a focus on practicality and interior space for its class.
Innovation:
Introduction of the 'Dual Stage Inflator' airbag system (later in the generation), innovative interior packaging.
Engine Mechanical:
Complete overhaul, component testing, diagnostics, timing belt replacement, cylinder head service, piston and connecting rod assembly.
Engine Management:
Fuel injection systems (MPI), ignition systems, sensor diagnostics, ECU functions, emission control systems.
Transmission:
Manual transmission (5-speed) repair, clutch system, gearbox overhaul, fluid changes, axle shafts.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, wheel bearings, alignment procedures.
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, brake fluid, front and rear brake pads and discs, calipers, wheel cylinders, ABS system (if equipped), parking brake.
Steering:
Steering column, steering rack, power steering system (hydraulic), tie rod ends, steering linkages.
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system (alternator, starter motor), lighting system, wiring diagrams, fuses, relays, common electrical faults.
Body And Chassis:
Body panels, doors, hood, trunk lid, interior trim, glass replacement, rust prevention, collision repair guidelines, jacking points.
Heating And Air Conditioning:
HVAC system components, refrigerant handling, fan system, climate control diagnostics.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil and filter changes, air filter replacement, spark plug replacement, coolant flush, brake fluid flush, tire rotation.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts for common symptoms, error code interpretation (OBD-I/OBD-II depending on model year), step-by-step fault finding.
Repair Procedures:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for disassembly, repair, and reassembly of all major vehicle components.
Diagnostics:
Component testing procedures, wiring diagrams for electrical fault finding, pressure tests, vacuum tests.
Assembly Disassembly:
Comprehensive guides for taking apart and putting back together all mechanical and electrical sub-assemblies.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering from basic maintenance to in-depth engine and transmission overhauls, including electrical system diagnostics.
Target Audience:
DIY mechanics, professional technicians, automotive enthusiasts.
Engine Options:
1.1L (FIRE), 1.2L (FIRE), 1.4L (FIRE), 1.6L (8V & 16V Fire) petrol engines; 1.7L and 1.9L Diesel engines.
Typical Horsepower Range:
55 hp (1.1L) to 130 hp (Abarth version).
Typical Torque Range:
85 Nm (1.1L) to 160 Nm (1.6L 16V).
Injection Type:
Multi-point fuel injection (MPI) for petrol engines.
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Petrol (RON 95 recommended), Diesel
Common Petrol Engines:
176A2.000 (1.2L), 182A4.000 (1.4L), 176B3.000 (1.6L 16V).
Common Diesel Engines:
176B1.000 (1.7 TD).
Euro Ncap Rating:
Not directly comparable to modern standards, but early models had lower scores. Later models with dual airbags improved.
ABS:
Optional on many models, standard on higher trims or later years.
Airbags:
Driver airbag standard, passenger airbag optional/standard on later models. Early models had single-stage, later had dual-stage inflators.
Seatbelts:
Front and rear seatbelts, pre-tensioners on front belts.
Radio Options:
Factory fitted cassette or CD players, often with basic AM/FM radio.
Display:
Basic digital display for clock and radio presets, or older analog gauges.
Features:
Limited; parking sensors were not common, ABS was optional. Focus was on basic functionality.
Bluetooth:
Not available on original models.
Usb:
Not available on original models.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 15,000 km or 1 year, whichever comes first. Check manual for specific engine.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Critical: typically 80,000 - 120,000 km or 5 years for most FIRE engines. Failure can cause severe engine damage.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000-60,000 km, depending on plug type (standard vs. platinum).
Engine Oil Type:
API SG/SH ACEA A2/A3 SAE 10W-40 or 15W-40 (check specific engine and climate).
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol based antifreeze, typically blue or red, 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 3.5 - 4.5 liters (depending on engine variant)
Common Problems:
Timing belt failure, ignition coil failure, lambda sensor issues, rear wheel bearing wear, exhaust manifold cracks, door lock actuators failing, power steering pump leaks.
Common Problems Electrical:
Central locking issues, window regulator failures, dashboard warning light illumination.
Manufacturer:
Fiat Automobiles S.p.A.
Facelift:
A significant facelift occurred in 1997, introducing updated styling, engines, and interior features, often referred to as the 'Punto Mk1 Facelift' or 'Punto ELX/SX'.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Italy (Melfi plant), also other Fiat plants in Europe.
Sales Volume:
Highly successful model, one of Fiat's best-selling cars of the 1990s.
