2009 Fiat Bravo

The 2009 Fiat Bravo is a compact hatchback that was appreciated for its stylish Italian design, comfortable ride, and relatively spacious interior for its class. However, like any vehicle, it has its share of common issues. Engine options included various petrol and diesel engines. Common dislikes include some reports of unreliability and potential issues with electrical systems and certain engine components. The 1.4 T-Jet engine, offered in various power outputs, was a popular choice. One of these options includes the 1.4L T-Jet 16V Petrol engine which produced 118 HP and 151 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options include a 6-speed manual and a Dualogic automated manual transmission.

Engine

1.4 T-Jet 16V Petrol

• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, whistling sound from the turbo, engine management light illumination. The turbocharger can fail due to oil starvation or excessive wear.
  • Solution: Turbocharger replacement. It’s also crucial to identify the root cause of the failure (e.g., oil leaks, blocked oil feed lines) to prevent recurrence.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Ignition Coil Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Misfiring, rough idling, loss of power, check engine light. Individual ignition coils can fail, leading to cylinder misfires.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty ignition coil(s). It’s often recommended to replace all coils simultaneously for preventative maintenance.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Variable Valve Timing (VVT) Actuator Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, poor fuel economy, engine management light. The VVT system can experience issues due to actuator failure or oil contamination.
  • Solution: Replacement of the VVT actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

1.6 Multijet Diesel

• Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: DPF warning light, reduced engine power, frequent active regeneration cycles. DPFs can become clogged, especially with short trips and city driving.
  • Solution: Forced DPF regeneration (if possible), DPF cleaning, or DPF replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• EGR Valve Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, poor acceleration, excessive smoke, check engine light. EGR valves can become clogged with carbon deposits.
  • Solution: EGR valve cleaning or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Manual

• Clutch Wear/Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clutch slippage, difficulty shifting gears, high clutch pedal travel, clutch shuddering.
  • Solution: Clutch replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Gear Selection Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty engaging gears, especially 1st or reverse, grinding noises during shifting. Linkage adjustment or internal gearbox damage could be the cause.
  • Solution: Linkage adjustment, gearbox repair, or gearbox replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Dualogic Automated Manual Transmission

• Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Failure to shift gears, error messages on the dashboard. The hydraulic actuator that controls gear changes can fail.
  • Solution: Actuator replacement or repair.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Clutch Wear/Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Jerky shifting, slippage, failure to engage gears. Similar to the manual transmission, the clutch can wear out prematurely due to the automated system’s operation.
  • Solution: Clutch replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front Suspension Lower Arm Bushing Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Knocking or creaking noises from the front suspension, imprecise steering, uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replacement of the lower arm bushings or the entire lower arm assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear Shock Absorber Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, poor handling, excessive body roll.
  • Solution: Shock absorber replacement (recommend replacing in pairs).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Body Control Module (BCM) Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent electrical problems, such as malfunctioning lights, windows, or central locking. The BCM can be prone to failure.
  • Solution: BCM reprogramming or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Power Window Regulator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Window not working, slow window movement, grinding noises.
  • Solution: Power window regulator replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Door Handle Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Door handle breaking or becoming loose, difficulty opening the door.
  • Solution: Door handle replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking/Melting
  • Description/Symptoms: The dashboard material becoming sticky or developing cracks, especially in hot climates.
  • Solution: Dashboard replacement (expensive), dashboard repair, or dashboard cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary The 2009 Fiat Bravo has some common issues, primarily revolving around engine components like the turbocharger and DPF, and electrical issues. The Dualogic transmission, if equipped, can be a source of costly repairs. Suspension and interior issues are also reported. While some issues are relatively inexpensive to fix, others, such as turbocharger failure or BCM replacement, can be quite costly. Potential buyers should be aware of these common problems and thoroughly inspect the vehicle before purchasing.