2009 Fiat Idea

The 2009 Fiat Idea is a mini MPV known for its practical interior, comfortable ride, and compact size, making it suitable for city driving. Engine options for the 2009 Fiat Idea included several gasoline and diesel variants. One common petrol option was the 1.4-liter FIRE engine, producing around 77 horsepower and 85 lb-ft of torque. Diesel options included the 1.3-liter Multijet and 1.6-liter Multijet engines. Transmission choices generally consisted of a 5-speed manual and sometimes a 4-speed automatic, depending on the engine. What owners typically appreciate about the Idea is its spacious interior for its size, good visibility, and ease of parking. Common dislikes include its somewhat dated styling, average performance from the base engine, and potential for electrical gremlins.

Engine

1.4-Liter FIRE Petrol

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks may develop from the valve cover gasket or oil pan gasket. Symptoms include visible oil on the engine, a burning oil smell, and low oil level.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Coil Pack Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Misfires, rough idling, and the engine warning light illuminating.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty ignition coil(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found

1.3-Liter Multijet Diesel

• EGR Valve Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Clogging or failure of the EGR valve, leading to rough idling, poor performance, and the engine warning light illuminating.
  • Solution: Cleaning or replacing the EGR valve.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: DPF clogging, leading to reduced engine performance, increased fuel consumption, and the DPF warning light illuminating.
  • Solution: Forced DPF regeneration, cleaning, or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

1.6-Liter Multijet Diesel

• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Whining noises from the turbo, loss of power, and potentially increased oil consumption.
  • Solution: Turbocharger replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Manual

• Clutch Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Clutch slippage, difficulty shifting gears, and a high clutch pedal engagement point.
  • Solution: Clutch disc, pressure plate, and throwout bearing replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

4-Speed Automatic (If Equipped)

• Shift Delays/Rough Shifts
  • Description/Symptoms: Delays when shifting between gears, or harsh/jerky shifts.
  • Solution: Transmission fluid flush and filter change, or potentially valve body repair/replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Shock Absorber Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive bouncing or swaying, poor handling, and clunking noises from the rear suspension.
  • Solution: Replacing the rear shock absorbers.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Front Suspension Bushing Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Squeaking or creaking noises from the front suspension, imprecise steering, and uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replacing the worn suspension bushings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Central Locking Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Central locking system failing to lock or unlock doors, or intermittent operation.
  • Solution: Repairing or replacing faulty door lock actuators or wiring.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Instrument Cluster Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Gauges malfunctioning, warning lights illuminating erratically, or the entire instrument cluster failing.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the instrument cluster.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust on Lower Body Panels
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust forming on the lower edges of the doors, rocker panels, and wheel arches.
  • Solution: Rust repair and repainting.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks developing on the dashboard surface, especially in hot climates.
  • Solution: Dashboard repair or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Power Window Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Power windows failing to operate, or operating slowly or intermittently.
  • Solution: Replacing faulty window regulators or motors.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary:

The 2009 Fiat Idea can present several potential issues. Engine issues vary depending on the chosen engine, with diesel models potentially suffering from EGR valve or DPF problems. Suspension and electrical faults are also common. While some repairs are relatively inexpensive, others, such as turbocharger replacement or major transmission work, can be costly. The severity of the issues ranges from minor inconveniences to potentially affecting the drivability and safety of the vehicle. Prospective buyers should thoroughly inspect the vehicle and be prepared for potential maintenance costs.