2014 Fiat Strada
The 2014 Fiat Strada is a compact pickup truck, primarily sold in South America and other select markets. It’s known for its practicality, fuel efficiency, and affordability. Engine options for the 2014 Fiat Strada typically included the 1.4L Fire engine, producing approximately 85 horsepower and 90 lb-ft of torque, and the 1.6L E.torQ engine, which produces approximately 115 horsepower and 118 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options were typically limited to a 5-speed manual. Owners appreciate its compact size for navigating urban environments and its utility for light-duty work. Some common dislikes include its relatively basic features, limited cargo capacity, and somewhat underpowered engines, especially when fully loaded.
Engine
1.4L Fire
- Excessive Oil Consumption
- Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported higher than normal oil consumption, requiring frequent top-ups between oil changes. Symptoms include low oil level warning lights and potentially blue exhaust smoke.
- Solution: Monitor oil levels regularly and check for leaks. Depending on the cause, solutions range from replacing valve stem seals to piston rings.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2000+ depending on the root cause and repair needed.
- Recalls: None Found
- Coil Pack Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Misfires, rough idling, loss of power, check engine light.
- Solution: Replacement of faulty coil pack(s).
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200 per coil pack (including labor).
- Recalls: None Found
1.6L E.torQ
- Engine knock/Ping at Higher RPMs
- Description/Symptoms: Audible knocking or pinging sound from the engine, particularly under heavy acceleration or at higher engine speeds.
- Solution: Use higher octane fuel. Check for carbon buildup. Check knock sensor.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $20-$200
- Recalls: None Found
- Thermostat Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Overheating or failure to reach operating temperature.
- Solution: Replacement of the thermostat.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300.
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
5-Speed Manual
- Difficult Shifting/Grinding Gears
- Description/Symptoms: Difficulty engaging certain gears, especially first or second, or a grinding noise when shifting.
- Solution: Check and adjust the clutch cable. If that does not fix the problem, replace the clutch disc, pressure plate, and throw-out bearing.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800.
- Recalls: None Found
- Worn Synchros
- Description/Symptoms: Grinding noise when shifting into specific gears, particularly when shifting quickly. This is often noticeable in 2nd or 3rd gear.
- Solution: Transmission overhaul or replacement of the worn synchronizers.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500.
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Rear Leaf Spring Sagging
- Description/Symptoms: Rear of the vehicle sits lower than normal, reduced load-carrying capacity, and a harsher ride.
- Solution: Replacement of the rear leaf springs. Adding helper springs may also be considered.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800 (for leaf spring replacement).
- Recalls: None Found
- Worn Shocks/Struts
- Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, poor handling, excessive body roll, and potentially leaking fluid from the shocks/struts.
- Solution: Replacement of the worn shocks/struts.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600 (for shocks/struts replacement).
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Faulty Window Regulator
- Description/Symptoms: Window moving erratically or not at all, clicking sound from the door when operating the window switch.
- Solution: Replacement of the window regulator.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400.
- Recalls: None Found
- Dim or Flickering Headlights
- Description/Symptoms: Headlights appear dim or flicker intermittently. Can be caused by a failing alternator, poor ground connections, or faulty headlight bulbs.
- Solution: Check and clean ground connections, test the alternator, and replace headlight bulbs as needed.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $20 - $300 (depending on the cause).
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Rust on Underbody
- Description/Symptoms: Visible rust forming on the underbody components, especially in areas exposed to road salt or moisture.
- Solution: Cleaning and treating rusted areas, applying rust-proofing coatings. More severe cases may require welding repairs or component replacement.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+ depending on severity.
- Recalls: None Found
- Tail Light Cracking
- Description/Symptoms: Cracks forming in the tail light lenses, allowing moisture to enter.
- Solution: Replacement of the tail light assembly.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200 per tail light assembly.
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Dashboard Cracking
- Description/Symptoms: Cracks appearing on the dashboard, especially in areas exposed to direct sunlight.
- Solution: Dashboard replacement or use of a dashboard cover.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $800.
- Recalls: None Found
- Seat Belt Retractor Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Seat belt not retracting properly or at all.
- Solution: Replacement of the seat belt retractor.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300 per seat belt.
- Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2014 Fiat Strada presents a range of potential issues, spanning from engine and transmission concerns to electrical and suspension problems. The severity and cost of these issues vary widely. Engine problems, such as excessive oil consumption and coil pack failures in the 1.4L and knocking with the 1.6L, could lead to moderate repair expenses. Transmission issues like difficult shifting can potentially result in costly repairs or replacement of clutch components. Suspension issues may arise as the vehicle ages, leading to expenses to replace worn shocks and springs. Electrical problems, such as faulty window regulators, or dim headlights, can result in moderately costly repairs. Exterior issues, such as rust, can become major issues if left untreated. Interior issues, such as cracked dashboards and seat belt problems, could present moderate inconveniences to drivers. Overall, while the Fiat Strada is known for its utility and affordability, potential buyers should be aware of these common issues and factor in potential repair costs when considering purchasing this vehicle.