2017 Fiat Uno
Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of common issues and complaints reported by owners of the 2017 Fiat Uno, categorized for clarity and accuracy. The Fiat Uno is a subcompact car known for its affordability, fuel efficiency, and maneuverability, making it popular for city driving. For the 2017 model year, it typically came with two engine options: a 1.0L Fire Evo inline-4 engine producing around 73 horsepower and 69 lb-ft of torque and a 1.4L Fire inline-4 engine producing around 85 horsepower and 90 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were commonly paired with a 5-speed manual transmission. What owners typically like is its small size and ease of parking, fuel efficiency, and low price. What they often dislike is its underpowered engine, basic features, and limited cargo space.
Engine
1.0L Fire Evo Inline-4
- Excessive Oil Consumption
- Description/Symptoms: Some owners report higher-than-normal oil consumption, requiring frequent top-ups between oil changes. Symptoms include low oil level warning lights and the need to add oil every few thousand kilometers.
- Solution: Monitoring oil levels regularly and using the recommended oil type can mitigate the issue. If consumption is excessive, a mechanic should inspect for leaks or internal engine issues.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 (oil change and top off) - $500+ (if leaks or more internal engine issues are found, the engine may need to be rebuilt)
- Recalls: None Found
- Ignition Coil Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Misfires, rough idling, and a decrease in engine power. The check engine light may illuminate with codes related to ignition coil malfunction.
- Solution: Replacing the faulty ignition coil(s).
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $150 per coil depending on labor and parts.
- Recalls: None Found
1.4L Fire Inline-4
- Coolant Leaks
- Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks that come from cracked radiator hose, or faulty radiator cap. If left unchecked, it can cause severe engine damage.
- Solution: A mechanic must inspect the vehicle to determine the area that coolant is leaking from, and parts are needed to be ordered. If the vehicle has overheating issues, it may also cause warped heads in the engine and the heads may need to be milled or replaced.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $2000+
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
5-Speed Manual
- Difficulty Shifting into Gear
- Description/Symptoms: Difficulty engaging gears, particularly first and reverse. Grinding noises may be present during gear changes. This is more common in higher mileage vehicles.
- Solution: Inspecting and potentially replacing the clutch assembly, including the clutch disc, pressure plate, and throw-out bearing. Check the shifter linkages for wear or damage.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
- Recalls: None Found
- Worn Clutch
- Description/Symptoms: Clutch slip, high clutch pedal, difficulty shifting, gear grinding
- Solution: Replace the clutch
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Worn Suspension Bushings
- Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noises from the suspension, especially when driving over bumps. Vehicle may exhibit excessive body roll during cornering.
- Solution: Replacing the worn suspension bushings, typically in the control arms and sway bar links.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+ per bushing, depending on location and labor.
- Recalls: None Found
- Damaged Shock Absorbers
- Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, poor handling, and increased stopping distances. Visual inspection may reveal leaking fluid from the shocks.
- Solution: Replacing the damaged shock absorbers.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+ per pair, including labor.
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Battery Drain
- Description/Symptoms: The vehicle battery drains prematurely, leading to difficulty starting the car, especially after it has been sitting for a short time.
- Solution: Test the battery and alternator and replace them if needed. A parasitic draw test can be performed to find the source of the drain.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+ depending on the component that is causing the drain.
- Recalls: None Found
- Faulty Window Regulators
- Description/Symptoms: Windows not going up or down, making grinding noises when going up and down.
- Solution: Replace the Window Regulator
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Headlight Condensation
- Description/Symptoms: Moisture build-up inside the headlight housing, reducing visibility and potentially damaging the bulbs.
- Solution: Remove the headlight assembly and dry it out thoroughly. Seal any cracks or openings in the housing to prevent further moisture ingress. In some cases, the headlight assembly may need to be replaced.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 (sealant) - $200+ (new headlight assembly).
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Loose Trim Pieces
- Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported that some interior trim pieces, especially on the dashboard and door panels, can become loose or detached over time.
- Solution: Reattaching the trim pieces with appropriate clips or adhesive.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $20-$50+ for clips or adhesive, or $50-$200+ for professional repair depending on the severity.
- Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2017 Fiat Uno, while generally reliable for its class, can experience several common issues. The engine issues, such as excessive oil consumption and ignition coil failure, while not always severe, can lead to increased maintenance costs. Transmission issues, particularly with shifting, can affect the driving experience. Suspension issues can impact ride comfort and handling. Electrical problems, such as battery drain, may cause inconvenience, and interior trim issues can detract from the vehicle’s overall appeal. While not all owners will experience these problems, being aware of them can help potential buyers make informed decisions and budget for potential repairs. The overall cost of these repairs can range from minor expenses to more significant investments, depending on the specific issue and its severity.