Post
Research the Car Logo

2019 Fiat Ducato

2019 Fiat Ducato

Overview

The 2019 Fiat Ducato, a popular light commercial vehicle, generally offers a solid platform for various business needs. Its reliability is a key factor for fleet operators and individual owners alike. While the Ducato is known for its practicality and versatility, like any vehicle, it can experience specific issues. This report focuses on documented technical reliability concerns, excluding routine maintenance and general wear and tear, to provide a clear picture of potential problem areas across its different configurations. Understanding these potential issues can help owners and maintenance providers proactively address them, ensuring optimal uptime and operational efficiency.


Engine

2.3L MultiJet II Diesel

DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter) Issues

  • Symptoms: Illuminated DPF warning light, reduced engine power, increased fuel consumption.
  • Solution: Forced regeneration or DPF cleaning/replacement.
  • Cost: $300 - $800

AdBlue System Malfunctions

  • Symptoms: AdBlue warning light, reduced engine performance, potential inability to start.
  • Solution: Refilling AdBlue tank, sensor cleaning or replacement, SCR catalyst repair/replacement.
  • Cost: $200 - $1500

3.0L MultiJet II Diesel

DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter) Issues

  • Symptoms: Illuminated DPF warning light, reduced engine power, increased fuel consumption.
  • Solution: Forced regeneration or DPF cleaning/replacement.
  • Cost: $300 - $800

AdBlue System Malfunctions

  • Symptoms: AdBlue warning light, reduced engine performance, potential inability to start.
  • Solution: Refilling AdBlue tank, sensor cleaning or replacement, SCR catalyst repair/replacement.
  • Cost: $200 - $1500

Transmission

6-Speed Manual

Clutch Wear

  • Symptoms: Slipping clutch, difficulty engaging gears, unusual noises during clutch operation.
  • Solution: Clutch kit replacement (clutch disc, pressure plate, release bearing).
  • Cost: $600 - $1200

6-Speed Comfort-Matic (Automated Manual)

Actuator Malfunctions

  • Symptoms: Erratic gear changes, transmission warning lights, failure to select gears.
  • Solution: Actuator repair or replacement.
  • Cost: $500 - $1500

Transmission Control Module (TCM) Issues

  • Symptoms: Inconsistent gear shifting, ‘gearbox fault’ messages.
  • Solution: TCM diagnosis and reprogramming or replacement.
  • Cost: $400 - $1000

Suspension

Standard Chassis

Front Suspension Bushing Wear

  • Symptoms: Clunking noises over bumps, vague steering feel, uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replacement of worn suspension bushings.
  • Cost: $200 - $500

Electrical

General Electrical System

Battery Drain

  • Symptoms: Vehicle fails to start, intermittent electrical component failures.
  • Solution: Diagnosis to identify parasitic drain, repair faulty modules or wiring.
  • Cost: $150 - $600

Sensor Failures (e.g., ABS, Oxygen)

  • Symptoms: Illuminated warning lights (ABS, Check Engine), performance issues.
  • Solution: Diagnosis and replacement of faulty sensor.
  • Cost: $100 - $400

Exterior

Body Panels and Doors

No Major Issues

  • Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
  • Solution: N/A
  • Cost: N/A

Interior

Cabin Components

No Major Issues

  • Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
  • Solution: N/A
  • Cost: N/A

Summary Verdict

The 2019 Fiat Ducato demonstrates reasonable reliability for a commercial vehicle, with the diesel engines being the primary focus for potential technical concerns. Issues related to the Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) and the AdBlue system are the most commonly reported, particularly with extended use or specific driving cycles that don’t allow for adequate regeneration. The automated manual transmission (Comfort-Matic) can also present challenges with its actuators and control modules. While suspension components like bushings can wear, and electrical gremlins like battery drain are not uncommon, these are generally manageable. The exterior and interior components are largely free from widespread reliability complaints. Overall, with diligent maintenance and awareness of the specific diesel emission system requirements, the Ducato can be a dependable workhorse.

This post is licensed under CC BY 4.0 by the author.