The Fiat Bravo, a stylish hatchback, offers a touch of Italian flair to the New Zealand market. While visually appealing and relatively affordable, potential buyers should be aware of specific issues and maintenance considerations.
Common issues with the Fiat Bravo include electrical problems (central locking, windows), suspension wear (especially on rough NZ roads), and turbocharger issues on the turbocharged petrol engines. Check for oil leaks from the engine and gearbox. The Dualogic automated manual transmission (if equipped) can also be problematic.
WOF tips
WOF inspectors will pay attention to tyre condition, brake performance, and suspension components. Rust, particularly around the floor pan and wheel arches, is a potential concern. Ensure all lights are functioning correctly, including the fog lights. In particular, check the lights for water ingress, which can cause corrosion to the bulb contacts.
About the Fiat Bravo D Multijet
The Fiat Bravo offers a more mature and substantial alternative to the smaller Fiat 500, while they are more or less the same underneath. They present the same pitfalls, but do it with more presence on the road. The multi-jet diesels are considered a reliable option, if this suits your driving, and come with some amazing economy. However, they are becoming more common, and availability of parts are becoming limited. Be realistic when purchasing these.
Questions owners ask
What are the most common issues to look out for with a FIAT BRAVO 2007–2014 in New Zealand?
Owners of the FIAT BRAVO 2007–2014 in New Zealand frequently report electrical problems, particularly with central locking and power windows. Suspension wear is also a common concern, especially given New Zealand's varied road conditions. Turbocharged petrol models can experience turbocharger issues, and it's wise to check for oil leaks from the engine and gearbox. If your Bravo has the Dualogic automated manual transmission, be aware that it can be problematic.
What should I pay attention to during a WOF inspection for my FIAT BRAVO 2007–2014?
For a FIAT BRAVO 2007–2014 WOF inspection in New Zealand, inspectors will closely examine tyre condition, brake performance, and all suspension components. Rust, particularly around the floor pan and wheel arches, is a potential failure point. Ensure all lights, including fog lights, are fully functional and check for any water ingress into the light units, which can lead to corrosion of bulb contacts.
Are the multi-jet diesel engines in the FIAT BRAVO 2007–2014 a good option?
The multi-jet diesel engines in the FIAT BRAVO 2007–2014 are generally considered a reliable option and offer impressive fuel economy. However, while they are becoming more common, the availability of specific parts for these diesel variants can be limited. It's important to be realistic about potential part sourcing when considering a diesel Bravo.
Where can I get replacement suspension parts for my FIAT BRAVO 2007–2014 in NZ?
CARFIX stocks 148 SKUs for the FIAT BRAVO 2007–2014, including various suspension components. Given that suspension wear is a common issue on New Zealand roads, you'll likely find the necessary parts for replacement through CARFIX.
What is the recommended service interval for a FIAT BRAVO 2007–2014?
The recommended service interval for a FIAT BRAVO 2007–2014 is every 10,000km. Adhering to this schedule is important for maintaining the vehicle, especially considering its potential for electrical and mechanical issues.
Should I get a pre-purchase inspection for a FIAT BRAVO 2007–2014?
Yes, a pre-purchase inspection is highly recommended for a FIAT BRAVO 2007–2014. This should focus particularly on the electrical system, suspension components, and overall engine condition, as these are common areas for problems. Budgeting for more maintenance than other marques is also a wise approach.