The FIAT Seicento, also known as the 600, is a basic, small city vehicle that is very rare in NZ. Intended as a small economical commuter, is it viable?
Common problems include: Rust, electrical faults, timing belt failures, and wear to the small suspension. The engine is basic, but can be fragile if not well maintained.
WOF tips
Rust is a major issue within the chassis and suspension mounting points. Brakes must be well maintained. Tyres must be in good order. If a failure occurs, it may be written off as it's cheaper to move on.
About the Fiat Seicento / 600 1170 A1.046
The FIAT Seicento's main advantage is it's small size and low running expenses. A city driver only, it's reliability can be a concern as it is very old at this point in time.
Questions owners ask
What are some common problems I might encounter with my FIAT SEICENTO / 600 1997–2008 in New Zealand?
Common issues with the FIAT SEICENTO / 600 include rust, particularly in the chassis and suspension mounting points, electrical faults, timing belt failures, and wear to the suspension components. The engine, while basic, can be fragile if not properly maintained.
How often should I service my FIAT SEICENTO / 600?
The recommended service interval for the FIAT SEICENTO / 600 is every 10,000km.
What should I pay attention to during a WOF inspection on my FIAT SEICENTO / 600?
During a WOF inspection, pay close attention to rust, especially within the chassis and suspension mounting points. The brakes and tyres must also be in good condition to pass the inspection.
Where can I get parts for my FIAT SEICENTO / 600 1997–2008 in NZ?
CARFIX stocks 27 SKUs for the FIAT SEICENTO / 600. You can find parts like brake pads, filters, and suspension components on the CARFIX website or at your local CARFIX store.
Is the FIAT SEICENTO / 600 a good car for city driving in New Zealand?
The FIAT SEICENTO / 600 is well-suited to city driving due to its small size. However, its age means reliability can be a concern, and rust is a common issue.
What are the main rust-prone areas on a FIAT SEICENTO / 600 for a WOF?
For WOF purposes, the main rust-prone areas on the FIAT SEICENTO / 600 are the chassis and suspension mounting points. These areas are critical for structural integrity and are closely inspected.
What kind of maintenance is required to keep the engine of my FIAT SEICENTO / 600 running smoothly?
To keep the engine of your FIAT SEICENTO / 600 running smoothly, regular maintenance is crucial. This includes timely oil changes, spark plug replacements, and ensuring the timing belt is in good condition to prevent failures.