Punto problems

fingers01_2

My missus recently bought an R reg Punto sporting and seems to have problems already. Now and again the car fails to start, even though it is ticking over (so not like the battery is dying). When taking it to the garage they tried to do a diagnostic on it and couldn't access the ECU computer for the car. The car will be fine for days and then randomly not want to start. I honestly don't know that much about cars, but need help to find out what the problem could be. The code for the key is an option, also possible starter motor problems, but they are guesses. What is the cheapest, easiest way to go?

Please help

ifonlyitwaseasier

sounds like the starter motor to me, had a similar problem with my old punto (n reg)

try going to a local scrap dealer and see if they have any second hand, they aren't difficult to fit yourself

elwistua

I had a '98 Punto Sporting a couple of years ago and all in all found it a good car and reliable, FIAT's do have some gremlins and the starting issues could be a number of things not least the engine immobiliser, have you tried to start the car the other key (assuming you have more than one). The transponder in the car or the key may not be communicating. Other than that have you tried a good independant garage, I went to the local FIAT dealer once for a recall and although polite enough never filled me with confidence and didn't go back again. Hope you find the problem/solution soon.

delambo

What lights (if any) are on the dash when it does not start? How many keys do you have? Do you have a red key?

There could be any number of reasons for it not starting. As mentioned they have LOADS of common faults with the immobiliser but really you must look at other ideas first unless the key code light is on when it does not start (look in your hand book).

If it is an immobiliser fault you need the red key to do anything to repair it (or so Fiat say) other than replace the lock set, key and ECU (at a cost of over a grand from Fiat). I can (with proof of ownership) turn the immobiliser off in the ECU - PM me for (a reasonable) price if you need to. I also carry service exchange ECUs in stock as they are common for going faulty - again PM me for a price if you need one.

or otherwise you could try this...

chrisw

Try asking on this Fiat forum:-

http://www.fiatforum.com/punto/

I've had all sorts of useful information from there.