Generations
198 — Second Generation
2007–2019
1.4 T-Jet, 1.6 Multijet, 1.9 Multijet, 2.0 Multijet
Top issues to watch for
The most serious Fiat Bravo problems ranked by severity. We track 5 known issues — here are the ones you need to know about first.
Dangerous
Suspension component corrosion and failure (198)
The Bravo suffers from severe corrosion of suspension components including control arms, subframes, and mounting points. This affects all engine variants but is particularly severe on 1.4 petrol models. The issue is caused by inadequate corrosion protection and poor drainage design around suspension mounting points. MOT data shows this model fails at 23.5 times the national average for suspension component corrosion, making it one of the worst performers in the UK fleet for this defect.
What happens if ignoredCorroded suspension components can fail suddenly, causing loss of vehicle control and serious accidents. The subframe corrosion in particular represents a dangerous structural defect that renders the car unsafe to drive. Repair typically requires replacement of affected components and welding work, with costs escalating rapidly if structural members are compromised.
Independent garage
£300–£1,500
Specialist
£400–£2,000
Main dealer
£600–£2,500
Parts only
£150–£800
Dangerous
Body structure corrosion (198)
The Bravo suffers from significant structural corrosion issues with MOT failure rates 8.2 times higher than the national average. This affects the vehicle's structural integrity and safety, with particular problems around sill sections, floor pans, and load-bearing body members. The corrosion is often hidden until it becomes severe enough to compromise structural rigidity.
What happens if ignoredStructural corrosion represents a serious safety hazard as it can cause catastrophic failure of load-bearing components during an accident. Cars with significant structural corrosion may be uneconomical to repair and could face an immediate MOT failure that prevents road use.
Independent garage
£500–£3,000
Specialist
£800–£4,000
Parts only
£200–£1,500
Major
Engine mount failure (198)
Engine mount failure is exceptionally common on the Bravo, particularly affecting diesel variants. The rubber mounts deteriorate rapidly due to poor material quality and are subjected to high stress from the turbocharged engines. MOT data shows failure rates 19.4 times higher than the national average, with the problem worsening over time as the fleet ages.
What happens if ignoredFailed engine mounts cause excessive vibration, can damage surrounding components, and make the car unpleasant to drive. In severe cases, the engine can move enough to damage wiring, pipes, or other components. The car remains driveable but should be repaired promptly.
Independent garage
£150–£350
Specialist
£200–£400
Main dealer
£300–£500
Parts only
£60–£150
Major
Diesel emissions system deterioration (198)
Diesel variants suffer from high rates of emissions failures, with smoke opacity levels exceeding legal limits at 18.8 times the national average. This primarily affects the 1.9 and 1.6 Multijet engines and is typically caused by EGR valve problems, worn injectors, or blocked diesel particulate filters. The issue is exacerbated by urban driving patterns that don't allow the DPF to regenerate properly.
What happens if ignoredCars with emissions failures will not pass their MOT test and cannot be driven legally on public roads. Repair can be expensive depending on the root cause, with DPF replacement being particularly costly. Some issues can be resolved with forced DPF regeneration, but others require component replacement.
Independent garage
£200–£1,500
Specialist
£300–£2,000
Main dealer
£400–£2,500
Parts only
£100–£1,200
1 more known issues tracked
Including wear items, electrical niggles, and generation-specific problems. Check a specific car to see which issues apply to its age and mileage.
Check a specific car →MOT failure hotspots
Based on DVSA MOT test data. These are the items where the Fiat Bravo fails at a significantly higher rate than the average car.
ABS fault
Suspension · 0-20k miles
MOT failure rate: 153x the fleet average
Sample: 130 tests
Subframe bushes or mounts worn
Suspension · 20-40k miles
MOT failure rate: 24x the fleet average
Sample: 1,207 tests
Exhaust system damage
Bodywork · 0-20k miles
MOT failure rate: 22x the fleet average
Sample: 186 tests
Stop lamps remain on when the brakes are released
Lights & Electrics · 60-80k miles
MOT failure rate: 20x the fleet average
Sample: 7,410 tests
Body panel damage
Bodywork · 60-80k miles
MOT failure rate: 19x the fleet average
Sample: 4,611 tests
Emissions failure
Exhaust & Emissions · 80-100k miles
MOT failure rate: 19x the fleet average
Sample: 1,501 tests
Buying a Fiat Bravo?
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Related
Fiat Bravo reliability FAQs
What are the most common problems with the Fiat Bravo?
The Fiat Bravo has 5 known issues across 3 severity levels. The most serious are: Suspension component corrosion and failure (198), Body structure corrosion (198).
Is the Fiat Bravo reliable?
The Fiat Bravo has 2 dangerous and 2 major known issues. Most can be avoided with a thorough pre-purchase check and full service history.
How much does it cost to fix Fiat Bravo problems?
Repair costs range widely. The most significant issue (Suspension component corrosion and failure (198)) costs £300–£1,500 at an independent garage. Minor issues can be under £200. Always get a full inspection before buying.