Generations
178 — First Generation
1998–2010
0.9 FIRE, 1.1 FIRE
Top issues to watch for
The most serious Fiat Seicento problems ranked by severity. We track 5 known issues — here are the ones you need to know about first.
Dangerous
Subframe mounting point corrosion (178)
The steel mounting points where the front subframe attaches to the body shell are prone to severe corrosion on the Seicento, particularly around the rear subframe mounting bushes. The thin steel construction and poor factory rust protection mean these critical structural areas corrode through completely, compromising the attachment of suspension components and steering rack. This is a well-documented failure mode that has led to MOT failures at 61.9 times the national fleet average. Once the mounting point structure is compromised, welded repair is often uneconomical relative to the car's value.
What happens if ignoredComplete structural failure makes the car immediately dangerous to drive as suspension geometry becomes unpredictable and steering components can detach. Professional welded repair typically costs more than the car's value. The vehicle should not be driven once mounting point integrity is compromised.
Independent garage
£400–£800
Specialist
£500–£1,000
Parts only
£150–£300
Dangerous
Brake system efficiency failure (178)
The Seicento suffers from multiple brake system defects that cause it to fail MOT brake efficiency tests at up to 172.8 times the national fleet average. The most common causes are seized brake calipers, corroded brake lines, and uneven pad wear leading to brake imbalance across axles. The small brake components and thin brake lines are particularly susceptible to corrosion in UK conditions. This creates a genuine safety hazard as braking distances become unpredictable and the car may pull severely under braking.
What happens if ignoredBrake system failure creates immediate danger to occupants and other road users. Complete brake failure is possible if corroded lines rupture or calipers seize completely. Repair costs vary widely depending on extent of corrosion but often exceed £500 for comprehensive brake system overhaul.
Independent garage
£200–£600
Specialist
£250–£700
Parts only
£100–£350
Major
Front suspension component corrosion (178)
Front suspension components on the Seicento corrode and fail at 69.4 times the national fleet average. The most commonly affected parts are lower wishbone arms, anti-roll bar links, and track rod ends, all of which use thin steel construction with inadequate rust protection. Corrosion typically begins at ball joint boots and spreads to the main component structure. Failed components cause excessive play in the front suspension, affecting steering precision and potentially leading to complete separation of steering or suspension components.
What happens if ignoredFailed suspension components compromise vehicle handling and can lead to loss of steering control. Complete component separation is possible in severe cases. Replacement of multiple corroded components typically costs £300-600 depending on extent of damage.
Independent garage
£150–£400
Specialist
£200–£500
Parts only
£80–£250
Major
Shock absorber failure (178)
Shock absorbers fail on the Seicento at 51.2 times the national fleet average, typically through seal failure leading to oil leakage. The front MacPherson strut units are particularly prone to seal degradation, while rear shock absorbers often fail due to corrosion of the main body tube. Failed shock absorbers severely compromise ride quality and vehicle stability, particularly during cornering and emergency braking situations.
What happens if ignoredFailed shock absorbers reduce vehicle stability and increase stopping distances, particularly in emergency situations. Severe leakage can contaminate brake components. Complete shock replacement typically costs £200-400 for a full set including labour.
Independent garage
£120–£250
Specialist
£150–£300
Parts only
£60–£150
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 Fiat Seicento →MOT failure hotspots
Based on DVSA MOT test data. These are the items where the Fiat Seicento fails at a significantly higher rate than the average car.
Braking effort inadequate at a wheel
Brakes · 20-40k miles
MOT failure rate: 173x the fleet average
Sample: 2,185 tests
Anti-roll bar links worn
Suspension · 60-80k miles
MOT failure rate: 101x the fleet average
Sample: 1,031 tests
Suspension component damaged or corroded
Suspension · 60-80k miles
MOT failure rate: 69x the fleet average
Sample: 1,591 tests
Service brake efficiency below minimum requirement
Brakes · 20-40k miles
MOT failure rate: 58x the fleet average
Sample: 2,885 tests
ABS fault
Suspension · 0-20k miles
MOT failure rate: 56x the fleet average
Sample: 489 tests
Brakes imbalance across an axle
Brakes · 0-20k miles
MOT failure rate: 56x the fleet average
Sample: 364 tests
Buying a Fiat Seicento?
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Related
Fiat Seicento reliability FAQs
What are the most common problems with the Fiat Seicento?
The Fiat Seicento has 5 known issues across 3 severity levels. The most serious are: Subframe mounting point corrosion (178), Brake system efficiency failure (178).
Is the Fiat Seicento reliable?
The Fiat Seicento 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 Seicento problems?
Repair costs range widely. The most significant issue (Subframe mounting point corrosion (178)) costs £400–£800 at an independent garage. Minor issues can be under £200. Always get a full inspection before buying.