Fiat Brava 1.6 SX 5d (1996/P) Owner Review
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Economy
Value
Got it at a good price and the new buyer in the next couple of weeks should get a good buy.
Costs
More niggles than my previous car (Primera). All 4 injectors replaced, but Fiat have dropped the price of these due to known faults in early version (see Reliability).
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On the road
Driving
100bhp not bad in a car of this size. Plenty of pull for overtaking. Enjoyable ride, although not tested fully with a baby seat in the back.
Performance
Having friends with 1.2 and 1.4 Brava/o, I know that the 1.6 is a far better choice. (1.8 is OTT and 2.0 just ridiculous with its expensive service - 2.0 just doesn't fit under that bonnet)
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Living with it
Reliability
A known fault with the injectors. All 4 of mine changed, 2 under garage warranty. Replacement injectors are OK as the problem is fixed and Fiat have reduced the price of them as they recognise the problem.
Image
I think it's a smart looking car the headlights make it quite distictive.
Comfort
Driver's seat better than in my Primera (gone is the old cushion I had to use) and room for 3 adults in the back.
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Security and Service
Security
Never tested! Immobiliser rather than alarm (which nobody pays attention to). Can only be started with the correct key (chipped) - don't lose the master key (£££s).
Service
A friend with a Bravo had the same injectors problem. I insisted he go to my local garage who did the job well and for a fair price. But, oh no, he went to Fiat and paid twice the price (even for the parts - which came from Fiat either way).
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Problems and Ownership
Problems
Engine
Sounds fine, but not starting as well as it used to (battery could be damaged as my 18-month-old has run it flat a few times).
Other
Injectors - enough said. Make sure yours have been replaced or are of the new type (sorry can't help you with dates).
Ownership
Did you buy the car new?
Used
Would you buy the same model again?
No
Did you buy from the same manufacturer again?
No