CarValidator

1.6 Multijet (diesel)

20082014 · diesel · 1598cc · 120hp

Engine codes: 198A2000, 955A

Problematic

Reliability, common problems and owner reviews for the Fiat Bravo II 1.6 Multijet (diesel). Check this before you buy used.

The 1.6 Multijet has a known design flaw: the oil-intake tube connection to the pump is sealed only by a rubber ring that hardens with age, letting air into the oil pump — oil pressure drops (first on cold start, then potentially seizing the engine on the motorway). Add DPF/EGR on short trips. Risky without disciplined servicing; the 1.9 is the safer Multijet.

Same engine, other cars

This is the same physical engine (55260384) sold under different names across brands. Reliability is broadly shared — cross-check these:

Known Issues

Oil pump air ingress (intake-tube seal)critical

Hardened rubber ring on the oil-intake tube lets air into the oil pump → oil pressure drop → possible engine seizure while driving.

Fix / Workaround: Replace the oil pickup/intake seal proactively; monitor oil pressure; act on any cold-start oil-pressure warning.

Repair cost: €200–€2500

Typically appears after: 120,000 km

DPF / EGR cloggingrecurring

Clogs on short trips.

Fix / Workaround: Motorway runs; clean/replace.

Repair cost: €200–€900

Mileage Thresholds

After 120,000 km: Oil-pump air-ingress risk.

Pre-Purchase Checklist

  • Ask about oil pickup/intake seal replacement
  • Act on any oil-pressure warning immediately
  • Prefer the 1.9 Multijet
  • DPF/EGR history

Frequently asked questions

Is the Fiat Bravo II 1.6 Multijet (diesel) reliable?

Problematic — The 1.6 Multijet has a known design flaw: the oil-intake tube connection to the pump is sealed only by a rubber ring that hardens with age, letting air into the oil pump — oil pressure drops (first on cold start, then potentially seizing the engine on the motorway). Add DPF/EGR on short trips. Risky without disciplined servicing; the 1.9 is the safer Multijet.

What are the common problems and reviews for the Fiat Bravo II 1.6 Multijet (diesel)?

The most commonly reported problems: Oil pump air ingress (intake-tube seal), DPF / EGR clogging.

Is a used Fiat Bravo II 1.6 Multijet (diesel) worth buying?

Known design issues and recurring faults that were never fully resolved. Buy only with eyes open.