Hi Guys,

I have a little 1.2 Panda (60bhp) and as soon as I begin to drive (with a stone cold engine) the car begins to bunny-hop until either the clutch is dipped or I push harder on the throttle. Normally happens in 2nd gear, whilst slowly manoeuvring around the estate.

The oil level, coolant levels are good, car has 18,000 miles on the clock and is a 59 plate. Cable throttle (no fly-by-wire) and the clutch fluid is up to max level, no leaks. The car from day one has been serviced by a FIAT main dealer. So genuine parts (spark plugs, oil etc.. ) have always been used.

Once the car has warmed up, using light throttle in second gear, the car still has a small 'shock', judder... however it's less noticeable. The car does feel like someone is constantly pumping the brakes!

Anyway, I have no idea what it could be! Any help would be greatly appreciated.

Matt.

Mine is a 54 plate 1.2 with 34k on the clock. Mine has done this since I got it with 22k on the clock last September. Always in the cold. I've taken to warming it up before moving off on really cold days, and making sure I use more revs when pulling away to stop it juddering. Still does it now and then but seems to go away after a couple of stop starts. The juddering can be quite violent like you suggest. Doesn't do it at all in warm weather.

I do find giving it more revs works a treat. Makes you sound like a little old lady but seems to work.

Hi Jodsclass,

Brilliant, thanks for your help, you have pretty much described the whole situation.

Can I ask, do you find your car rather noisy first thing - rather tappet-y!

It does quieten down a bit, but not completely. However, first thing the ticking is rather noisy! I'm wondering if the valve clearances need looking at! Or would you consider this (the noise) to be normal.

Thanks once again,

Matt.

Yeah mine sounds quite tappety/ticky when cold but purs away when warm. I'm coming from driving big Land Rover diesels and Mercs, so not used to little engines, but seems to be in good order. I did go for a really good quality Shell Helix 5w30 when I serviced it in October. Just do regular oil changes and this engine should go forever.

Hi,

I did an oil change about 4 weeks ago. I used Wilko 10w40 which meets ACEA A3/B3 API SL CF specifications.

The car seems really tappet-y which it didn't before (as far as I can remember). The car drives perfect, no trouble, no smoke from the exhaust etc... Just a little noisy but soon quietens down after a run.

I wonder if it's because of the 'cheap' Wilko grade oil...

Matt.