hi everyone
i've got an 1998 R-reg HGT. I bought it 2nd-hand about 2 years ago and almost from the beginning i have had a quiet, strange whirring/rattling noise when i depress off the accelerator at low speeds (ie turning corners). the car has been in & out of the dealer - they claim there is nothing wrong. Now after reading this forum for the last hour, i'm a bit worried about all this cambelt talk. In the last 8mths, my car has produced a horrible screech/rattle from cold starts only, and idle has been slightly erratic recently too. what do u think it is? and how much to fix? worse still, it is now out of warranty! Other details - 147hp engine, 35500miles. please advise!
thanks in advance
phil

Strange Noises

I think that is the normal noise from a FIAT engine. about the cambelts and bearings, to be safe change every 40,000 to 50,000KM. Haynes manual recommended every 60,000KM. Make sure you send to the authorized FIAT service center Because they have the special tools to hold the timing.

surely a loud screech isn't normal!!

Thanks for that,

however, a loud screech from a cold start must mean something wrong?

Phil

Strange noise

I had a similar problem with my 2nd hand 1996 HLX after the first year. The problem with mine was a faulty power steering pump. Ive done around 64000 miles. So have both your timing belt and fan belt tensioners checked. And ask for a proper check eg. starting the engine with fan belt off, the power steering belt off. The work cost about £200 don't know if you Hgt will be more but I'm sure it will, they'll lift the engine out. Quick tip go to your nearest fiat dealer and get a price for the work required. Then phone a fiat service centre at the other end of the country for a price. And if your local is more expensive ask them to match the others price. I've found massive price difference for the same job up and down the uk. Find out your problem soon anything involving belt problems is very expensive if you leave it. Hope the info is useful.