Panda Loving my new 100hp!

[Dougo]

Hello,
I've not long had a 2009 100hp that I'm starting to enjoy - so easy to whiz around in, but so nice in traffic and to park. Wish I'd got one ages ago!
Hopefully you guys can help with future technical queries and mods.
Doug

 

[Eklipze3k]

Welcome to the forum

I've changed the prefix on this thread as the 100HP is not a classic Panda I've also moved your other thread out of Members Motors to the relevant Panda section

 

[GazzP87]

Welcome to the club!! Details!?! Picture?!?

 

[The Panda Nut]

Welcome here! I am totally obsessed with the 100HP they are amazing things. I did 100K miles in mine and it was fantastic. If I could get a new one now I wouldn't hesitate. Hope its a great car for you. They seem reliable and simple to maintain. I recommend you change the rear bump stops for ones off a Brava/ Bravo pr Fiat coupe as these are shorter allow greater spring travel and vastly improve the ride with little adverse effect. Bilstein gas filled dampers are also a good investment. ENJOY!!

 

[DaveMcT]

I have one too. Do check the back axle for rust especially the spring pans. All 169 Pandas suffer in that area but the stiffer springs on 100HP seem to accelerate the failure rate.

Look at the spring pan upturns about 20mm from the welds to the swingarm. They seem to get the most stress just there are corrode faster. The fix is welding, but access is good with the car on a lift. Just disconnect the rear shocks and drop the axle down.
I would say its worth weld reinforcing any 10 years old car to stop the trouble before it catches you out.


The Fiat 500 axle will fit lower spec 169s but the 50mm wider track is too much for the 100HP's wide wheels. It's a shame as the built-in anti roll bar gives a big improvement in handling.