Hi all!

I’ve been a long time reader and decided that it is long overdue to register and coming out: I love panda’s - and especially my 2013 Fiat Panda 4x4 multijet. Maybe not that rare in GB, but it is actually one of one here in the Netherlands. Yes: it is the only mk3 panda 4x4 diesel in the country. In its previous life it had been imported through germany by a city council where it had spend its maiden years. The’ve loved him well - but used it proper 6 months ago I’ve taken the keys off of them - and sinds then driven it with on big smile in my face.

This forum had already given me al much in terms of information and technical how-to, for which I would like to thank everyone of you!

For my upcoming projects I al looking for a lifting kit and some spacers to really make it a proper Depander…(defender panda-style )

One thing I’m looking for: Does anyone of you know the colorcode of the grey exterior bits - front and rear skittplates? The front one is - let’s say - well used and could use some fresh paint.

And one other more technical thing: when driving slow in second gear there seems to be a slight knock/vibration coming from the driver side (your passenger side GB vs EU ) it’s like a knack in every rotation of the wheel kind of sensation - hard to explain it..

Anyhow - i’ve added a photo of my Panda in a proper Dutch setting! And for any of you keen on social media: you can follow my project on Instagram @Keeping_up_with_the_pandarians

Cheers to all! (And excuse my English…given it my best)

Dennizzvd said:

For my upcoming projects I al looking for a lifting kit and some spacers to really make it a proper Depander…(defender panda-style )

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There's a thread on here somewhere of someone who has already lifted a Panda 4x4, same model I think. A search should find the thread, and if not enough detail, you could send a PM to the owner.

Dennizzvd said:

And one other more technical thing: when driving slow in second gear there seems to be a slight knock/vibration coming from the driver side (your passenger side GB vs EU ) it’s like a knack in every rotation of the wheel kind of sensation - hard to explain it..

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Common wear issues with the 2wd model are anti-roll bar links, probably a weak point for the 4x4 too. They will often feel fine when checked as fitted, but if removed will show their wear. Cheap and simple. Top suspension mounts can go soft, but this usually gives a knock over bumps.

A know with wheel rotation could be a brake pad touching a disc, especially if the disc has a rust spot from sitting damp. The calipers and mounts probably need a good clean, as rust builds up on them.

A good idea to raise the wheel, and rotate it by hand to identify the knock. There could be problems with a wheel bearing or driveshaft, or a wheel weight catching on something. Hopefully a good look, turning the wheel, and poking at every moving component will find the cause, and have a simle fix.

Another possible cause of the knocking sound (on a 4x4 Panda) is failing (or failure) of the rubber doughnut-shaped ring that supports the bearing half way along the prop shaft under the car. The rubber part tends to perish and results in the bearing not being fully supported. Its hard to see as it is inside the 'cage' that protects the universal joint half way along the shaft. There was another post about this recently.

portland_bill said:

A know with wheel rotation could be a brake pad touching a disc, especially if the disc has a rust spot from sitting damp. The calipers and mounts probably need a good clean, as rust builds up on them.

A good idea to raise the wheel, and rotate it by hand to identify the knock. There could be problems with a wheel bearing or driveshaft, or a wheel weight catching on something. Hopefully a good look, turning the wheel, and poking at every moving component will find the cause, and have a simle fix.

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Its actually very difficult (near impossible) to jack up and then rotate just one wheel on the 4x4 cars, as there is always a connection to the other wheels via the 4x4 system, so either you cannot turn the wheel, or if you do, it turns the others and pushes the car off the jack. Best avoided.

Dennizzvd said:

...One thing I’m looking for: Does anyone of you know the colorcode of the grey exterior bits - front and rear skittplates? The front one is - let’s say - well used and could use some fresh paint....

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Welcome - from a fellow 4x4 MJ owner
I don't think the grey parts are painted - I think the plastic is grey coloured right through? Certainly on mine, where the skid plates are scratched, the colour is more than just on the surface.

Herts Hillhopper said:

Its actually very difficult (near impossible) to jack up and then rotate just one wheel on the 4x4 cars, as there is always a connection to the other wheels via the 4x4 system, so either you cannot turn the wheel, or if you do, it turns the others and pushes the car off the jack. Best avoided.

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Need a set of four axle stands then.