Had to put it in for a new head gasket - once off the head was found to be very warped, 3 skims to level it, and evidence of prior work (90k miles). (Cost £255 all in, which I thought was very good value)

Garage owner said he's done quite a few on Puntos - is this a recurring problem, and if so, is it specific to any particular engine size/model/age/mileage?

A pity, as we've only had it three months, and in every other respect it's a great car for £1000. Think I might sell it on in a few months with a 12 month MOT, but I'm not sure if I want another one if heads are dodgy?

If it is a fiat with a FIRE engine (1.1 or 1.2 8v in punto) i believe it is a common problem. It has happened to both fiats i have owned with this type of engine.

Someone suggested to me that it is because it is an alloy cylinder head on a cast iron block, therefore everytime you use it, the head and block expand and contract at different rates, stressing the gasket.

On the cinquecento especially, the tiny radiator and small engine bay dont help matters

However apart from this flaw they are suberb engines and very reliable in every other respect.

Phil

My Punto ELX 2000 Model had new gasket @ 23,000 miles
clio

My W reg ELX blew at 44,000, but has been fine ever since.