General 2016 Cross 4x4 TwinAir 63k miles (recently purchase) - engine vibration at certain RPM

[Rdra]

Hi Guys. I recently purchased a 2016 Cross 4x4 TwinAir with 63k miles - I'd never driven a twinAir so I unfortunately don't know what to expect / assume in terms of driving experience and engine noises/vibration at certain RPM and what is to be expected/normal.

The car is under a 3 month warranty from the dealer (but they are almost 3 hours away (I've also purchased an extended 2 year warranty (for what its worth?). The issue is is that I'm getting a weird vibration (quite pronounced) at about 2200 rpm. Before and after that the car drive well and is nice and quiet/smooth.

Should I book it into to Fiat main deal for an inspection (from some research could it be warn engine mounts, clutch (how to test its on the way out?) , flywheel, transmission issue (hoping its not transmission wind up - I wouldn't know how to test) , rattling heat shield on turbo?

Many thanks in advanced (and thank you for answering my prior questions). Richard

 

[jrkitching]

DMF failure at this sort of mileage is quite commonly reported here, and fits the symptoms you are describing. If this is the cause and you catch it sufficiently early, replacing the DMF and clutch should be a complete cure. If left, it can cause collateral damage which could make this a bigger job.

The clutch & DMF are wear and tear items, so check the small print of the warranty carefully. I'd be surprised if this is covered by the 2 year warranty, but outright failure in the first three months should be claimable against the supplying dealer.

Worn engine mounts make the issue seem worse, but are not the primary cause. Replacing them may improve matters, but if it is the DMF, then the improvement won't be permanent. The selling dealer would likely try this first, leaving you to pick up the big bill in three months time once the dealer warranty has expired.

Given your location, I'd be tempted to try smallcarservices for a diagnostic; cheaper than a main dealer, and those guys know what they're talking about.

 

[Rdra]

Many many thanks for this....Im so glad I reached out to the forum...thanks for taking the time for this comprehensive reply....this makes sense...ill contact smallcarservices as I live near Southampton...perfect...and thanks again...have a nice day...Richard

 

[jrkitching]

I hope this works out well.

Please do let us know how you get on; your reply will assist others in the future.

And we're here for you if there's anything else you need help with.

 

[Rdra]

yes will do...thank you...also not sure if relevant but the dealer sent off the prop shaft for centre prop shaft bearing change as it had slight play (after MOT). It was also re-balanced (apparently) thanks again..Richard

 

[jrkitching]

also not sure if relevant but the dealer sent off the prop shaft for centre prop shaft bearing change as it had slight play (after MOT). It was also re-balanced (apparently)

It is relevant. An out of balance propshaft will cause a vibration which is likely to be significantly worse at some specific rpm.

There are a number of potential causes of unwanted vibration; it's best to keep an open mind at this stage and let the experts have a look at it. But do tell them everything you know about the car's history (including this).

 

[Rdra]

It is relevant. An out of balance propshaft will cause a vibration which is likely to be significantly worse at some specific rpm.

There are a number of potential causes of unwanted vibration; it's best to keep an open mind at this stage and let the experts have a look at it. But do tell them everything you know about the car's history (including this).

Yes...will do...I will be getting the car check out by SmallCarServices later today..I'll let you know what they say thank you

 

[icheatatscrabble]

Dean (who owns Small Car Services) is a good guy and knows his Fiats. He'll get your car sorted, or at least diagnose what is wrong with it.

 

[Rdra]

I’ve just seen Dean at SmallCarServices and yes I agree he knows his stuff. He’s checked it out and also believes as you said that it needs a new clutch and DMF so let’s see what the dealer says re warranty. They seem very genuine. Many Thx. Richard

 

[Panda IIs]

I’ve just seen Dean at SmallCarServices and yes I agree he knows his stuff. He’s checked it out and also believes as you said that it needs a new clutch and DMF so let’s see what the dealer says re warranty. They seem very genuine. Many Thx. Richard

You seem to have good advice; what you describe are classic DMF failing issues (I've had two now) 4x4 TA. Vibration was particularly pronounced in 2nd and 3rd around 2-3000rpm here's some pics of the 2nd failure note the collateral damage around the primary shaft due to everything getting a bit "out of shape" (eccentric);

 

[jrkitching]

note the collateral damage around the primary shaft

Sadly this is common if run for any length of time with a failing DMF. I mentioned the potential for collateral damage in my earlier post.

@Rdra , I'd suggest using the car as little as possible until this is sorted. If you must drive it, treat it gently and try to avoid the rpm range where the vibration is most noticeable.

The DMF was upgraded at some point during the production run, as far as I know, they are interchangeable and I'd want to have the upgraded type fitted.

OEM DMF's are not cheap; there are various different aftermarket alternatives, at various prices. You may have little choice if this turns into a warranty repair, but I'd be wary of unknown brands, and would want to fit either OEM or LUK.

If Dean is doing the work (likely your best option if warranty will pay), be guided by him.

 

[Panda IIs]

You seem to have good advice; what you describe are classic DMF failing issues (I've had two now) 4x4 TA. Vibration was particularly pronounced in 2nd and 3rd around 2-3000rpm here's some pics of the 2nd failure note the collateral damage around the primary shaft due to everything getting a bit "out of shape" (eccentric);

View attachment 474823View attachment 474824View attachment 474825

As I revisit these photos I have only now noticed a combination of AP and LUK parts - this was from the second clutch and DMF replacement the first having been 40k miles earlier and now I suspect didn't include the DMF...

I think that I paid for DMF and clutch and will check, unfortunately the "specialist" who did that job has "retired" and sold up (probably as well for him and clearly to the benefit of others if this really was the case...). Still leaves a bad taste in the mouth though.

 

[Rdra]

Many thanks for the advice and additional info. Very handy. Sorry for your pain re DMF Issues. Yes I’ve been advised by Dean to minimise mileage and take it easy until fixed. Thankfully I have another vehicle that I can use in the meantime. Thanks again for advise. What a great helpful forum.