Technical Fiat Ducato 2.3 Multijet

[Encebras88]

Has anyone had a similar experience?
Dear Fiat and Stellantis Management,
I am writing again to escalate a critical unresolved issue involving a catastrophic engine failure on my Fiat Ducato 2.3 Multijet (2019), VIN: ZFA25000002F47090, and the complete failure of Fiat’s service network to support me.
I have now sent multiple emails (including to [email protected], [email protected], and [email protected]) and received zero response. This lack of engagement is unacceptable, especially as I have:
Suffered a known engine defect (collapsed exhaust valve on cylinder 4)
Followed Fiat’s instructions to contact an official dealer (none responded)
Offered to cover transport to a Fiat workshop (ignored)
Been forced to repair the vehicle independently, with likely costs of thousands of euros
I have done everything Fiat has asked — and more — yet have been completely disregarded.
If this issue is not addressed immediately, I will be forced to pursue further channels:
Contacting Spanish consumer protection authorities
Publishing my case across social media and public motorhome forums
Submitting this issue to motorhome and automotive press in Spain and the UK
I request:
A written acknowledgment of this case
Details on how I may submit documentation (repair invoices, proof of contact attempts)
Fiat’s position on goodwill compensation
I expect a formal response within 5 working days.
Sincerely,
Robert T Henderson
[email protected]
0034622566470
VIN: ZFA25000002F47090
9806KXZ
Caserio Encebras, 88, Pinoso, Alicante, 03650, Spain
Good morning,
For the last week or so I have been trying to make contact with an actual person, preferably one in a position of authority, to discuss the breakdown of my vehicle. This is a recognised fault in the drive train of motors produced between 2018-2021 with valve breakages on vehicles with 50/70,000kms. I only ask that some measure of goodwill is shown here, as up until now I feel totally dismissed and let down by the Fiat brand.
I don't think it is too much to ask for a constructive reply as opposed to those I have received thus far.
I sincerely hope that you are the person to show some understanding as I do not wish this matter to continue unnecessarily.

Yours
Robert Henderson

Show quoted text

 

[MSjoberg]

Sorry to hear about your problems, hopefully they will resolve positively soon.

Since I own a 2018, your statement about the ”recognised fault in the drivetrain” makes me curious. Can you provide some information about this, e.g. a link?

Best regards

 

[Encebras88]

Sorry to hear about your problems, hopefully they will resolve positively soon.

Since I own a 2018, your statement about the ”recognised fault in the drivetrain” makes me curious. Can you provide some information about this, e.g. a link?

Best regards

• The exhaust valve failed catastrophically, likely due to valve stem fatigue, seat failure, or material defect.
• This may or may not be directly related to the camshaft issues, but valvetrain weakness has been reported in the same generation of engines.
• You're not alone — multiple 2018–2021 Ducato owners (especially motorhomes) have reported:
  • Valve breakages around 50,000–70,000 km
  • Premature camshaft lobe wear
  • Valve stem failures without warning

 

[lycopersicum]

That sounds like it's from an AI. I would take it with a pinch of salt. I've gotten similar "you're not alone" / "Ah yes, this model year is known for..." answers suspiciously often when I've asked Claude about a potential mechanical issue. I don't think it's necessarily based on reality.

 

[Encebras88]

That sounds like it's from an AI. I would take it with a pinch of salt. I've gotten similar "you're not alone" / "Ah yes, this model year is known for..." answers suspiciously often when I've asked Claude about a potential mechanical issue. I don't think it's necessarily based on reality.

Yes, it's mostly from Chatgpt, but on further investigation, this is not uncommon. Indeed, where I had to take the head, I was told that this wasn't the first they had come across. Bottom line is that Fiat are not interested in even discussing the matter.

 

[deejays]

I also own a similar vehicle, and you have raised my concern by your statement that your engine “Suffered a known engine defect (collapsed exhaust valve on cylinder 4)". Could you please confirm your references for this reported engine defect as this is the first I have heard of any such known engine defect?

 

[deejays]

It would appear that you are directing your complaint and warranty claim in the wrong direction. According to the records on this forum, you posted one month ago the following thread: https://www.fiatforum.com/threads/engine.517784/ In that thread, you stated the following:

"I have a Pilote P600 2.3 multijet 130 motorhome. Last week on return from MOT station after a couple of clunks, the engine stopped. Taken to garage by breakdown and partially stripped to allow access to turn the engine. Solid. Had the timing belt etc changed about 5 weeks ago. Everthing fine apart from 3/4 occasions when it would'nt start first time, but then it fires up. Put this down to possibly dirty fuel, hence the service and MOT. Mechanic says the belt, tension etc is spot on and is going to investigate further. Any suggestions greatly appreciated.
Thank you in advance,
Robert"

From your own words you state the timing belt was changed 5 weeks prior and that you had issues starting the engine after that. It would seem more likely that you could have a warranty/damages claim against the installer of the timing belt, rather than giving FIAT bad press.