Technical New to the Seicento & their issues!

[RichT1]

Hi Guys

I am new to both the forum and to fiat ownership so would appreciate some advice. We have just bought our son a 2001 Seicento Sporting. It was relatively cheap and has a few dings etc as expected on a 20-year-old car. However, two things concern me which I need some advice on please.

1. There is a knocking noise from the rear suspension, Having done a few searches on the forum this sounds like the rear trailing arm bushes which look like they need replacing? Although noisy are they an MOT fail?

2. More concerning maybe is the steering - it seems good/accurate but at low speeds although the front wheels are straight, the steering wheel seems to sag to the left? I read that the Seicento doesn’t have power steering but has electrically assisted steering?? Is this 'knackered'??

Any points in the right direction about what these might be & how to fix them much appreciated

Happy to be on the forum and keeping an old Fiat alive!!

Cheers

Rich

 

[varesecrazy]

Hi and welcome


The power steering IS electric.. it 'self.centres'... it may well be this is happening.. and you have a tracking issue


Rear suspension:

Yes if it has enough play to clonk.. it should get an MOT mention

Charlie

 

[RichT1]

Thanks Charlie

it seems to self centre but then sags about 1/2 a turn to the left. Tracking seems OK as it goes and stops in a straight line.....

How can I check the electric power steering for issues?

cheers

 

[varesecrazy]

Thanks Charlie

How can I check the electric power steering for issues?

cheers

To be honest..

Its a common failure point.. but..

IF you see the red steering wheel symbol on dash before starting engine..

But.. not when driving its basically sound


One thing that many small fiats suffer..
The big bearing at the top of the front damper can get dry and sticky... notchy steering isnt unusual

So its possible the spring tension ( twisted..) could be dragging things

 

[RichT1]

Thanks for reply.

Yes red light is on with ignition, but goes off when engine starts so hopefully okay. I’ll try and have a look at the suspension over the weekend.

Cheers

Rich

 

[Jamieboy]

Charlie has covered everything I would think of, so I am just here to say welcome to the forum Rich and congratulations on your acquisition of the Sei!