General Recommendations for a Fiat 500 specialist garage near Slough / Uxbridge / Amersham

[Tulip]

Hello,
I'm new to the forum, so hope I'm posting in the correct area.

Could anyone recommend a Fiat 500 specialist in the Slough/Denham/Amersham area. We are planning to purchase a 2014-16 500 Lounge 1.2 and want to make sure it's in good shape (mechanically). Reading the forum, it seems that preventative maintenance around the engine earth strap and exhaust clamps is advised.

Thanks in advance.

 

[jrkitching]

Hello and welcome to the forum.

I'd agree that getting an independent prepurchase inspection is a good idea. Someone more local to you might be able to advise on a good independent Fiat garage.

The 1.2 engine is basically bulletproof unless run low on coolant, but there are a few areas worth checking for corrosion, and any electrical gremlins would be a red flag. Replacing the engine earth strap and front exhaust clamp are both sensible preventitive maintenance items on a 10yr old 500. Check also the date when the cambelt was last changed; if it's more than 4yrs ago, or the date can't be positively verified, then factor in about £400 to have this done as soon as possible after purchase.

Are you considering a manual or a dualogic (automatic)?

 

[Tulip]

Hello and welcome to the forum.

I'd agree that getting an independent prepurchase inspection is a good idea. Someone more local to you might be able to advise on a good independent Fiat garage.

The 1.2 engine is basically bulletproof unless run low on coolant, but there are a few areas worth checking for corrosion, and any electrical gremlins would be a red flag. Replacing the engine earth strap and front exhaust clamp are both sensible preventitive maintenance items on a 10yr old 500. Check also the date when the cambelt was last changed; if it's more than 4yrs ago, or the date can't be positively verified, then factor in about £400 to have this done as soon as possible after purchase.

Are you considering a manual or a dualogic (automatic)?

Thank you.
A manual.

 

[rmjbn1]

Hello fellow Sluggite

Manual 1.2 is an excellent choice, mechanically tough little things, as long as it's been maintained.

Not specifically modern Fiats, but...

I know an excellent ex-Lancia mechanic in Amersham, been a few years since I was in the area, but might be worth a try.
Michael Murdoch 07831230052

My only other recommendation in the area would by Roberts MG in Old Windsor (not Fiat, but top old school mechanic). Details are in the Garages section:

Roberts MGs

www.fiatforum.com

 

[varesecrazy]

Hello,
I'm new to the forum, so hope I'm posting in the correct area.

Could anyone recommend a Fiat 500 specialist in the Slough/Denham/Amersham area. We are planning to purchase a 2014-16 500 Lounge 1.2 and want to make sure it's in good shape (mechanically). Reading the forum, it seems that preventative maintenance around the engine earth strap and exhaust clamps is advised.

Thanks in advance.

I bought my 1.2 500 from a Supermarket, with a 5 week guarantee

I did the fundamentals while viewing,

But to get value from the money I had spent I got the garage (family run) that does all my MOT'S, To service it (just oil and filters) and to have a good look around whilst in the air / accessing awkward areas

In the last 3.5 years and 30k I've found Zero issues. So @£120 well spent

I've worn out front Tyres and Brakes, and changed the battery for a Brand new 4 year guarantee model less than £100

Most Garages see LOTS of 500s and Pandas so know exactly where to look

I don't think you need "a specialist"

PS - you haven't mentioned Rusty Sumps..

 

[jrkitching]

A manual.

Good call.

The automatics are prone to be troublesome in later life, and best avoided unless buying new or very nearly new.

 

[Tulip]

I bought my 1.2 500 from a Supermarket, with a 5 week guarantee

I did the fundamentals while viewing,

But to get value from the money I had spent I got the garage (family run) that does all my MOT'S, To service it (just oil and filters) and to have a good look around whilst in the air / accessing awkward areas

In the last 3.5 years and 30k I've found Zero issues. So @£120 well spent

I've worn out front Tyres and Brakes, and changed the battery for a Brand new 4 year guarantee model less than £100

Most Garages see LOTS of 500s and Pandas so know exactly where to look

I don't think you need "a specialist"

PS - you haven't mentioned Rusty Sumps..

Thank you.

Unlike VW for example, I haven't been able to find a specialist locally, so may be you are right that I don't need a specialist.

 

[varesecrazy]

Thank you.

Unlike VW for example, I haven't been able to find a specialist locally, so may be you are right that I don't need a specialist.

Do you have an established relationship with a garage?

I don't tend to use garages,
but if you have a Non. Franchise place you have servicing/ work carried out they are probably a great start

 

[Tulip]

Do you have an established relationship with a garage?

I don't tend to use garages,
but if you have a Non. Franchise place you have servicing/ work carried out they are probably a great start

VW specialist ... all they do is VW, and they are good at it ...

 

[varesecrazy]

VW specialist ... all they do is VW, and they are good at it ...

FYI the Ford KA was built in the same Polish factory as the 500 and Panda, same 1. 2 FIAT engine

Don't suppose there are many mundane. "ford specialists" though..