Fiat Panda reliability
The Fiat Panda fails its MOT about as often as most cars over 10 years old: 41.7% of 54,350 tests failed in 2023, against 39.7% on average.
15 DVSA recalls for the Fiat Panda
Most cover a batch of cars built in a set period, and dealers fix them free. Sweep’s check shows the recalls for a car’s age and whether the DVSA has one outstanding.
Incorrect information on the registration document and CoC (certificate of Conformity)
On affected vehicles incorrect data has been entered on the registration document and correspondingly the Certificate of Conformity (CoC).
Fix: The registration document must be amended and a new CoC issued.
Recalled models: PANDA · 486 vehicles
Reverse gear switch not functioning as intended.
On affected vehicles the reversing gear switch is not according to specification. This could result in a failure to illuminate the rear light of the vehicle during a reversing manoeuvre.
Fix: Check the reversing gear switch and replacement if required
Recalled models: PANDA · 90 vehicles
Side airbag/head airbag crash sensor not correctly connected
Affected vehicles fitted with the side airbag/head airbag may not have the side crash sensor connected correctly which may in a worst-case scenario result in non-deployment of the airbag in a side impact/crash.
Fix: To check the correct engagement/connection of the side crash sensor.
Recalled models: PANDA · 197 vehicles
Non-conformity of the height adjustment mechanism of the steering column
The steering column height adjustment mechanism could accidentally release.
Fix: Replace the steering column mechanism.
Recalled models: PANDA · 25 vehicles
Engine suspension reaction bracket not fitted on the transmission side
Some vehicles were assembled without the engine suspension reaction bracket fitted on the transmission side. The vehicles must be repaired by fitting the missing components (transmission reaction bracket and washer). The defect can be detected by noise and vibration being emitted from the front area of the vehicle. If ignored a possible consequence is a failed differential box resulting in oil leakage and in some cases the drive shaft could become disengaged and drop below the vehicle whilst in motion.
Fix: Fit the missing components (transmission reaction bracket and washer).
Recalled models: PANDA · 134 vehicles
Transmission mount may fail
It has been identified that due to a nonconformity in the transmission casing mount material there is a possibility that the casting may fail. This may affect the control of the vehicle.
Fix: Recall all affected vehicles to check and if required replace the mounting with new quality assured item.
Recalled models: PANDA · 7 vehicles
Headlights may fail
In some circumstances the headlights can switch off without warning which will increase the risk of an accident.
Fix: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected and update the Body Computer with new improved software.
Recalled models: PANDA · 8,091 vehicles
Front seatbelts may not function as intended
It has been identified that the front seatbelt anchorage links may not have been manufactured to the correct specification. If the link is subjected to an abnormal force then it may not perform as required.
Fix: Recall all the affected vehicles to check the link and if required replace it.
Recalled models: PANDA · 1,041 vehicles
Loss of steering control
The upper fork on the steering shaft fork may not have been correctly fixed/'staked' onto the shaft. This may cause a knock from the steering and in extreme cases the fork may separate from the shaft and result in loss of steering control.
Fix: To check the shaft for the presence of the 2 'Stake' markings.
Recalled models: PANDA · 544 vehicles
Loss of steering control
The steering column upper shaft fixing bolt may not have had thread locking agent applied to it during assembly. This may allow it to come loose causing a noise. In extreme cases this may result in a loss of steering control.
Fix: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected to check and where necessary fit a bolt affixed with pre applied locking compound.
Recalled models: PANDA · 47 vehicles
Possibility of fire
There is a possibility of a short circuit in the ABS control unit due to infiltration of chemical solutions.
Fix: Recall affected vehicles and replace ABS module with modified type which is also fitted with plastic cover
Recalled models: PANDA · 25,977 vehicles
Fuel may leak
There is a possibility that fuel may leak from a faulty recirculation pipe connector.
Fix: Recall affected vehicles to check and if required change pipe.
Recalled models: PANDA · 15 vehicles
Brakes may fail
Due to the possibility of a fault in the production process the flexible rubber brake hoses may not have been correctly vulcanised. As a consequence may partially or totally restrict the internal flow of the brake hydraulic fluid. Should this happen a reduction in efficiency during braking would occur.
Fix: Recalled vehicles will have the hoses checked to identify if they are within the affected batch. If this is the case they will be replaced with quality assured items.
Recalled models: PANDA · 4,804 vehicles
Fuel may leak
Fuel delivery pipe adjacent to air filter may chafe. This in time could lead to leakage of fuel in the engine compartment and a consequent risk of fire.
Fix: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected to replace the fuel delivery pipe and where necessary replace the pipe containment channel.
Recalled models: PANDA · 919 vehicles
Engine power may be lost
It is possible that breakage of the ancillary devices pulley on the crankshaft may occur. Should this happen there is the possibility that engine power and functions such as power assisted steering and braking assistance may be lost.
Fix: Recalled vehicles will have the crankshaft pulley inspected and changed should this be necessary.
Recalled models: PANDA · 1,474 vehicles
Checking a Fiat Panda before you buy
Look at the parts above at the viewing, and read the car’s own MOT history: advisories for the same parts suggest the problem is already starting. Sweep’s free check shows every MOT, advisory and mileage reading for a registration.