Fiat Multipla Problems: Common Issues and Repair Costs
The Fiat Multipla is one of the most practical and unusual MPVs ever made. With its six-seat layout and compact size, it became a favourite for families who needed space without a full-size van. But like most older Fiats, it comes with its fair share of mechanical and electrical problems. If you own or are thinking about buying a Fiat Multipla, here’s a proper breakdown of the most common faults and what they actually cost to fix in the UK.
1. Suspension and Rear Axle Problems
What goes wrong
The Multipla’s suspension wears out with age, especially if it’s been carrying passengers or heavy loads. Rear axle bushes wear out, front shocks go soft and you might hear knocking noises or feel vague handling.
Cost to fix
Rear axle bushes: £250 to £400
Front wishbones or shocks: £120 to £180 per side
Full suspension refresh: £500 to £800 depending on condition
2. EGR Valve Problems on Diesel Models
What goes wrong
If you’ve got the 1.9 JTD diesel, carbon can clog the EGR valve. This leads to sluggish acceleration, black smoke and a warning light on the dash.
Cost to fix
Cleaning or replacing the EGR valve costs between £200 and £350, including diagnostics and reset.
3. Electrical Gremlins and Warning Lights
What goes wrong
The dashboard can show false ABS, airbag or engine lights. This is usually due to worn sensors, dodgy earth wires or water getting into connectors.
Cost to fix
Diagnostics: £60 to £90
Sensor or wiring repair: £100 to £180
Fusebox or loom repair: up to £300 if it’s a bigger job
4. Gearbox and Clutch Issues
What goes wrong
Gear selection problems and worn clutches are common, especially in high-mileage diesels. You may notice crunching into gear or a high clutch bite point.
Cost to fix
Clutch replacement: £450 to £650
Used or reconditioned gearbox: £500 to £800
Gear linkage repair: £100 to £180
5. Cooling System and Head Gasket Faults
What goes wrong
Petrol engines like the 1.6 can overheat if coolant levels are ignored, leading to head gasket failure. Leaks can also occur at the water pump or thermostat housing.
Cost to fix
Head gasket repair: £400 to £600
Water pump or thermostat replacement: £150 to £250
6. Seat Mechanism and Interior Trim Problems
What goes wrong
Seat handles can break, seat frames bend and interior trim becomes loose or rattly. It’s mostly wear and tear from age and daily use.
Cost to fix
Small interior fixes: £50 to £100
Seat frame replacement or welding: £120 to £200
7. Steering Motor or Rack Failure
What goes wrong
The Multipla can lose steering assistance if the electric motor fails or if the power steering rack wears out. You might notice the steering going heavy or whining noises when turning.
Cost to fix
Electric steering motor: £300 to £500
Hydraulic rack or pump replacement: £500 to £800
8. Central Locking and Window Motor Faults
What goes wrong
Doors may stop locking, windows may jam or stop working altogether. Usually it’s the motor or worn wiring inside the door.
Cost to fix
Window regulator or motor: £100 to £150 per door
Central locking actuator or wiring fix: £80 to £140
9. Exhaust and Bracket Corrosion
What goes wrong
The backbox and mounting brackets often rust on older Multiplas. You might hear rattling, or the exhaust may start blowing near the joints.
Cost to fix
Backbox: £100 to £180
Brackets or mounts: £40 to £70
10. Heater Fan and Matrix Faults
What goes wrong
If your interior fan only works on one speed or stops completely, the resistor has likely failed. A leaking heater matrix can also cause coolant loss or steamy windows.
Cost to fix
Heater resistor: £60 to £90
Heater matrix: £200 to £300 including labour
Fiat Multipla Repair Cost Summary
| Problem | Estimated Repair Cost |
|---|---|
| Suspension and rear axle | £120 to £800 |
| Diesel EGR valve issue | £200 to £350 |
| Electrical and warning lights | £60 to £300 |
| Clutch or gearbox replacement | £450 to £800 |
| Cooling or head gasket repair | £150 to £600 |
| Interior and seat frame repair | £50 to £200 |
| Power steering fix | £300 to £800 |
| Central locking or windows | £80 to £150 per door |
| Exhaust repair or replacement | £40 to £180 |
| Heater fan or matrix replacement | £60 to £300 |
Final Advice
The Fiat Multipla is practical, affordable and unique, but it’s definitely a car that needs proper care as it gets older. Suspension, steering and electrical faults are the most common issues you’ll come across. Most repairs are manageable, but be prepared for some labour costs on interior or cooling system jobs.
If you’re thinking of buying a used Multipla, especially one that’s been sitting or used heavily, get a professional inspection from CAREXAMER. It can spot major rust, wiring faults or engine issues before they turn into expensive repairs.
Buying a used VW. Buying used vauxhall, BMW, Jaguar, Ford, Volvo, Range rover, Bentley, Aston Martin, Porsche, Ferrari, Lamborghini, Maserati, Hyundai, Tesla, Honda, Pagani