I’ve got a s reg fiat Punto and I have been trying to fix it a while can anyone help here is the list of the things wrong (and don’t say just buy a new car as its a bale out):


1. The thermostat light comes on all the time
2. The Fan doesn’t work
(Even though ive got a new one and put it in + the fuse is fine)
3. There are no other signs of a blown head gasket
(e.g there is no mayonnaise effect when checking the oil at the rocker)
4. There is no hot air at all coming through the heaters.
(Even after driving for a while).

Any help will be greatfull thanks

andy, December 2007

Hi, I'm not sure if the same advice could apply to my punto NOT heating up? I think it may be something to do with the blower as the heating does heat up but it does not blow out. I turn the heating up on full blast and it doesn't make a sound or blow out any air - could someone please help? I've been wearing a hat, scarf and gloves in my car as well as 2 thick coats. P.S. I've checked the fuse already!! Thnx

Grace, December 2007

I think these problems all stem from cooling problems - for which the Punto is notorious. I'd be surprised if the head gasket wasn't gone, actually. Anyway I'd replace the thermostat (at the end of the top hose) and also the fan switch which is often in the side of the radiator. Then, with new coolant in, I'd remove the top hose going into the heater radiator and make sure that there is water actually there - its dead easy to get an airlock - with the engine ticking over make sure that there is coolant in this hose. With the engine up to temperature both heater hoses should be very hot and the fan should cut in. To check for head gasket failure, run the engine with the radiator fill cap off - if you see bubbles or water gushes out there is a good chance that it has failed.

John, December 2007