Fiat Misfortunes

Fiat Misfortunes

I thought your readers might be interested by this talc.

Whilst living in Leeds in August 1981, I took delivery of my first brand new use — a gold Fiat X19.

The one was delivered with many small faults — including broken fuel gauge, damaged rubber door trim, and a loose front wing indicator lamp. Although the appearance and handling of the car were very good, I was a bit disappointed.

Over the course of the next 12 months, I became more and more disillusioned with the car. The overall quality of finish was poor, service by the local main Fiat dealer was bad, and the engine was always filthy! The car developed several more faults — including a corroded rear brake caliper —sod on two occasions would not start.

I began to hate the car.

I was thinking of changing it when I had an accident. I lost control of the car on a corner at the top of Sutton Bank near Thirsk in Yorkshire. The car skidded, and the rear wheel his the kerb. The accident occurred at fairly low speed and I expected that the damaged wheel would need replacing.

The damage, however, was more severe. The whole car was twisted out of alignment. The insurance company decided to write the car off and provide me with a brand new replacement.

I arranged to sell this new gold X19 before having seen it. The car was delivered with one nave plate missing, ill-fitting bonnet and filthy engine. Without my having driven it, a Toyota dealer bought it from me, and I took delivery of a Toyota Corolla SR Coupe with which I am delighted.

The fmish of this car is without fault. Tunstall Dr. R. W. PICKWORTH