2005 Fiat Barchetta Exhibiting Engine Issues and Increased Fuel Consumption

Hey there, I totally get where you're coming from. Your symptoms sound all too familiar. I got a 2008 Fiat Punto, and she had a similar set of problems. Black smoke, rough running engine, high fuel consumption... and that exhaust smell, argghh! It takes you back, doesn't it? The trouble for me was indeed the fuel pressure regulator, just like you suspected for your Barchetta. She behaved a lot like yours, basically throwing a tantrum at idle and sometimes just giving up outta nowhere. Not the best feeling, eh? So the mechanic, what he did was change the fuel filter first as it's often the simplest place to start. But, you already did that and no luck, right? The pesky engine light was still on for me too, even after the filter change. Turns out, my fuel pressure regulator was the real issue, and after replacing it, things went back to normal. I won't sugarcoat it. This ain't usually a quick fix, so brace yourself for a bit of a wait. Thing is, it's necessary work, and it should sort your vehicle's issues. The bright side? Once it's done, she runs like a dream, and the fuel consumption drops back to something more sane. Hope this helps, and hang in there!

Hey! Sounds like you and your Punto had quite the whirlwind adventure! I did change the fuel filter, yeah, and still no joy. Funny how these cars always seem to throw the hardest problems at ya, isn't it? I'm fearing I’ll have to face the music with this fuel pressure regulator problem. Since you've got the first-hand experience, could you let me know how much did this damage your wallet? Just want an idea so I can brace myself for the worst. And did any other issues pop up after your repair or has she been cruising smooth ever since? Cheers in advance for your help!

Hey again, Ah, the mysterious case of the misbehaving Fiat, eh? I was in your shoes, scratching my head over the fuel filter not doing its magic. But don't worry, you're on the right track suspecting the fuel pressure regulator. That was indeed the culprit for my Punto. Now, about that burning question - yes, we're talking about the old wallet-hit. So fix-wise, after the filter fiasco, my mechanic decided to tackle that dodgy fuel pressure regulator. After replacing it, let’s just say things were much less smoky and more in tune with the purring we all love! Cost? Well, the final damage, including getting that blasted error entry sorted after the fuel filter change was 45.00 € - not sure what that's gonna look like in Oz dollars. But hey, considering she's been a smooth operator since then, I reckon it was money well spent! No more problems or surprises from my ol' Punto after the repair, touch wood. Stay strong. It's a bugger when things go wrong, but once sorted, you'll be back to enjoying your Barchetta in no time! Keep us posted on how you get on, ok? Cheers!

Hey again, Thanks for the words of encouragement and sharing your experience! Definitely not the news I wanted, but I guess it beats having smoky exhausts and a guzzling fuel tank. It's great to know that it resolved the issue for your Punto. 45.00 € is definitely a significant hit, but if it sets things right, well, I’m ready to bite the bullet. The good news is no more awful surprises after the repair, at least they weren't for you & your Punto. I'll get her in to see my mechanic and keep my fingers crossed. It seems like this is one job I won't be tackling myself! Will keep you all posted on how it unfolds. Thanks again for all the help!