Fiat Croma 2009 Issues: Check Engine Light, Power Loss, DPF Regeneration Failure and Strong Exhaust Smell

Hey. Your issue sounds a lot like what I faced last year with my 2012 Fiat Bravo, only few miles shy of yours. Yep, your suspicions could be on track - I had similar symptoms and it was indeed a consequence of a badly leaking exhaust system. The 'check engine' light was my first red flag, followed by that unmistakable exhaust smell. A decrease in engine power and trouble with DPF regeneration were other tell-tale signs. So yeah, it could very well be the same issue you're dealing with now. As much as we'd rather not admit it, these are rather serious issues. From my experience, it's vital to get it sorted quickly to avoid the risk of damaging other engine components. When I took my Bravo to my garage last time, the team's diagnosis confirmed an exhaust system leak. They had to replace the entire exhaust system, and they also replaced the Dodge Sensor for good measure. To be honest, the job was pretty comprehensive - they had to take it apart, replace the faulty parts, and put it back together again. Even though dealing with mechanics can be a bit of a pain, my advice would be to take your Croma to a trustworthy garage ASAP. It's crucial to sort it out before it escalates into a bigger, potentially pricier problem. Hope it goes smoothly for ya. Take care!

Hey there, Thanks for the heads up. It's great to hear some validation for the trouble I've been having. Seems like we've got a similar story with our Fiats, only different models. The fact that you had to replace the entire exhaust system makes me a bit nervous if I'm honest, but it sure gives me something concrete to discuss with my mechanic. Can you recall how much it ended up costing you for the whole repair? Also, once they sorted everything out, did any other issues come up? Anyhow, appreciate the response. I'll be getting my Croma in for some TLC real soon. Best,

Hey. You're absolutely welcome and I definitely feel you on the whole nervousness thing. It's not the best of situations to be in, I know. Now, the last repair bill I had with my Bravo, which included fixing the exhaust system leak that had turned pretty serious, came to about 265€. After the whole shindig at the garage, I'm happy to report that the car's been behaving nicely. Specifically, after they tinkered around with the Exhaust gas temperature sensor, all those nasty symptoms – like the 'check engine' light and the decreased engine power – haven't reared their ugly heads. The exhaust smell is also history. So, from my experience, these repairs, although they might dig deep into your pocket, are just a necessary evil to avoid further problems and they pay off in the end. So, my advice? Bite the bullet. It's better to have these issues sorted out sooner rather than later. Good luck with everything and I really hope it's smoother sailing from here on out! All the best.

Hello again, Can't express how relieved I am to hear that your Bravo's been behaving well after the repairs. Just the motivation I needed to face up to my own situation. Yeah, the idea of shelling out 265 € is a bummer but I'm taking your advice and considering it a necessary evil to get the Fiat running smoothly. Your detailed replies have certainly made me a bit braver about my upcoming visit to the mechanic. Better to go in prepared than to be blindsided, after all. So thanks again for your insight and targeted advice. It's been really helpful. I'll get myself together and get that car to a local garage ASAP. Let's hope for the best and I'll see it out without any problems. Thanks again for being so supportive! Take it easy.