Solving Black Smoke, Reduced Power, and Strong Exhaust Smell Issues in a 2010 Fiat Croma

Hey. Sure rings a bell! I had a similar issue with my 2012 Fiat Bravo (Diesel). Like your Croma, it started acting up, chucking out black smoke, less oomph, weird smells, and all. To be honest, I'm no car doctor, but I do know my way around the basics. Took it to my local workshop for a diagnostic test. Turned out one of the lambda sensors had kicked the bucket. Cost of the fix was a fair knock at 375 Euro, but hey, it solved the problem. Without the exact vehicle info, it's hard to say if it's the same issue, but from what you've shared, it could well be. Could you share more info on your car? Engine size, any mods, stuff like that? This will help me shed more light on the possible causes and fixes. Cheers!

Hey, thanks for the quick response! It’s good to hear from someone who’s been through the same thing. I've been pulling my hair out trying to figure this out. More details, sure. Well, my Croma's got a straightforward 4 cylinder 1.8L gasoline engine, all stock, nothing modded. She's clocked in about 80296 km and yeah, recently serviced. But the issues seemed to have started after that. Could be a coincidence, though. Or perhaps something got messed up during the service? Who knows. Any other thoughts on what might be causing the problem? Cheers!

Hey again. Good details – helps a lot in figuring out what could be the wrong. Given that it's a gasoline engine and all stock standard like my Bravo, I'd say it might be essentially the same case here. Those things you mentioned, the black smoke, engine light, drop in power and the peculiar smell are all too familiar, I tell ya. From my bit of car handling, it smells like a faulty lambda sensor, oxygen sensor, or even something a bit more tricky like the EGR valve. Also, the timing of the issue popping right after service raises a red flag. Could be a faulty part that was used, or something just wasn't correctly fitted – you know how it is - best intentions but things can, and do, go awry. There's no certain way to say as I'm not exactly "hands on" with your Croma but I'd definitely recommend getting the car checked for any of these. Sensor repairs do tend to run up a bit, as mine did (nearly took the wind outta my sails, it did!). But better that than a burnt out engine, right? I'd say take her to a specialist or a garage you trust. They should be able to diagnose the issue well. Cheers and good luck with it all. Keep us posted on how it all pans out!

Hey there! Your advice is absolutely invaluable. I really appreciate you taking the time to share your insights. I hadn't even considered the possibility of a faulty part from the recent service. With your suggestions in mind, I'll make sure the mechanics check the lambda sensor, O2 sensor, and EGR valve for faults. I'm actually due for another service soon, so fingers crossed we can sort this situation out. I'll definitely let you know how it goes. Cheers!