FIAT SEICENTO Buying Guide & Reliability (1999-2003)

FIAT SEICENTO Overview The FIAT Seicento is a compact city car that was produced between 1999 and 2003. With a total of 92 registration plates recorded, this model has become a popular choice for urban driving due to its small size and efficient fuel consumption.

Last updated September 07, 2025 1998 words Based on real UK vehicle data

FIAT SEICENTO Overview

FIAT SEICENTO Overview

The FIAT Seicento is a compact city car that was produced between 1999 and 2003. With a total of 92 registration plates recorded, this model has become a popular choice for urban driving due to its small size and efficient fuel consumption. The Seicento is exclusively powered by petrol, making it a straightforward option for those seeking a simple and economical vehicle.

In terms of performance, the Seicento has an MOT pass rate of 69.4%, indicating a reasonable level of reliability for a vehicle of its age. However, it is important to be aware of common failures that may arise. The most frequent issues reported include brakes (9 failures), followed by other categories such as body and structure (6 failures), and suspension (4 failures). These statistics highlight the importance of regular maintenance and checks.

The colour distribution of the FIAT Seicento shows a preference for blue, with 27 vehicles recorded in this shade, followed by black (20), red (15), yellow (14), and grey (11). This variety allows potential buyers to choose a model that suits their personal style.

Yearly distribution indicates that the majority of Seicento models are from 2002 (53 vehicles), followed by 2003 (21 vehicles), 2001 (17 vehicles), and just one from 1999. This suggests that the later models may be more readily available in the market.

Regarding tax status, 55 of the registered vehicles are untaxed, while 27 are declared SORN (Statutory Off Road Notification), and only 10 are currently taxed. This information may be relevant for prospective buyers considering the vehicle's on-road status.

Data accuracy is subject to change, and potential buyers should verify details before making any decisions.

Reliability and MOT Performance

The FIAT Seicento, produced between 1999 and 2003, has a total of 92 registered vehicles in the UK. With an overall MOT pass rate of 69.4%, this model demonstrates a moderate level of reliability. The data indicates that the Seicento has undergone a total of 1,315 MOT tests, reflecting its presence on the roads and the importance of regular vehicle checks.

When examining common failures during these tests, several categories emerge. The most frequent issue is related to brakes, accounting for 9 failures. Other notable categories include miscellaneous issues (7 failures), body and structure problems (6 failures), windscreen defects (5 failures), and suspension concerns (4 failures). These statistics highlight areas where potential buyers should exercise caution.

In terms of fuel type, all registered FIAT Seicento vehicles are petrol-powered, which is consistent with the model's design and market positioning. The average annual mileage for these vehicles stands at 4,892 miles, suggesting that many owners use the Seicento for shorter, urban journeys.

Colour distribution among the Seicento models shows a preference for blue, with 27 vehicles in this shade, followed by black (20), red (15), yellow (14), and grey (11). This variety may appeal to different aesthetic preferences among potential buyers.

Regarding tax status, a significant number of Seicento vehicles are currently untaxed (55), with 27 registered as SORN (Statutory Off Road Notification) and only 10 taxed. This could indicate that many owners may not be using their vehicles regularly or have opted to take them off the road.

While this data provides a snapshot of the FIAT Seicento's reliability and MOT performance, it is essential to consider that individual vehicle conditions may vary. Always consult a professional for specific assessments.

What to Check When Buying Used

When considering a used FIAT Seicento, there are several key factors to evaluate to ensure a sound purchase. With a total of 92 registration plates recorded, this model was produced between 1999 and 2003, making it essential to check the specific year of the vehicle you are interested in.

The MOT pass rate for the FIAT Seicento stands at 69.4%, indicating that a significant number of vehicles may have issues that need addressing. It is advisable to review the vehicle's MOT history for any recurring problems.

Common failures noted in MOT tests include brakes, which accounted for 9 failures, followed by other issues (7), body and structure (6), windscreen (5), and suspension (4). Pay particular attention to these areas during your inspection.

Fuel type distribution shows that all recorded FIAT Seicento models are petrol, which may influence your running costs and fuel efficiency considerations. Additionally, the average annual mileage for these vehicles is approximately 4,892 miles, which can provide insight into the vehicle's usage and wear.

In terms of colour, the most common shades are blue (27), black (20), and red (15), which may affect resale value and personal preference. Furthermore, it is important to note that 55 of the vehicles are untaxed, and 27 are declared SORN (Statutory Off Road Notification), which could indicate a lack of recent use or potential issues.

Lastly, always verify the vehicle's tax status and ensure it is compliant with local regulations. Remember, the data provided is based on available records and may not reflect the current condition of any specific vehicle. Always conduct a thorough inspection and consider obtaining a professional assessment before finalising your purchase.

Running Costs and Specifications

Running Costs and Specifications

The FIAT Seicento, produced between 1999 and 2003, is a compact city car that offers an economical choice for urban driving. With a total of 92 registration plates recorded, this model has a notable presence on UK roads.

In terms of running costs, the Seicento is primarily petrol-fuelled, with 100% of the vehicles in our data set using this fuel type. The average annual mileage for these vehicles is approximately 4,892 miles, which contributes to its reputation as a cost-effective option for daily commuting.

The MOT pass rate for the FIAT Seicento stands at 69.4%, indicating that while many vehicles pass their tests, there are common areas of concern. The most frequent failures are related to brakes (9 instances), followed by other issues (7), body and structure (6), windscreen (5), and suspension (4). These statistics highlight the importance of regular maintenance to ensure reliability.

When considering the vehicle's colour distribution, blue is the most popular choice, accounting for 27 of the registered models, followed by black (20), red (15), yellow (14), and grey (11). This variety allows potential buyers to select a model that suits their personal style.

In terms of tax status, the majority of Seicento vehicles are currently untaxed (55), with 27 registered as SORN (Statutory Off Road Notification) and only 10 vehicles taxed. This may reflect the age of the model and its appeal to budget-conscious drivers.

Overall, the FIAT Seicento presents a practical option for those seeking an affordable and efficient vehicle. However, prospective buyers should consider the common issues reported and ensure thorough checks are conducted before purchase.

Disclaimer: The data presented is based on available statistics and may not reflect the current state of all FIAT Seicento vehicles. Always verify details with a qualified professional.

Alternative Models to Consider

If you're considering the FIAT Seicento, there are several alternative models that may also meet your needs. The Seicento, produced between 1999 and 2003, has a total of 92 registration plates recorded, indicating a modest presence in the used car market.

One alternative to consider is the Ford Ka, which is known for its compact size and agile handling. Like the Seicento, the Ford Ka is a popular choice among city drivers and offers a similar fuel efficiency, making it an economical option for daily commuting.

Another model worth exploring is the Volkswagen Lupo. This small hatchback is praised for its build quality and reliability. With a slightly higher MOT pass rate than the Seicento's 69.4%, the Lupo may provide peace of mind for buyers concerned about maintenance issues.

In terms of common failures, the Seicento has reported issues primarily in the brakes (9 failures), followed by other categories such as body and structure (6 failures) and suspension (4 failures). If reliability is a key factor for you, the Lupo's reputation for durability could be a significant advantage.

For those interested in a more modern alternative, the Hyundai i10 is a great option. Launched in the mid-2000s, it offers updated features and improved safety ratings, making it a compelling choice for first-time buyers.

When considering alternatives, it's essential to evaluate factors such as annual mileage, which for the Seicento averages around 4,892 miles. This can help you gauge the vehicle's usage and potential wear and tear.

As always, ensure to conduct thorough research and inspections before making a purchase. The data provided here is based on available statistics and may not reflect the most current market conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

What years was the FIAT Seicento produced?

The FIAT Seicento was produced from 1999 to 2003, with a total of 92 registration plates recorded during this period.

What is the MOT pass rate for the FIAT Seicento?

The MOT pass rate for the FIAT Seicento stands at 69.4%. This indicates that a significant number of vehicles pass their MOT tests, although some may require attention to specific issues.

What are the common reasons for MOT failures?

Common failures for the FIAT Seicento include:

  • Brakes: 9 failures
  • Other: 7 failures
  • Body & Structure: 6 failures
  • Windscreen: 5 failures
  • Suspension: 4 failures

These categories highlight areas where owners may need to focus their maintenance efforts.

What fuel type does the FIAT Seicento use?

The FIAT Seicento is exclusively petrol-powered, with all recorded vehicles using this fuel type.

What colours are available for the FIAT Seicento?

The most common colours for the FIAT Seicento include:

  • Blue: 27
  • Black: 20
  • Red: 15
  • Yellow: 14
  • Grey: 11

This variety allows for personalisation among owners.

What is the average annual mileage for the FIAT Seicento?

The average annual mileage for the FIAT Seicento is approximately 4,892 miles, which is relatively low compared to many other vehicles.

What is the tax status distribution for the FIAT Seicento?

Out of the recorded vehicles, 55 are untaxed, 27 are SORN (Statutory Off Road Notification), and 10 are taxed. This distribution may reflect the vehicle's age and usage.

Disclaimer: The data presented is based on available statistics and may not reflect the current status of all vehicles. Always verify with official sources for the most accurate information.

Data Source: This guide is based on analysis of extensive UK vehicle database in our database, including MOT test results and DVLA records.

Disclaimer: This information is provided for guidance only and is based on historical data in our database. Always verify current vehicle details with official sources and get a professional inspection before purchase.

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