The Fiat Ducato 2.3 multijet model is the basis for motorhome conversions in Europe. It is the same as Peugeot Boxer or Citroen Relay. Nonetheless, the Fiat Ducato 2.3 multijet engine also comes with some issues that interested individuals should know about. So, what are the Fiat Ducato multijet engine problems?
Common problems with the Fiat Ducato 2.3 multijet engine are a surging engine, clogged EGR system, engine overheating, and failing fuel injectors. Note that the Fiat Ducato 2.3 multijet engine is one of the most complained about Ducato engines.
More about Fiat Ducato problems.
What are the common problems with Fiat Ducato 2.3 multijet engine?
Surging engine
This is one of the most complained about Fiat Ducato 2.3 multijet engine problem. Most users have reported that the engine surges and dies and won’t respond when pressing the accelerator pedal. As a result, your car may start to jerk, run rough, or even buck.
Besides, most engine surges are caused by a lack of enough fuel due to fuel pressure. To fix this problem, you will have to diagnose the car and find out the problem. Regardless, most professional mechanics have discovered that the Fiat Ducato 2.3 multijet engine surges are caused by a faulty high-pressure fuel pump press regulator.
So, you will have to replace the bad regulator this fix this issue. When you replace the regulator, you will have to ensure that proper lubrication is applied.
Engine overheating
The cooling system of the engine is very important as it gets rid of excess heat from the engine, maintains the engine operating temperature, and brings up the engine to the ideal temperature. Therefore, if one of the parts of the engine is not functioning well, the engine won’t function properly and may overheat.
One of the things that cause the Fiat Ducato 2.3 multijet engine to overheat is a coolant leak into the coolant temperature sensor. This can only be detected by performing a diagnostic tool. If you test and discover that the coolant has leaked into the sensor, the sensor will have to be replaced.
On top of that, the cooling system will also have to be partially drained to fix the problem.
Clogged EGR system
The exhaust gas re-circulation or EGR links the intake manifold to the exhaust manifold. Additionally, it helps to control the flow of exhaust gas being recirculated depending on the engine load. Nevertheless, this part also becomes faulty after some time on the Fiat 2.3 multijet engine.
If you start to notice poor performance, rough idle, sputter, more emissions, frequent stalls, and knocking sounds, this is a sign that your EGR system is not good. It can be a bad EGR valve or a clogged EGR system. In this case, a clogged EGR is the likely cause of the problem.
To get rid of any doubt, you will have to take your car to a professional mechanic for diagnosis. If it’s a clogged EGR system, the mechanic will have to clean it and the issue will be fixed. It is important to take your car for inspection and service to avoid such issues.
Failing fuel injectors
Another problem that Fiat Ducato 2.3 multijet users have reported is failing fuel injectors. Normally, this issue is caused by a dirty air filter or clogged fuel filter. Fuel injectors are in charge of atomizing ad injecting fuel into an internal combustion engine.
Therefore, if the fuel injector is failing, it will disrupt the fuel supply, causing the engine to misfire and other issues. Additionally, signs of a bad fuel injector are bad fuel economy, engine stalls or idles, and engine vibrations.
Before you fix the fuel injectors, you should diagnose and find out the real problem. If the fuel injectors are bad or damaged, you should replace them. Nonetheless, you should also check the fuel filters and replace them if they are faulty.
FAQ
Is the Fiat Ducato 2.3 multijet engine reliable?
Yes, the Fiat Ducato 2.3 multijet engine is pretty reliable. Most reliability agencies have given it above-average reliability. However, some Ducato engines like the 2.2-liter engine are more reliable. Besides, the 2.3-liter engine is one of the most complained about Fiat Ducato engines. Overall, it still performs way better than most of its rivals.
How long does the Fiat Ducato 2.3 multijet engine last?
While most vans do not last as long as most cars, the Fiat Ducato is well-made to last long. So, if this car is well taken care of, it can clock more than 200,000 miles. However, this will also depend on the climate and the driving habits of the user.
What are the common problems with the Fiat Ducato?
Aside from having engine issues, the Fiat Ducato has also registered other problems. Common problems with Fiat Ducato are oil pressure problems, power steering heavy, suspension problems, transmission issues, electrical problems, faulty steering systems, and faulty spare wheels. But with good maintenance and care, most of these issues can be averted.
Is it expensive to fix the Fiat Ducato 2.3 multijet engine?
Yes, fixing the Fiat Ducato 2.3 multijet engine can be quite expensive. This is because it develops several issues and it’s not so reliable. On top of that, the cost of spare parts and service is also on the higher side. For instance, the cost of replacing a Fiat Ducato timing belt is around $500 to $1,500 depending on the model year.
Which cars are similar to the Fiat Ducato?
The Fiat Ducato may be a very popular van in Europe, but it also faces a lot of competition. Some of the closest competitors of the Fiat Ducato are vans that share the same platform. Some of them include the Peugeot Boxer, Citroen Relay, Alfa Romeo AR6, Ram ProMaster, and Vauxhall Movano.
Final thoughts
The Fiat Ducato 2.3 multijet engine may be very popular in the market, but it also comes with multiple problems. However, when maintained properly, the user of this exceptional van can avoid most of the problems. Besides, the 2.3 multijet engine is reliable and durable, and with good performance.
