Tailhappy

That does sound like its working as it should. The clutch does have some friction as it has to be ready to engage instantly and supply a substantial amount of force (especially when glow plugs are on). However this pulley is a known failure point which when it does fail really stresses the entire auxiliary belt system. So if you were to replace it (not a difficult job but need an impact drill and the special tool) you will be more confident that your system is not likely to fail between auxiliary belt replacement intervals.

I'm not quite sure what you mean by the clutch but the alternator should (when the engine is turned off from idle) spin down over several seconds and start instantly when the engine starts again. The freewheel bites 100% in one direction and is easy to turn (with alternator internally stalled) by fingers the other.

Just to add, check your alternator clutch. When mine jammed solid it wore out the tensioner.

Sounds good. Im getting the feeling that the need to keep updating and spending isn't felt by many here who actually care enough about cars and driving to join a forum. Thinking back none of the people who commented why haven't I bought a new one yet were that interested in motors.

I note similar in Hertfordshire. I never see any older BMW or larger Vauxhall either but plenty of 04 Honda Jazz and the like. The oldest BMW i see is a dumped 07 plate with flat tyres. Seems incredible to me that such expensive cars are not looked after. In Dorset there are lots more older small cars still. Mk1 Fabia everywhere all looking well. Some Mk2 as well. My Dad's 05 Elegance had a 1.2 HTP join it in Lyme Regis a few weeks back.

Thanks. 110k so far. I was driving yesterday and was still impressed how smooth and tight it felt. If it needs something doing I get it done no quibbles. I have noted that its the newer cars that are getting pampered by mobile cleaning vans and owners jet washing on a weekend but the 15+ years old cars that actually need it are left all tatty with dust and litter inside. It should be the older cars that get the attention surely?

Brilliant. Good to hear.

This month I am quite proud because my Fabia has just reached 20 years old. I mentioned this to a friend and his reply was 'isn't it time for a new one then'. This sentiment has also been heard in different forms from neighbours, family and, colleagues and the dealer I bought it off (they did finally gave up). Honestly though I'm happy as the day I bought it (was 3 years old) and keep it clean and maintained. But it's like from reactions I'm doing something wrong and I end up having to explain why I haven't bought something newer. My only explanation is I'm happy with it still so why change but they are unconvinced. What's your thoughts? Is running a car and keeping it clean / maintained for as long as possible so odd? Genuinely interested.

Thank you 👍

Thank you for your information. It will prove useful. I'll add to this post when I get going on the job.

Thank you. That's really appreciated.

Just to add do check the servo hose to back of throttle body for even tiny cracks. If air is drawn in at all the throttle won't open properly and power is right down. If the pipe comes off the throttle doesn't move at all!

Can you not hold off for a better door? I'm wondering if buying a cheap Fabia for parts (in the right colour) may be an option. Take off everything you need and verify it works before removal. Just a thought.

Agree on repair. Latest cars are designed for leasing, not owning. Old Fabia is a great owners car - they don't make them like that any longer. As to Electric, I'm interested too but way too many issues at the moment in my opinion.

Glad to help. Give the pipe a clean with meths or similar of a rag and check for cracks. Silicone tape really is amazing stuff!