Fiat 124 Spider Common Problems & Reliability
The Fiat 124 Spider, produced from 2016 to 2019, represents a stylish and highly successful collaboration between Fiat and Mazda, effectively combining legendary Japanese build quality with Italian mechanical flair. Built alongside the Mazda MX-5 in Hiroshima, it utilized the same lightweight chassis and high-quality interior but introduced its own distinctive retro styling and Fiat’s charismatic 1.4-litre MultiAir turbocharged engine. In the UK, it has establishment itself as a more relaxed, "boulevard-cruiser" alternative to the more frantic MX-5, prized for its classic design and the effortless mid-range torque of its turbocharged powerplant. Reliability for the 124 Spider is generally excellent, reflecting its Mazda-sourced foundations, but there are specific engine and interior themes that used buyers must investigate. The 1.4L MultiAir engine is fundamentally robust but requires strict adherence to the correct Selenia oil grade and frequent change intervals to protect the complex MultiAir actuator. Additionally, early models (2017–2018) were subject to reports of thermostat failures and minor coolant weeps from the water pump. A common minor annoyance involves the 7-inch infotainment screen, which can suffer from "spider-webbing" or delamination, leading to a cloudy appearance or ghost touches. When buying a used 124 Spider in the UK, the focus should be on maintenance history and verifying that all preventative updates have been applied. Prospective owners should carefully check the convertible top fabric for rubbing marks against the roll hoop covers—a common issue if not addressed—and verify that the infotainment screen is clear and responsive. It is also vital to check the underside for early signs of surface rust on the subframes, as UK road salt can be harsh on these lightweight cars. For those seeking maximum performance, the Abarth 124 model offers a more aggressive suspension setup and a louder exhaust note, though the standard Fiat version remains the better choice for everyday comfort and refined cruising.
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Detailed fault breakdown, symptoms, and estimated repair bills by production year.
Most Common Fiat 124 Spider Faults & Repair Costs
1.4 MultiAir Actuator Failure
The "MultiAir" brick can fail if oil changes are missed or the wrong viscosity is used. This is a common and expensive failure.
Engine misfire, Limp mode, Severe loss of power
Parts availability and escalating costs
With production ceased and the Mazda-Fiat partnership ended, 124 Spider-specific parts are becoming scarce and expensive. Body panels (especially aluminium items), windscreens, key fobs and even the bonnet pedestrian-safety actuators can be on backorder for months. Some cars have been written off due to parts being unavailable for minor accident repairs.
Long wait times for replacement parts, Dealer unable to source 124-specific components, Very high quotes for bodywork repairs, Key fob replacement discontinued in some markets
MultiAir oil drain-back when sitting unused
If the 1.4 MultiAir engine sits unused for several months, oil can drain from the hydraulic MultiAir unit ("the brick"), affecting the valve train and preventing the engine from starting due to lack of compression. The fix is usually to crank it until the unit re-primes, but repeated occurrences can damage the unit.
Engine cranks but will not start after extended storage, Rough idle on first start-up, Misfire immediately after sitting unused
Buying a used Fiat 124 Spider? Always check for hidden finance and write-off history.
Mechanical problems are only half the battle. Over 1 in 3 UK used cars checked have unpaid finance or accident write-off records that could cause you to lose the car or thousands in value.