1.4 MultiAir Actuator Failure
SeriousEngineThe "MultiAir" brick can fail if oil changes are missed or the wrong viscosity is used. This is a common and expensive failure.
Est. Repair Cost: £800–£1,500
Reliability GuideCommon Problems with the
Common Problems with the
2016 Fiat 124 Spider
The 2016 launch of the Fiat 124 Spider resurrected a classic nameplate, pairing a stylish Italian body and a turbocharged engine with the superb chassis of the Mazda MX-5. It offered a distinct, more relaxed touring character compared to its Japanese sibling.
What changed for 2016
- •Debut of the 124 Spider, based on the ND-generation Mazda MX-5 architecture.
- •Powered exclusively by Fiat's 1.4-litre MultiAir turbocharged engine.
Common MOT watch-outs
- !Corrosion on the exhaust system, particularly the backbox.
- !Wear on suspension components, though generally robust.
3
Known Issues
1
Serious
2
Moderate
0
Minor
All Known Issues
Parts availability and escalating costs
ModerateBodywork & RustWith 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.
Est. Repair Cost: £200–£10,000+
MultiAir oil drain-back when sitting unused
ModerateEngineIf 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.
Est. Repair Cost: £0–£500
Buying Tips for 2016 Fiat 124 Spider
- ✓The MultiAir engine is extremely sensitive to oil quality; a full, on-time service history is non-negotiable.
- ✓Check the convertible roof operation; it should be swift and lock securely without any excessive wind noise.