Reliability Guide

Common Problems with the
2017 Fiat 124 Spider

We've identified 3 known issues that can affect the 2017 Fiat 124 Spider. 1 of these are serious faults that could be expensive to repair.

3
Known Issues
1
Serious
2
Moderate
0
Minor

All Known Issues

1.4 MultiAir Actuator Failure

SeriousEngine

The "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
Warning Signs:

Engine misfire, Limp mode, Severe loss of power

What to Inspect:
  • Listen for a smooth idle
  • Check service receipts for correct oil specs
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Parts availability and escalating costs

ModerateBodywork & Rust

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.

Est. Repair Cost: £200–£10,000+
Warning Signs:

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

What to Inspect:
  • Ask the dealer to check part availability before buying
  • Check for any previous accident repair history
  • Verify key fob condition and whether a spare exists
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MultiAir oil drain-back when sitting unused

ModerateEngine

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.

Est. Repair Cost: £0–£500
Warning Signs:

Engine cranks but will not start after extended storage, Rough idle on first start-up, Misfire immediately after sitting unused

What to Inspect:
  • Ask whether the car has been stored or sat unused for long periods
  • Start it from cold and listen for a smooth idle
  • Check for any MultiAir unit replacement invoices
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Buying Tips for 2017 Fiat 124 Spider

  • ✓Check for a full service history with the correct Selenia oil to protect the MultiAir unit.
  • ✓Inspect the convertible top for wear around the friction points.
  • ✓Check for signs of water ingress in the footwells (blocked drain holes).