Fiat 124 Spider
Identical engine to the 312B4 in the 180 hp spec of the Abarth 695 — same strengths and weaknesses, sometimes more worn through exclusive use and frequent track sessions.
Turbo Roadster with Character
On MX-5 underpinnings, but with its own turbo character and Abarth sound. Turbo punch instead of high-rev feeling — if torque is your thing, this is the place.
Engine Weaknesses 4
The cylinder head gasket of the 695 T-Jet fails when the cooling system is neglected or the engine is overheated. The turbo housing and exhaust manifold can crack simultaneously.
Symptoms: Coolant loss, white exhaust cloud, CO₂ in coolant (sniff test positive)
In race use or extreme tuning, pistons can crack. The damage manifests as persistent misfires; forged pistons are recommended as an upgrade.
Symptoms: Persistent misfire cylinder 1, wet spark plug, blue smoke
The MTA gearbox of the 695 must be calibrated regularly and the hydraulic oil changed. If neglected, the clutch slips in 3rd and 4th gear.
Symptoms: Clutch slip when accelerating, late-engaging gearbox
For all T-Jet variants: spark plugs must be replaced every 30,000 km regardless of engine output. Neglect leads to misfires and power loss.
Symptoms: Power loss, misfires, increased consumption, rough engine running
Vehicle Weaknesses 14
The 1.4L MultiAir turbo will not start after standing for more than 4–6 weeks. Oil drains from the cylinder head; without oil pressure the system deactivates valve control.
A safety recall was issued for 2019 model year: the fuel pump impeller can deform and cause the pump to fail.
An official FCA recall affected 124 Spiders with automatic gearbox: faulty gearbox control software could engage 1st gear under certain conditions.
Early turbocharger failures have been documented on the 1.4L MultiAir Turbo, sometimes together with clutch problems below 50,000 km.
As part of the MultiAir no-start issue after storage, spark plugs become oil-fouled. Plugs must be cleaned or replaced before the engine will start again.
Brake pedal feel varies noticeably: sometimes bites immediately, sometimes only after long travel. Documented case: Brembo calipers fitted on the wrong sides; ABS unit replacement costs up to 1,930 Euro.
The 124 Spider's electric power steering vibrates on turn-in, especially on left turns. Causes range from alternator problems to suspension damage. Shared issue with Mazda MX-5 ND.
As a seasonal vehicle often parked for several weeks, the 124 Spider's battery discharges completely within 3–4 weeks. Incorrectly parked automatic vehicles keep infotainment permanently active.
The hood fabric detaches from its guide rail when closing, especially at the narrow sides near the rear window. Metal clips show wear marks.
The upper area of the front wings has an open slot with no protective mesh. Leaves and dirt accumulate there, retain moisture and cause rust.
Rubber bushings on the anti-roll bar and control arms wear out on the MX-5 platform, causing rattling and clunking. Affects both the Fiat 124 Spider and Mazda MX-5 ND equally.
The inner fabric layer of the soft-top detaches above the rear window and sags down. Metal end caps break from their anchors; the hood intermittently won't open. Known MX-5 ND platform issue.
The 124 Spider's AC compressor will not engage when refrigerant level is too low. In the tight roadster cabin this is especially noticeable.
The standard MZD infotainment shuts off instantly when the engine is switched off, with no delay. Touchscreen does not respond while driving.
Reports & Tests
56 owner complaints filed with NHTSA (2016–2019). Most reported: Airbags (22), Electrical (8), Seat Belts (8).