Fiat 124 spider problems
The Fiat 124 Spider (Type 348), is a front-engine, rear-drive, two-passenger roadster manufactured by Mazda for FCA over a single generation. The 124 debuted at the 2015 LA Auto Show for model year 2016, with production reaching just over 41,000 for model years 2016-2020.
Largely based on the fourth-generation Mazda MX-5 roadster, and manufactured alongside the MX-5 at Mazda's Hiroshima plant, the 124 shares its platform, mechanicals, interior and top mechanism with the MX-5 — it is distinguished by an FCA engineered and manufactured turbocharged Multiair engine, uniquely tuned shock absorbers, unique exterior styling and nominally increased length and cargo capacity over the MX-5.
The 124 nameplate and exterior styling details recall the Pininfarina-designed Fiat 124 Sport Spider, manufactured from 1966 to 1985.
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Fiat 124 spider model years
Common Fiat 124 spider problems
Based on the complaints from owners of the Fiat 124 Spider, several common problems have been identified:
- Electrical and Interior Trim: Some owners have experienced issues with non-engine electrics and interior trim. These problems, as reported in the reliability survey, were not always covered under warranty. It is essential to pay attention to the functionality of the electrical components and the quality of the interior trim to ensure a satisfactory ownership experience.
- Alloy Wheel Damage: Fiat 124 Spider models with larger 17-inch wheels, particularly in mid-range Lusso spec and above, are more susceptible to kerb damage. Owners should inspect the alloy wheels for any signs of damage, as repairing or replacing these wheels can be costly.
- Stability Control and Driving Enthusiasm: While the Fiat 124 Spider comes equipped with stability control to aid in preventing loss of control, it is still a sports car that encourages enthusiastic driving. Owners should be mindful of driving habits to avoid potential issues related to aggressive driving, such as poor panel fit or bodywork damage.
By addressing these common problems, Fiat 124 Spider owners can better understand the potential issues they may encounter and take proactive measures to maintain the performance and reliability of their vehicles.
Are Fiat 124 Spiders reliable?
While the Fiat 124 Spider has a bad reputation for reliability in some markets, we have heard few complaints from owners.
Is the Fiat 124 Spider expensive to maintain?
The average annual repair cost for a Fiat is $538, which means it has above average ownership costs. The other factors that contribute to Fiat reliability include an average of 0.2 visits to a repair shop per year and a 17% probability of a repair being severe.
Does a Fiat 124 Spider require premium gas?
Only refuel with unleaded gasoline with a recommended rating of 91 octane.
What is the life expectancy of a Fiat Spider?
They're designed in a way that allows them to do the most for drivers. According to enginepatrol.com, the best Fiat models will last 200,000 - 250,000 miles if cared for properly.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Fiat 124 spider years
We have researched Fiat problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Fiat 124 spider cars and compiled the top 3 most problematic Fiat 124 spider model years:
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Fiat 124 spider model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Fiat 124 spider years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Fiat 124 spider car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Fiat 124 spider , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Electrical system problems
- Seat belts problems
- Unknown or other problems
- Engine problems
- Fuel/propulsion system problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Fiat 124 spider vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by 124 spider model years
A total of 1 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by 124 spider model years
There were a total of 1 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 32 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Fiat 124 spider . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Fiat 124 spider vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Fiat 124 spider 2018
- Date Of Incident: 2021-01-25
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-23
- VIN: JC1NFAEKXJ0
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: The contact owns a 2014 Fiat 124 Spider. The contact stated while the vehicle was parked, the vehicle stalled and failed to return to normal operation. No warning light was illuminated. The contact researched and was made aware of an undisclosed NHTSA Campaign however, the VIN was not included. The vehicle was towed to a dealer where it was diagnosed and determined that the fuel pump and the battery needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 6,000.
Fiat 124 spider 2017
- Date Of Incident: 2023-11-07
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-16
- VIN: JC1NFAEKXH0
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: My dealership where I bought my car let me know of a recall my vehicle had during an oil change. I then asked if they could fix it to where they said no, that only FIAT could fix it or another dealership about 40 minutes away. I then went to that other dealership and they told me no because it had to be done through the dealership I bought the car from. Then the guy told me he had the parts but he won't do it because he won't get paid for it. I've looked up so many places and nobody wants to do it so what am I supposed to do? Wait for the car to break down. They are literally the worst people and lazy. They once left "forgot" to put my skid plate back on and when I told them the next time I went the lady told me they would never do such a thing or let me go months without it, but they did. This dealership is 2 hours away I can't keep going back and forth arguing with them I need this resolved now, it's been months close to a year since they mentioned the recall.
Fiat 124 spider 2018
- Date Of Incident: 2024-03-20
- Date Complaint: 2024-04-12
- VIN: JC1NFAEK1J0
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: We purchased a 2018 Fiat Spider from a dealer as a new vehicle. It apparently had recalls but the dealers never notified Fiat that we were the new owners and the dealer has been listed as the owner all of this time so we never received notifications. The vehicle is only used as a summer vehicle and the clutch just went out at 9000 miles. We have multiple manual transmission vehicles in the household and none have ever gone out before 120,000 miles. Additionally, we found out that there were recalls related to the transmission. In regard to repairs, they don't even make the original clutch anymore and have an updated clutch plate and assembly from Fiat for repair. Obviously there was a defect since they don't even make the original clutch. Also if we had been notified of recalls, repairing those may have prevented this problem. We have always had the vehicle repaired at certified Fiat dealers but never have had them fix any recalls aside from recommended service. It appears Fiat knew that there is a clutch defect. We contacted Fiat and they refuse to remediate the problem since its outside the warranty period. With the history of not receiving recall notices due to dealer error and the clutch assembly no longer available but rather an updated improved version, we would hope Fiat would cover at least parts. Repair cost is almost $9000 for a 9000 mile clutch on a car that is like new. Thanks. [XXX] and [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Fiat 124 spider 2018
- Date Of Incident: 2022-07-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-03-22
- VIN: JC1NFAEK2J0
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: Both the drivers side and passenger side have to be hand pushed back up into their retreival mechanism after use, or they end up hanging down into the path of the closing doors. My car had less than 18,000 miles on it when I bought it, and it was already a problem. This is a known problem in the (2017 - 2020) Fiat 124 Spider world. Fiat should repair these free of charge. I have a 2006 Toyota Matrix that the seatbelts still work perfectly. It has 180,000 miles on it.
Fiat 124 spider 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2024-03-19
- Date Complaint: 2024-03-19
- VIN: JC1NFAEK7K0
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: The seat belts do not retract properly, causing a loose seat belt. The vehicle has 10,000 miles on it. This is a common problem with all 2017 to 2020 Fiat Spiders. Replacement seat belt retractors have the same problem.
Fiat 124 spider 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2024-01-30
- Date Complaint: 2024-01-31
- VIN: JC1NFAEK8K0
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: The driver side seat belt has stopped retracting, stopped working. After researching different Fiat 124 Spider forums, It seems to be a very common issue on this car. I have an appointment with my service center next week. But it's scary to not have a seat belt that works.
Fiat 124 spider 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2022-10-03
- Date Complaint: 2022-10-03
- VIN: JC1NFAEK5K0
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: Component: Fuel pump failure defect. Risk: accident with injury/death due to lack of mobility. Manufacturer Confirmed: YES, via Recall notice Y92/NHTSA 21V-879. Component Inspected: NO!. That's what I want! Warning lamps / Symbols: Uknown at this time. I am in possession of a letter from FCA US LLC in regard to my vehicle being subject to a recall, specifically Y92 / NHTSA 21V-879 (Defective fuel pump). When contacting all dealers in a 50-mile radius for completion of this recall repair, I am told that they don't have the capability to perform the repairs based on the fact that I didn't purchase my vehicle from them (my purchase was a private sale). When contacting Fiat Customer Care, a supervisor said that they can't force the dealers to repair my vehicle being that they are independently owned and operated. Now here I stand with a vehicle that has a safety issue, an issue recognized by the manufacturer who issued the Recall Notice, an issue that NHTSA is aware of, and the manufacturer saying there is nothing they can do. I am sure I am not the only one having this problem with FCA US LLC. I want an investigation to be conducted as to how FCA US LLC is able to issue a Recall Notice, yet not enforce its completion. But more importantly, I want my vehicle repaired as i should be!
Fiat 124 spider 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2022-08-24
- Date Complaint: 2022-08-24
- VIN: JC1NFAEK9K0
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: I have received multiple letters in regards to a recall on the Fuel Delivery Module. Recall #Y92. There are no longer Fiat dealerships in my area. The closest Chrysler dealership willing to look at the car is 30 miles away and will not pre order the part or let me make a appointment. This would mean days off work, renting a vehicle, and wasted time. Their other option was for me to go to a private mechanic but I have contacted several and they all state they can not get the parts for the repair/replacement. I'm at my wits end trying to get this taken care of and I don't know what to do next.
Fiat 124 spider 2018
- Date Of Incident: 2022-08-13
- Date Complaint: 2022-08-18
- VIN: JC1NFAEK5J0
- Components: LANE DEPARTURE
- Summary: The Blind spot warning which illuminates on the side mirrors is indicating false positives, staying on for prolonged periods even one no other vehicle or object is within the blind spot. Also, the warning does not always illuminate when another vehicle is in the blind spot this would be a false negative response. This resulted in a near miss crash. This started one week ago and is continuous issue. On line forums demonstrate the same an/or similar problems.
Fiat 124 spider 2017
- Date Of Incident: 2022-07-11
- Date Complaint: 2022-07-12
- VIN: JC1NFAEK6H0
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: Boyh seatbelts do not retract properly
Fiat 124 spider 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2021-11-11
- Date Complaint: 2022-05-18
- VIN: JC1NFAEKXK0
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2019 Fiat 124 Spider. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V879000 (Fuel System, Gasoline) however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
Fiat 124 spider 2018
- Date Of Incident: 2019-07-02
- Date Complaint: 2021-06-21
- VIN: JC1NFAEK9J0
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: The driver's side (left) seat belt does not properly retract when unbuckling and exiting the vehicle, making it difficult to use on a daily basis. I have not yet taken the car in for service, because apparently this issue is widespread for this model and the replacement parts are not available / are on backorder.
Fiat 124 spider 2018
- Date Of Incident: 2020-10-29
- Date Complaint: 2021-06-04
- VIN: JC1NFAEK7J0
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: The seat belt retractors, BOTH PASSANGE SIDE AND DRIVER Side are failing at an alarming rate according to FIAT Forums (and my personal experience). Mine was diagnosed by Ramsey FIAT (Authorized Dealer and Service Center) in Oct or Nov of 2020. I purchased car new, only owner. I was advised by technician that it would be unsafe to drive car in that condition and that both assemblies should be replaced. Dealer said it would be a couple weeks to get the part. However as of June 4th, 2021 dealer has only received assembly for one side. I was given a new ETA of late Aug. FIAT CARES had no confidence in that date being met, as over a dozen updates ETAs have been missed already. For most part car has not been driven due to this safety defect. I opened a case with FIAT CARES customer service late last year. The disinterest of Fiat as the 124 Spider was made on the Mazda Miata assembly line and the parts are interchangeable. The Mazda parts are readily available, but the Fiat dealers are refusing to purchase them to protect their customers. -- Car is avail for inspection upon request, however dealer was the one who identified the issue and the proposed solution. -- Seatbelt assembly, both sides put safety of driver and passenger at risk. -- Problem been reproduced and confirmed by FIAT dealer. -- Problem escalated to the manufacturer, via FIAT CARES Customer Service (2020).
Fiat 124 spider 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2021-03-20
- Date Complaint: 2021-03-26
- VIN: JC1NFAEK0K0
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: AT 15,595 MILES I DISCOVERED MORE THAN AN OUNCE OF OIL IN THE INTAKE. I RECOGNIZE ON TURBO AND SUPERCHARGED CARS SOME BLOWBY IS TO BE EXPECTED. THIS IS TYPICALLY REMEDIED BY AN ENGINE OIL SEPARATOR (AKA A CATCH CAN). THE 2019 HAS A FACTORY INSTALLED CATCH CAN (MOPAR PART NUMBER 68320849AA) YET STILL SHOWS SIGNS OF EXCESSIVE BLOWBY AND OIL CONSUMPTION (GOOGLE THE COMPLAINTS). THE DEALER (DAYTON ANDREWS IN CLEARWATER FL) IS TELLING ME THIS IS NORMAL. YET THEY CAN PROVIDE NO SERVICE BULLETINS OR ANY DOCUMENTATION FROM MOPAR/FIAT STATING THIS IS ACCEPTABLE. THIS AMOUNT OF BLOW BY AND OIL CONSUMPTION CAN LEAD TO FOULED PLUGS, PCV SYSTEM AND SIGNIFICANTLY IMPACTING EMISSIONS AND OVERALL ENGINE RELIABILITY.
Fiat 124 spider 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2021-03-03
- Date Complaint: 2021-03-06
- VIN: JC1NFAEK1K0
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: THE MATTE BLACK/HERITAGE STRIP IS ABSORBING WATER A D CAUSING DISCOLORATION. I TRIED WASHING IT OFF THINKING IT IS A WATER SPOT BUT HAVE BEEN INFORMED THE PROTECTIVE COATING OVER THE MATTE BLACK IS THE ISSUE AND IT WAS A COMMON PROBLEM IN EUROPE.
Recalls Fiat 124 spider
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 4 recalls for different components of the Fiat 124 spider.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Fiat 124 spider 2019
- Report Received Date: 2024-09-18
- Manufacturer: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC)
- Components: AIR BAGS: AIR BAG/RESTRAINT CONTROL MODULE:SOFTWARE
- Summary: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2017-2020 Fiat 124 Spider vehicles. A software error in the air bag control module may cause the front air bags to deploy with excessive force during a crash. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 208, "Occupant Crash Protection."
- Consequence: An air bag that deploys with excessive force can increase the risk of injury.
- Remedy: Dealers will update the air bag control module software, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed November 7, 2024. Owners may contact FCA customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA's number for this recall is A3B.
- Model: Fiat 124 spider 2017
- Report Received Date: 2024-09-18
- Manufacturer: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC)
- Components: AIR BAGS: AIR BAG/RESTRAINT CONTROL MODULE:SOFTWARE
- Summary: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2017-2020 Fiat 124 Spider vehicles. A software error in the air bag control module may cause the front air bags to deploy with excessive force during a crash. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 208, "Occupant Crash Protection."
- Consequence: An air bag that deploys with excessive force can increase the risk of injury.
- Remedy: Dealers will update the air bag control module software, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed November 7, 2024. Owners may contact FCA customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA's number for this recall is A3B.
- Model: Fiat 124 spider 2018
- Report Received Date: 2024-09-18
- Manufacturer: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC)
- Components: AIR BAGS: AIR BAG/RESTRAINT CONTROL MODULE:SOFTWARE
- Summary: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2017-2020 Fiat 124 Spider vehicles. A software error in the air bag control module may cause the front air bags to deploy with excessive force during a crash. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 208, "Occupant Crash Protection."
- Consequence: An air bag that deploys with excessive force can increase the risk of injury.
- Remedy: Dealers will update the air bag control module software, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed November 7, 2024. Owners may contact FCA customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA's number for this recall is A3B.
- Model: Fiat 124 spider 2019
- Report Received Date: 2021-11-12
- Manufacturer: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC)
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP
- Summary: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2019 Fiat 124 Spider vehicles. The impeller inside the fuel pump may be deformed, potentially causing the fuel pump to fail.
- Consequence: Fuel pump failure may cause an engine stall, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the fuel pump, free of charge. Interim owner notification letters informing owners of the safety recall were mailed on January 6, 2022. Owner notification letters were mailed July 5, 2022. Owners may contact FCA US, LLC customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA US, LLC's number for this recall is Y92.
Latest negative Fiat 124 spider car reviews
Latest positive Fiat 124 spider car reviews
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Vehicle year: 2019
I'm really happy with what I received!
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Vehicle year: 2017
Firstly, I want to say that this car is 75 to 80% Mazda Miata, but that's where the similarities end. In my opinion, the car has a longer nose and much better styling. The Fiat feels and sounds like a true sports car. The 6-speed auto is an Aisen product, which allows the car to shift even faster than a 6-speed manual. If you travel the daily freeway commute like me, the 6-speed auto is more than enough. Although I've only had the car for less than a week, I have a sportscar past. My father owned a 1988 Mazda RX7 convertible. While the RX7 could take a corner without effort, the Fiat still does the same but is a bit nose heavy. This is because the Fiat's engine is an iron block, placing more weight over the front wheels. Yet, the car takes the corners well. I am still enjoying my commute, even though I had to give up a Prius Plug-in that gets 50-60 mpg and a free ride in the CA HOV lane. Who cares, really when the Fiat is much more fun to drive and gets 31mpg on average? It's your call, but why waste money on a more expensive BMW or Mercedes when you can get an excellent roadster out of the Fiat 124 Spider Lusso? I have had the car for six months now with no issues. At 62k miles and over 4 years old, it's still running great! The old Fit It Again Tony myth no longer applies to this car. Most parts are sourced from the Mazda bin, as it was built next to the MX5 Miata cousin. It's a great deal if you're not taller than 6 feet and want a fun convertible. It also has much better mileage than a Mustang or Camaro convertible!
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Vehicle year: 2017
I was sold on this car because of its more appealing look compared to the Miata. Although I'm over 6 feet tall and can't put the seat all the way back and fully depress the clutch, I found the cabin surprisingly comfortable and not as small as some professional reviewers would lead you to believe. Getting in can be a bit of a drop since the car sits low to the ground, but the seat side bolster doesn't hinder access. Exiting the car is much easier if you're able to open the door fully, as it swings out very wide. The instruments are well lit at night and easy to read. When the top is up, there are two pronounced blind spots behind the driver. If this concerns you, opt for the version with parking sensors, etc. The radio is nothing terrific, but it's much better than I anticipated. If your eyesight needs assistance, choose the larger radio touchscreen. Premium gas is recommended, but not required. So far, I am perfectly happy with my Rosso Classica with Technology Package.
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Vehicle year: 2017
I recently purchased a 2017 Fiat Spyder, used, and I must say I am absolutely thrilled with my new sporty convertible! While I usually go for the Convertible Mustang, I decided to try something different this time and I'm so glad I did. The car handles perfectly and takes off like a bullet. Although it's been years since I drove a manual, I had no problems with the 6-speed transmission. The only downside is the way you must open and close the convertible top. Unlike the Mustang, you have to unlatch it from the inside and guide it into place manually. But overall, I would still give it a five-star rating for its exceptional performance and style!
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Vehicle year: 2019
Such a beautiful, tight, fun ride! I'm so glad I chose this car. While it's not a 'race car' (which is exactly what I wanted), the turbo gives it plenty of spunk when I need it. I've owned a Corvette and a BMW Z4 in the past, but I couldn't be happier with the Abarth. It's truly unique. The short-throw stick-shift is just right and the manual top takes less than 5 seconds to operate. I'm a happy camper!
Are you having problems with your Fiat 124 spider?
Jack Little 2024-11-29
Vehicle year: 2019
Although I love the car, I noticed that the driver side Blind Spot Monitor was not functioning properly. However, I was fortunate enough to have the manufacturer warranty cover the $2000 repair cost. It is surprising to encounter such an issue in a car that is only two years old.
Guillermo Ryan 2024-11-07
Vehicle year: 2019
That sounds great, thank you!
Frederick Nolan 2024-09-21
Vehicle year: 2017
I'm glad I don't own a Fiat/Chrysler car. The company has a reputation for producing low-quality vehicles. My car had to be sent back to Fiat as a lemon and was replaced with a used Porsche that still had a warranty for almost the same price. If you're looking for a car that's fun to drive short distances, this is the car for you. However, it's not a fast car and the commercials showing it blazing away are pretty much lies. The main issue with this car is quality. After waiting over 2 months for one part, I filed for lemon status on it and was approved, so Fiat is buying it back. Love the idea of this car, but Fiat just can't make a quality car. The stock is VERY limited, but don't let that get used to justify overpaying for this car. It's a unique take on the Miata, but I'd stay away from the 2017 version of this car. After 9 months, my car has less than 4000 miles, mainly due to having driven the complimentary rental cars for a good portion of the year. Update 2019: I had to use rental cars for 7 months before Fiat was forced to pay me back for it. For cheaper than this car, I got a Porsche Boxster with a year of warranty left. That makes up for buying a Fiat.
Evert Blick 2024-03-22
Vehicle year: 2018
I'm glad I don't own a Fiat/Chrysler car. The company has a reputation for producing low-quality vehicles. My car had to be sent back to Fiat as a lemon and was replaced with a used Porsche that still had a warranty for almost the same price. If you're looking for a car that's fun to drive short distances, this is the car for you. However, it's not a fast car and the commercials showing it blazing away are pretty much lies. The main issue with this car is quality. After waiting over 2 months for one part, I filed for lemon status on it and was approved, so Fiat is buying it back. Love the idea of this car, but Fiat just can't make a quality car. The stock is VERY limited, but don't let that get used to justify overpaying for this car. It's a unique take on the Miata, but I'd stay away from the 2017 version of this car. After 9 months, my car has less than 4000 miles, mainly due to having driven the complimentary rental cars for a good portion of the year. Update 2019: I had to use rental cars for 7 months before Fiat was forced to pay me back for it. For cheaper than this car, I got a Porsche Boxster with a year of warranty left. That makes up for buying a Fiat.