2018 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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Common 2018 Fiat 124 spider problems
The Fiat 124 Spider, introduced in 2018, has gained popularity among car enthusiasts for its stylish design, impressive handling, and fun-to-drive nature. However, like any other car, it has its share of common problems. This article will discuss these issues based on complaints from owners of the 2018 Fiat 124 Spider.
- Head Gasket Failure: Another issue reported by owners is the failure of the head gasket, which can lead to significant engine damage if not addressed promptly. Symptoms of head gasket failure include overheating, coolant leaks, and white smoke from the exhaust.
- Engine Replacement: Some owners have experienced engine issues severe enough to require a complete engine replacement. This can be a costly and time-consuming repair, and Fiat's lack of availability of replacement parts has been a point of contention for some owners.
- Water Damage: As an open-top vehicle, the Fiat 124 Spider is susceptible to water damage, especially if the manual roof is not properly sealed or maintained. Water damage can lead to issues with the interior electronics and upholstery.
- Kerb Damage: The 17-inch alloy wheels on the 124 Spider are more susceptible to kerb damage, which can lead to costly repairs or wheel replacements.
- Bodywork Damage: The 124 Spider's sports car design and enthusiastic driving experience can lead to bodywork damage, especially if the car has been in an accident. Poor-quality repair work can lead to future rust problems, so it's essential to ensure that any repairs are done according to the manufacturer's specifications.
- Electrical Issues: Owners have reported issues with non-engine electrics, such as interior lighting and infotainment systems. These issues can be frustrating and may require costly repairs.
- Interior Trim Issues: Some owners have reported issues with the interior trim, such as rattling noises and poor fit and finish.
- Aluminium Panel Repair: The 124 Spider uses lightweight aluminium panels, which can be more expensive to repair if damaged.
- Customer Service Issues: Some owners have reported poor customer service from Fiat dealerships, particularly in cases where the car has been in the shop for extended periods due to engine issues.
In conclusion, while the Fiat 124 Spider offers a fun and engaging driving experience, it's essential to be aware of these common problems and address them promptly to avoid more significant issues down the line. Regular maintenance and inspections can help prevent many of these issues, and it's crucial to work with a reputable dealership or mechanic to ensure that any repairs are done correctly and to the manufacturer's specifications.
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.
Are old Fiat 124 Spiders reliable?
The 124 Spider can be as reliable as any well sorted 1980s import and some people even use them as their daily driver. While it is a 1960s design it was quite advanced for its time so it feels much more modern than most of its contemporaries. When looking for a 124 Spider be certain to find one with little or no rust.
Why won't my 2018 Fiat 124 Spider start?
The most common reasons a Fiat 124 Spider won't start are a dead battery, an alternator problem, or failed starter.
How much is a 2018 Fiat 124 Spider?
$14,995 to $24,995
Prices for a used 2018 FIAT 124 Spider currently range from $14,995 to $24,995, with vehicle mileage ranging from 9,525 to 84,800. Find used 2018 FIAT 124 Spider inventory at a TrueCar Certified Dealership near you by entering your zip code and seeing the best matches in your area.
2018 Fiat 124 spider car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Fiat 124 spider problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Seat belts problems
- Electrical system problems
- Engine problems
- Fuel system problems
- Gasoline problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2018 Fiat 124 spider vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
2018 Fiat 124 spider complaints
The NHTSA has received 7 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2018 Fiat 124 spider.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-01-25
- 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.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-03-20
- 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)
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-07-01
- 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.
LANE DEPARTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-08-13
- 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.
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-07-02
- 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.
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-10-29
- 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).
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-06-01
- VIN: JC1NFAEK9J0
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2018 FIAT 124 SPIDER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING 35-40 MPH, THERE WAS AN ABNORMAL RATTLING SOUND COMING FROM THE VEHICLE. THE CHECK ENGINE WARNING LIGHT, KEYFOB, AND TPMS WARNING LIGHT WAS ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO CLASSIC CHRYSLER DODGE JEEP RAM FIAT OF ARLINGTON (1111 I-20 FRONTAGE RD, ARLINGTON, TX 76018, (682) 226-6400) TO BE DIAGNOSED. THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE SHIELD NEEDED TO BE TIGHTENED AND KEYFOB REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURE WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE BUT PROVIDED NO ASSISTANCE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 500.
2018 Fiat 124 spider recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 2018 Fiat 124 spider.
- 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.
Negative 2018 Fiat 124 spider car reviews
Positive 2018 Fiat 124 spider car reviews
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This car is an absolute blast to own! As a 54-year-old, I can honestly say that I love it even more now than when I first bought it two years ago. It has been incredibly reliable with zero problems so far. I opted for the Abarth version and I am in love with the sports mode, paddle shifters, and the stunning interior. Everywhere I go, people are always asking me about this car. I've made a few upgrades to the look, adding some red accents both inside and outside the car (which really pop against the pearl white exterior). You can tell that it was styled in Italy, as the interior is nicer than cars that cost $75k. It provides the true roadster experience, with the top coming down or up in less than 3 seconds! The low-to-the-ground design and 50/50 weight balance make for great handling and braking. The only downside is some turbo lag when going from 0 to 30 mph, but the sports mode and paddle shifters in the Abarth version more than make up for it. It's also a rare find on the road, as I've only seen two versions of my car since owning it. The interior has simple-to-use controls and the seats are incredibly comfortable, with noise reduction throughout making long drives a breeze. Overall, this is the best bang for your buck sports car/roadster on the market!
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This car has so many amazing features! It has fantastic looks, tough strength, cool turbo, super power, and speed. The handling is great and it has an attitude that loves the road. Plus, it has the ability to stop on a dime. You just can't stop looking at this car with its cool curves, angles, shape, size, and style. The light weight, clean lines, and logical and functional interior add to the retro mid 60's British sports car feel with a touch of the past. You can buy, drive, ride, and enjoy the sun in the sky with just one touch to put the top down. It's a silver 124 Classic with a 6-speed transmission.
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I bought this car about two years ago and I absolutely love it! The sleek, modern yet classic design of the body is just stunning. It's clear that the car was designed with someone who loves driving in mind, as it handles wonderfully. In fact, it often feels as though the car is just floating above the street. The convertible top is amazingly simple and quick to use, and the interior is beautifully done with lots of little added touches that just scream style. The performance is more than I could have asked for, and even after putting close to 13000 miles on this car, I still love it as much now as the day I got it. I'm now at almost 28000 miles and still loving this car, with no problems thus far. It's truly a great ride!
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If you're a fan of roadsters, this car is definitely for you. It handles like a dream, with no understeer and hugging the road like it's on rails. I have to say, this car is a gem. I'm confident that one day in the near future, it will rise in value - I guarantee it. The Italian styling, Japanese transmission, and all the other high-end parts make this car a winner. Trust me, you won't be disappointed. Go and drive one, and you'll see what I'm talking about!
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Nice looking car that caught my attention. Generally, I enjoy this car. However, I have been experiencing a thumping, creeping noise coming from the underside of the car and unfortunately, Fiat and the dealer have been unable to diagnose the issue without hearing the noise themselves. I have 5200 miles on the car and I am hoping that Fiat will be able to make a proper diagnosis before any further damage occurs. I would appreciate any assistance in resolving this issue. Thank you.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2018 Fiat 124 spider problems:
Potential Issues with the Car | Fiat 124 Spider Forum
May 26, 2021 ... --Water pump issues, sealant or manufacturing, 2018-9. -- Camshaft quality, hardening & composition. -- #2 and #3 cylinder issues, ...
2018 FIAT 124 Spider Problems | Kelley Blue Book
How reliable is the 2018 FIAT 124 Spider? See the most common repairs performed and learn if your vehicle is at risk for major repairs in the next 12 ...
2018 Issues? | Fiat 124 Spider Forum
Mar 20, 2020 ... 2018 Issues? · lots of trim rattles early days, all fixed · keyless entry issues, was water in the door sensor (common when been sitting).
Common Problems with 2017 Fiat 124 Spider - Q&A | JustAnswer
Dec 21, 2019 ... In my 124 Spider it sounds like something is loose underneath whenever I go over bumps. I just had the tires rotated, in - Answered by a ...
Having problems with my Spider | Fiat 124 Spider Forum
Jan 9, 2020 ... The malfunction indicator light may illuminate in the following cases: The engine's electrical system has a problem. The emission control system ...
Other years of Fiat 124 spider
Are you having problems with your 2018 Fiat 124 spider?
Evert Blick 2024-03-22
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.