2019 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 2019 Fiat 124 spider problems
Based on the complaints from owners of the 2019 Fiat 124 Spider, several common problems have been reported:
- Dashboard Reflection in Windshield: Some owners have mentioned that the dashboard reflection in the windshield can compromise visibility at certain sun angles, although others have disputed this claim, stating that the dash is not overly reflective.
- Transmission Issues: There have been complaints about transmission problems, particularly with the Mazda transmission used in the Fiat 124 Spider. However, some owners have had their transmissions replaced under warranty.
- Radio Connectivity: Concerns have been raised about the car's radio, which is a Mazda part, not connecting to Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. However, some owners have reported no issues with connecting their Samsung phones.
- Leaky Shocks: While some complaints mentioned leaky shocks, it has been clarified that these are stock Mazda MX-5 units, with the sport model Abarth having upgraded Bilstein shocks that are considered reliable.
- Visibility Issues: Contrary to complaints about visibility problems due to dashboard reflection, some owners have stated that the dash is not reflective and does not pose a visibility issue.
- Reliability and Repair: Overall, the Fiat 124 Spider is noted for its reliability and ease of repair. Modern Fiats and Alfa Romeos are considered to be more reliable than their predecessors, with mild issues that are easily repaired.
These reported problems highlight a mix of concerns related to visibility, transmission, radio connectivity, and shock absorbers. It's important for Fiat 124 Spider owners to be aware of these issues and address them promptly to ensure the optimal performance and safety of their vehicles.
What is the recall on the 2019 Fiat Spider?
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. Tip: Recalls don't affect every vehicle of the same year, make and model.
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.
Did Fiat discontinue the 124 Spider?
The FIAT® 124 Spider and FIAT 124 Spider Abarth are no longer in production, but you may be able to purchase a pre-owned vehicle through your local dealer. Contact your dealer to learn more.
2019 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
- Fuel/propulsion system problems
- Fuel system problems
- Gasoline problems
- Engine problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2019 Fiat 124 spider vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
2019 Fiat 124 spider complaints
The NHTSA has received 9 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2019 Fiat 124 spider.
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 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.
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-01-30
- 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.
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 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!
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 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.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-11-11
- 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.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-03-20
- 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.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-03-03
- 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.
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-10-15
- VIN: JC1NFAEKXK0
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: THE SEAT BELT RETRACTORS ARE FAILING AT AN ALARMING RATE ACCORDING TO FIAT FORUMS (AND MY PERSONAL EXPERIENCE). MINE FAILED 4 MONTHS AFTER PURCHASE. I TOOK THE CAR TO THE DEALER ON OCTOBER 15TH AND THEY SAID IT WOULD BE A COUPLE WEEKS TO GET THE PART. HOWEVER, AS OF MID-DECEMBER, THE EARLIEST THE FIAT DEALER SAID THEY WILL SHIP FROM ITALY IN FEBRUARY. THIS POSES A SEVERE SAFETY ISSUE AS THE SEATBELT WILL NOT RESTRAIN A PASSENGER FROM A SUDDEN STOP. FURTHER, IT SHOWS 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.
VISIBILITY/WIPER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-11-14
- VIN: JC1NFAEK5K0
- Components: VISIBILITY/WIPER
- Summary: THE DASH BOARD IS REFLECTED IN THE WIND SHIELD TO THE EXTENT AT CERTAIN SUN ANGLES VISION IS SERIOUSLY COMPROMISED. THERE ARE SILVER PLATES ON THE DASH THAT REFLECTS MORE THAN OTHERS BUT THE WHOLE DASH IS A SERIOUS PROBLEM. I IMMEDIATLY CONTACTED THE MANUFACTURER BUT GOT NO REPLY. THIS HAPPENS WHEN THE VEHICLE IS STATIONARY, MOVING ON A CITY STREET OR A HIGHWAY, TURNING ETC. I DON'T THINK A PICTURE WITH MY CELL PHONE WOULD HELP. SOMEONE WOULD HAVE TO SIT IN THE DRIVER'S SEAT AND EXPERIENCE THIS SAFETY ISSUE. IT IS NOT AS BAD AT NIGHT. A SUNNY DAY IS THE WORST.
2019 Fiat 124 spider recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the 2019 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.
- 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.
Negative 2019 Fiat 124 spider car reviews
Positive 2019 Fiat 124 spider car reviews
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I owned and drove my Porsche Boxster for six years and absolutely loved it. However, the cost of maintenance, parts, tires, and brakes was quite high. While the Porsche was an amazing car, it was designed for speeds of up to 165 mph, which meant that the tires, brakes, and other components were quite expensive. I only drove the car at high speeds once during my six years of ownership, so I felt like I was paying for a capability that I didn't really need. In contrast, the little 124 provides me with just as much driving fun at speeds that won't get me into trouble with the law. Additionally, since so much of the car is based on Mazda components, I expect the maintenance costs to be quite low. It's a relief not to have to worry about my car costing me more than I can afford to repair. Finally, before I owned my Porsche, I drove a Honda S2000, and I never thought I'd find a manual transmission as enjoyable as that car's. However, this Fiat comes really close. In fact, it's one of the best sticks I've ever driven, regardless of price.
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I was considering purchasing another MX-5, but after test driving a Spider at the dealer down the road, I was sold. The Spider felt more refined both inside and out, and the ride was more comfortable. The steering was quick and true, and the turbo gave me a thrilling experience when I hit the gas. I've already driven 3,000 miles with my Classica, and it's still a joy to throw the top down and go for a spin. I recently put a new Autoricambi exhaust on it, and it's been great fun! It's like a go-kart for grown-ups with a rocket on the back! I'm getting right at 31 mph with mostly city driving, and it's been absolutely perfect!
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I'm so glad to hear that you've had a great experience with your Fiat! It sounds like it's been super reliable for you, which is always a plus. And I totally agree that it's a really fun car to drive, especially considering the price point. If you're in the market for a weekend or second car, I think this would be a great choice. The only thing I wish it had is a hardtop roof option and a bit more horsepower, but overall, I think it's a fantastic car that you'll love driving!
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UPDATED AFTER 48 MONTHS AND 52,000 MILES OF OWNERSHIP: Hey there! I wanted to share my experience with the Miata MX-5 and the Fiat 124 Spider. I have to say, I absolutely love driving these roadsters! While Edmund's reviewers praise the Miata MX-5, they take the Fiat 124 Spider to task for noise, cargo space, and comfort. However, I have found that the Spider is actually better at dampening noise and has a slightly larger trunk than the Miata. Plus, it has the exact same headroom and legroom as the MX-5 - more headroom than the MX-5 RF! The MX-5 has better low end acceleration, but the Spider has better speed. I can't speak for the automatic 124s, but the manual tranny is more than adequate at low end; it just isn't quite as fast off the line as a MX-5. And once you spin the turbo up, the thing leaps from gear to gear in an exhilarating rush. Roadsters are definitely not for everyone; they wrap around your body like a glove and rank only slightly higher than a tricycle on a utilitarian scale, but man, are they FUN to drive. The 124 Spider captures the joy of driving well. It gives you excellent feedback, handles well, has a great little shifter, and looks awesome to boot. How well do they handle? Fastestlaps rates the Abarth at 1.10g on the skidpad - tied with cars like the Ferrari P488 Pista and Lambo Aventador. The Classica and Lusso are rated at 1.09g, tied with some models of the Porsche 911 and McLaren 720S! The drop top goes up and down easily. And because it is nowhere near as common as a Miata (or any other roadster), it gets looks and comments everywhere we go. I highly recommend this car for anyone looking to experience the true joy of driving. The car still gets comments constantly, and continually provides driving smiles. Based on performance, looks, and reliability, modern 124 Spiders are one of the best used car deals you can find, dollar for dollar.
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This Fiat is actually 70% Mazda Miata. However, the 30% that Fiat has added is pure Italian perfection. The head-turning body styling screams 'Forza Italia!!!' and the convertible is well insulated and easy to operate. The acceleration, while not jarring, is brisk especially when in 'Sport Mode'. Quite frankly, when the top is down, I don't want to go too fast because I like to be seen in it. The Abarth trim exhaust has a wonderful throaty sound to it. The Brembo brake option is wonderful. I'm glad I chose the Navigation option which includes the Bose audio system and the headrest speakers. The vehicle is very tight for a convertible, especially at this price, and the ride is very comfortable. The 70% base Mazda gives me the feeling of reliability and craftsmanship, and the 30% Fiat has added speaks to me of class, refinement, and sexiness. For me, this is a perfect combination. Bravo!
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2019 Fiat 124 spider problems:
Potential Issues with the Car | Fiat 124 Spider Forum
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Are you having problems with your 2019 Fiat 124 spider?
Jack Little 2024-11-29
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
That sounds great, thank you!