The Fiat 124 Spider Years to Avoid
We've identified two Fiat 124 Spider years to avoid based on common problems. Here's which years you should stick clear of (and which 124 Spider years are considered reliable instead).
When it comes to the Fiat 124 Spider, a revival of the beloved nameplate from the 1960s and 70s, comparisons to the Mazda MX-5 Miata are inevitable. After all, the modern 124 Spider is based on the Miata platform. However, Fiat has put its own spin on this two-seat convertible, incorporating styling cues from the original version to create a distinctively different exterior appearance.
Inside, the 124 Spider offers a more relaxed driving experience than the Miata, with extra sound-deadening measures that reduce interior noise, higher-quality materials, and slightly more trunk space. Under the hood, a turbo engine provides more power but, surprisingly, lacks responsiveness and is actually slower than the Miata.
However, beyond these general considerations, potential buyers should be aware that not all model years of the Fiat 124 Spider are created equal. In fact, there are a few Fiat 124 Spider years to avoid if you’re buying a used unit. Let’s take a look.
Which Fiat 124 Years to Avoid?
Unfortunately, the Fiat 124 had a rather short production run, so you don’t have many options to choose from. Regardless, some years are worse than others in terms of reliability and are best avoided so you can get the most out of your investment.
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2017 Fiat 124 Spider
While the 2017 model is one of the picks for the Fiat 124 years to avoid, it’s far from the most problematic roadster out there. However, it did receive numerous complaints that should give consumers a pause.
Transmission Issues
While the 2017 Fiat 124 Spider is a stylish revival of a classic, it has faced some concerning transmission issues. Owners have reported their automatics only shifting at high RPMs, leading to a loss of power and torque. Some have even experienced a frightening lack of acceleration despite the engine revving.
As one owner discovered, potential culprits include low transmission fluid, faulty electronic control modules, or even defective transmission control modules. Thankfully, recalls for transmission software and warranty coverage have provided some relief. However, these issues serve as a warning for potential buyers to be cautious when considering this particular model year.
Faulty Alarm System
The 2017 Fiat 124 Spider has been plagued by electrical gremlins, particularly regarding the car’s alarm system. Owners have reported the alarm going off randomly, without any apparent reason, and it doesn’t seem to matter how fast they’re going, what gear they’re in, or what kind of road they’re on. Some owners claimed experiencing the alarm going off up to 15 times in a single day.
When the alarm decides to throw a tantrum, the horn starts blaring, and the emergency lights flash incessantly. The only way to stop the madness is to pull over, turn off the ignition, and start the car again. However, this is only a temporary fix, as the alarm can reactivate at any moment, leaving drivers constantly on edge.
The issue seems to be related to a faulty Body Control Module (BCM), which is responsible for managing various electrical functions in the car. Despite numerous complaints and Fiat being aware of the problem for over a year, a definitive solution has yet to be implemented. Some desperate owners have even considered invoking lemon laws to get rid of their problematic Spiders.
Fuel System Problems
Not the most prevalent reliability issue, but the 2017 Spider has received a few complaints about its fuel system. The most common problem is the vehicle stalling while driving, often preceded by the electronic throttle control warning light. Dealers have attempted to fix these issues multiple times, but the solutions are temporary at best.
Within 24 hours of picking up their “repaired” car, owners find themselves facing the same problems again. Some have also experienced fouled-out spark plugs, oil light illumination, and low coolant levels. These recurring issues have resulted in multiple tows and extended repair times.
THE MOST RELIABLE YEAR FOR THE FIAT 124 SPIDER
The FIAT 124 Spider is an exciting addition to the sports car world. Since this vehicle is fast, it’s vital to pick the most reliable FIAT 124 Spider year.
2018 Fiat 124 Spider
The following year was a much less problematic outing for the Fiat 124, but it did have some issues that most buyers should know.
Water Pump and Coolant Leaks
According to owner reports, the 2018 Fiat 124 Spider has struggled with issues involving the water pump and coolant leaks, often stemming from the seal between the pump and the engine block rather than the pump itself. This can result in significant labor costs comparable to those of a timing belt replacement.
Owners have expressed concern that some dealerships may resort to temporary fixes, such as using coolant stop leak products, rather than performing proper water pump replacements under warranty. This can exacerbate the problem over time.
It’s important to recognize that not all coolant leaks originate from the water pump. Leaks can also occur at various joints in the cooling system, especially around the turbo and oil cooler structure, areas that are often difficult to inspect due to heat shielding.
Seat Belt Malfunction
While this is not exactly a serious mechanical issue, the 2018 Spider’s faulty seat belts can put drivers at risk. The most common problem reported is the seat belts failing to properly retract after use, causing them to hang down and interfere with the closing of the doors. This issue affects both the driver’s side and passenger’s side seat belts, and it seems to occur even on vehicles with relatively low mileage.
Despite the seat belt assemblies being interchangeable with those of the Mazda Miata, Fiat dealers have been reluctant to source the readily available Mazda parts, further exacerbating the issue. Owners have escalated the problem to Fiat’s customer service, but the manufacturer’s response has been disappointing.
ARE FIATS GOOD CARS?
Although Fiat is a very popular brand in Europe, it never quite found its footing in the United States. Are Fiats good cars?
Which Fiat 124 Spider Years are Safe to Buy as Used?
The remaining 2019 and 2020 Fiat 124 Spiders are generally considered reliable by their owners. These models feature improvements over the 2018 version, particularly in sealing the water pump and cooling system.
While no car is without issues, reports of significant problems in these later models are relatively low. Regular maintenance and proper care contribute to their dependable performance. Owners appreciate the sporty driving experience and the classic design, noting that these cars deliver fun and reliability. Overall, the 2019 and 2020 Fiat 124 Spiders offer a good balance of performance and dependability even to the most jaded buyers.
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