2019 Fiat 124 Spider
2019 Fiat 124 Spider
Overview
The 2019 Fiat 124 Spider, a stylish and agile roadster, generally offers a good ownership experience with a focus on driving enjoyment. It shares its platform with the Mazda MX-5 Miata, inheriting much of its renowned mechanical soundness. However, like any vehicle, it has specific areas where owners have reported concerns. This analysis focuses on documented technical issues beyond routine maintenance, providing insights into potential reliability aspects for prospective and current owners. The powertrain, while generally robust, has seen some specific complaints, and electrical systems are a common area for minor grievances across many vehicle makes and models.
Engine
1.4L Turbocharged MultiAir
Turbocharger Lag/Failure
- Symptoms: Reduced power, whistling noises from the engine bay, check engine light illumination.
- Solution: Turbocharger replacement or repair.
- Cost: $800 - $1500
Oil Leaks
- Symptoms: Visible oil spots under the vehicle, burning oil smell, low oil level warnings.
- Solution: Replacement of seals, gaskets, or oil pan.
- Cost: $300 - $700
Transmission
6-Speed Manual
Clutch Wear
- Symptoms: Slipping clutch, difficulty shifting gears, burning smell during operation.
- Solution: Clutch kit replacement (clutch disc, pressure plate, release bearing).
- Cost: $700 - $1200
6-Speed Automatic
Hesitation/Jerking
- Symptoms: Delayed gear engagement, rough shifting between gears, occasional jerking motion.
- Solution: Transmission fluid flush and filter replacement, potential internal component repair or transmission control module update.
- Cost: $400 - $1000
Suspension
Standard Chassis
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: No widespread issues reported.
Electrical
Infotainment System
Connectivity Issues
- Symptoms: Bluetooth connectivity problems, touchscreen unresponsiveness, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto glitches.
- Solution: Software updates, infotainment unit reset, or replacement.
- Cost: $200 - $800
Lighting System
Headlight/Taillight Malfunctions
- Symptoms: Intermittent or complete failure of headlights or taillights, flickering.
- Solution: Bulb replacement, wiring inspection, or module replacement.
- Cost: $100 - $400
Exterior
Body Panels & Trim
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: No widespread issues reported.
Interior
Cabin Components
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: No widespread issues reported.
Summary Verdict
The 2019 Fiat 124 Spider is a generally reliable vehicle, particularly benefiting from its shared platform with Mazda. The most commonly reported technical issues tend to revolve around the turbocharged engine, specifically related to the turbocharger itself and potential oil leaks. Transmission issues, while not pervasive, can occur with both manual (clutch wear) and automatic (shifting hesitation) variants. Electrical gremlins, primarily affecting the infotainment system’s connectivity and responsiveness, are also noted. However, the suspension, exterior, and interior components are largely free from widespread significant problems. Regular maintenance and addressing early signs of the aforementioned issues can contribute to a positive ownership experience.