2018 Fiat 124 Spider Report
Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.
Overall Score
Key Takeaways
- The airbag system is the primary concern, with a recall addressing excessive deployment force and numerous owner complaints.
- Inspect seat belt retractors thoroughly; reports indicate issues with them failing to retract properly.
- Early-life engine and electrical system problems, including clutch failure at low mileage, warrant careful inspection.
- Fuel economy is respectable, rated at 29 MPG combined, but it requires premium fuel.
2018 Fiat 124 Spider
The 2018 Fiat 124 Spider offers a spirited, rear-drive driving experience, but used buyers should be aware of its reliability and safety system concerns. With 17 complaints logged, the most frequent issues involve the airbag system, followed by seat belts and the engine. Two recalls were issued, one for potential unexpected downshifting due to transmission control module programming and another for airbag control module software errors that could cause excessive deployment force. Early-life failures in the engine and electrical systems are also noted.
Critical Failure Risk
Complaints indicate potential issues with the airbag system, including concerns related to recall remedy effectiveness. A recall addressed excessive deployment force due to a software error in the airbag control module.
Early detection can help you avoid a $1,000-$2,500 repair.
Safety & Bulletins
Owner Complaints
Performance & Efficiency
Reliability
Practicality
The score is mainly limited by small boot, limited door access, and limited seating.
Who This Car Is For
Best for
Enthusiasts seeking an affordable, rear-drive convertible experience.
+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report
Avoid if
Commuters who require absolute reliability and minimal unexpected expenses.
+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report
2018 Fiat 124 Spider Reliability Analysis
Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2018 Fiat 124 Spider.
Vehicle Specs
- Fuel Type
- Premium
- Seating Capacity
- 2
- Transmission
- Automatic 6-spd
- Drivetrain
- Rear-Wheel Drive
- Body Style
- Chassis Cab
- EPA Combined MPG
- 29
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Most Common Issues
1. Airbags
Most reportedUsage: 7 reports
2. Seats
Usage: 3 reports
First Service Interval
- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Brake System Inspection
Est. shop cost: $100 - $200
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FAQ
Is the 2018 Fiat 124 Spider reliable?
The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2018 Fiat 124 Spider is 8.3/10. Reliability score is 8.3/10. NHTSA recalls: 2. Owner complaints: 17.
How practical is the 2018 Fiat 124 Spider for daily use?
Practicality score is 2.7/10. The score is mainly limited by small boot, limited door access, and limited seating. EPA combined economy is 29 MPG. Seating capacity is 2. 2 passenger doors are listed. Boot capacity is 133 litres.
What is the overall score for the 2018 Fiat 124 Spider?
The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2018 Fiat 124 Spider is 6.9/10. Overall score is 6.9/10 (Good). Confidence 55%. Maintenance 8.4/10. Practicality 2.7/10.
What does it cost to own and maintain a 2018 Fiat 124 Spider?
Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Brake System Inspection at 5,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $400 - $700. Repair prediction highlight: Airbag Control Module (typical at 50,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $500 • Max: $1500).
What engine is in the 2018 Fiat 124 Spider?
Engine specs list 4 • 1.4.
What transmission does the 2018 Fiat 124 Spider use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Fiat 124 Spider, transmission is Automatic 6-spd. The paired drivetrain is Rear-Wheel Drive.
Does the 2018 124 Spider require Premium gas?
Manufacturer fuel recommendation: Premium.
What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2018 Fiat 124 Spider?
EPA combined estimate is 29 MPG.
What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2018 Fiat 124 Spider?
2 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control.
How many people fit in a 2018 Fiat 124 Spider?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Fiat 124 Spider, seating capacity is 2.
What body style is the 2018 Fiat 124 Spider?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Fiat 124 Spider, body style is chassis_cab.
What drivetrain does the 2018 Fiat 124 Spider use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Fiat 124 Spider, drivetrain is Rear-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic 6-spd.
What are the most common air bags problems on the 2018 Fiat 124 Spider?
Top complaint category: air bags (7 reports, 41.2% of complaints).
Are there open safety recalls on the 2018 Fiat 124 Spider?
This model year has 2 official safety campaigns listed.