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2019 Fiat 124 Spider Report

Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Updated May 30, 2026·Ryan Davis·2 Critical Recalls

Overall Score

6.8/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • The air bag control module software is a significant concern, potentially impacting safety.
  • Recurring seat belt issues, including retractor problems, are a notable weak point.
  • The fuel pump recall highlights a critical component failure risk.
  • Engine oil blow-by is reported, suggesting potential long-term engine health concerns.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2019 Fiat 124 Spider

The 2019 Fiat 124 Spider offers a spirited, rear-drive convertible experience, but used buyers should approach with informed caution. Its turbocharged 1.4-liter four-cylinder engine pairs with a standard 6-speed automatic transmission, delivering respectable fuel economy for its class. However, a history of safety recalls and recurring complaints, particularly concerning seat belts and the fuel system, warrants a thorough inspection.

Critical Failure Risk

Reports indicate issues with seat belt retractors failing or not retracting properly. This can compromise occupant safety, especially during sudden stops or impacts.

Early detection can help you avoid a $400-$800 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls3
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

9
Seat Belts3
Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency
Combined
29
MPG
City
25
MPG
Highway
36
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

8.0/ 10

Practicality

2.7/ 10

The score is mainly limited by small boot, limited door access, and limited seating.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Enthusiasts seeking an affordable, stylish rear-drive convertible.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Drivers who demand absolute mechanical reliability and minimal unexpected expenses.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2019 Fiat 124 Spider Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2019 Fiat 124 Spider.

  • Recall TimelineOfficial safety notices
  • Owner ComplaintsReal driver reports
  • Failure AnalysisKnown part defects
Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Premium
Seating Capacity
2
Transmission
Automatic 6-spd
Drivetrain
RWD/Rear-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Chassis Cab
EPA Combined MPG
29

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Unlock the complete checklist, maintenance outlook, and buyer verdict in one place.

Most Common Issues

1. Seats

Most reported

Usage: 3 reports

2. Fuel System

Usage: 2 reports

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

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

5,000 mi

Unlock the full maintenance guide for every scheduled service interval and cost forecast.

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist
Complete maintenance schedule (5 service intervals)
Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context
Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it
Full specs and trim-level context
3 recall campaign details & remedy notes
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2019 Fiat 124 Spider reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2019 Fiat 124 Spider is 8.0/10. Reliability score is 8.0/10. NHTSA recalls: 3. Owner complaints: 9.

How practical is the 2019 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 140 litres.

What is the overall score for the 2019 Fiat 124 Spider?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2019 Fiat 124 Spider is 6.8/10. Overall score is 6.8/10 (Good). Confidence 55%. Maintenance 8.3/10. Practicality 2.7/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2019 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: $200 - $400. Repair prediction highlight: Seat Belt Retractor (typical at 25,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $150 • Max: $400).

What engine is in the 2019 Fiat 124 Spider?▾

Engine specs list 4 • 1.4.

What transmission does the 2019 Fiat 124 Spider use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2019 Fiat 124 Spider, transmission is Automatic 6-spd. The paired drivetrain is RWD/Rear-Wheel Drive.

Does the 2019 124 Spider require Premium gas?▾

Manufacturer fuel recommendation: Premium.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2019 Fiat 124 Spider?▾

EPA combined estimate is 29 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2019 Fiat 124 Spider?▾

8 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.

How many people fit in a 2019 Fiat 124 Spider?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2019 Fiat 124 Spider, seating capacity is 2.

What body style is the 2019 Fiat 124 Spider?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2019 Fiat 124 Spider, body style is chassis_cab.

What drivetrain does the 2019 Fiat 124 Spider use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2019 Fiat 124 Spider, drivetrain is RWD/Rear-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic 6-spd.

What are the most common seat belts problems on the 2019 Fiat 124 Spider?▾

Top complaint category: seat belts (3 reports, 33.3% of complaints).

Are there open safety recalls on the 2019 Fiat 124 Spider?▾

This model year has 3 official safety campaigns listed.

Start Here

Maintenance guide

Costs + intervals

Recall report

Campaigns + remedy notes

Owner complaints

Issue volume + categories

In this guide

  1. 01Overview
  2. 02Who This Car Is For
  3. 03Reliability & Problems
  4. 04Vehicle Specs
  5. 05Unlock Full Report
  6. 06FAQ

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