What are the most common problems with the 2020 Fiat 124 Spider?

The primary concern for used 2020 Fiat 124 Spider models is the **air bag system recall** (24V694000), which addresses potential excessive deployment force. Complaints focus on the difficulty of obtaining repairs.

How many recalls does the 2020 Fiat 124 Spider have?

The 2020 Fiat 124 Spider currently has 1 recall on file. Review the full recall report to see affected components and available remedies.

Is the 2020 Fiat 124 Spider a good buy used?

Verdict: Proceed with caution. The primary concern for used 2020 Fiat 124 Spider models is the **air bag system recall** (24V694000), which addresses potential excessive deployment force. Complaints focus on the difficulty of obtaining repairs. All reported complaints are linked to the air bag system, highlighting this as the dominant and critical issue for this model year. Despite the air bag issue, the vehicle offers good fuel economy, achieving up to 36 MPG highway. The rear-wheel-drive platform and turbocharged engine provide engaging driving dynamics, typical of a compact sports car. NHTSA has not provided overall safety ratings for this model, with all crash test categories listed as 'Not Rated'. Always verify service history, open recalls, and maintenance records before purchasing.

What maintenance costs should I expect for the 2020 Fiat 124 Spider?

Refer to the maintenance cost guide for interval schedules, DIY difficulty ratings, and typical repair cost ranges for the 2020 Fiat 124 Spider.

2020 Fiat 124 Spider Report

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

Updated May 30, 2026Daniel Wilson1 Critical Recall

Overall Score

Our Verdict

Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

The primary concern for used 2020 Fiat 124 Spider models is the air bag system recall (24V694000), which addresses potential excessive deployment force. Complaints focus on the difficulty of obtaining repairs.
All reported complaints are linked to the air bag system, highlighting this as the dominant and critical issue for this model year.
Despite the air bag issue, the vehicle offers good fuel economy, achieving up to 36 MPG highway.
The rear-wheel-drive platform and turbocharged engine provide engaging driving dynamics, typical of a compact sports car.

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Overview

2020 Fiat 124 Spider

The 2020 Fiat 124 Spider offers a spirited, rear-drive roadster experience powered by a 1.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. It delivers an impressive 29 MPG combined, making it a relatively efficient choice for its class. However, potential buyers should be aware of a significant safety recall affecting the air bag system, which has been the subject of numerous complaints regarding repair availability. This issue, coupled with the vehicle's 'Below Average' LLM reliability score, necessitates a careful pre-purchase inspection.

Critical Failure Risk

A software error in the Air Bag Control Module can cause excessive front air bag deployment force. While a recall addresses this, owners have reported significant delays and unavailability of parts and service for the remedy. This poses a critical safety risk until resolved.

Early detection can help you avoid a repair of about $0.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Recall Campaigns1

Service Bulletins4

Campaign counts apply to this model year, not your VIN's repair status. Check your VIN with NHTSA.

Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

Air Bags8

Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency

Combined

MPG

City

MPG

Highway

MPG

Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

Practicality

The score is mainly limited by limited seating.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Enthusiasts seeking a stylish, rear-drive convertible with good fuel economy.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Drivers prioritizing trouble-free, low-maintenance ownership above all else.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2020 Fiat 124 Spider Reliability Analysis

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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Most Common Issues

1. Airbags

Most reported

Usage: 8 reports

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change (5W-40 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-40 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Inspect Brake System

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 (6 service intervals)

Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context

Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it

Full specs and trim-level context

1 recall campaign details & remedy notes

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FAQ

Is the 2020 Fiat 124 Spider reliable?

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2020 Fiat 124 Spider is 8.2/10. Reliability score is 8.2/10. NHTSA recalls: 1. Owner complaints: 8.

How practical is the 2020 Fiat 124 Spider for daily use?

Practicality score is 3.6/10. The score is mainly limited by limited seating. EPA combined economy is 29 MPG. Seating capacity is 2.

What is the overall score for the 2020 Fiat 124 Spider?

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2020 Fiat 124 Spider is 6.9/10. Overall score is 6.9/10 (Good). Confidence 55%. Maintenance 8.1/10. Practicality 3.6/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2020 Fiat 124 Spider?

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-40 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-40 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Inspect Brake System at 5,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $600 - $1,000. Repair prediction highlight: Air Bag Control Module (estimated cost Min: $0 (Recall Remedy)).

What is the MSRP range for the 2020 Fiat 124 Spider?

Base MSRP is $25,390.

What engine is in the 2020 Fiat 124 Spider?

Engine specs list 4 • 1.4.

What transmission does the 2020 Fiat 124 Spider use?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2020 Fiat 124 Spider, transmission is Automatic 6-spd. The paired drivetrain is RWD/Rear-Wheel Drive.

Does the 2020 124 Spider require Premium gas?

Manufacturer fuel recommendation: Premium.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2020 Fiat 124 Spider?

EPA combined estimate is 29 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2020 Fiat 124 Spider?

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

How many people fit in a 2020 Fiat 124 Spider?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2020 Fiat 124 Spider, seating capacity is 2.

What body style is the 2020 Fiat 124 Spider?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2020 Fiat 124 Spider, body style is chassis_cab.

What drivetrain does the 2020 Fiat 124 Spider use?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2020 Fiat 124 Spider, drivetrain is RWD/Rear-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic 6-spd.

What are the most common air bags problems on the 2020 Fiat 124 Spider?

Top complaint category: air bags (8 reports, 100% of complaints).

Are there open safety recalls on the 2020 Fiat 124 Spider?

This model year has 1 official safety campaigns listed.