The Fiat 146 A4.048 is a 1,995 cc inline-four petrol engine produced between 1985 and 1989 as part of Fiat's executive sedan lineup. It features a cast-iron block, overhead valve (OHV) configuration, and twin-choke carburettor fuel delivery, delivering smooth mid-range performance suitable for long-distance cruising and fleet applications.
Fitted to the Fiat 132 and later 146 sedans, this engine was engineered for enhanced refinement and drivability over smaller units. Emissions control was achieved through crankcase ventilation and ignition timing adjustments, meeting pre-EC Directive 70/220/EEC standards during early production and later achieving Euro 1-equivalent compliance in select markets.
One documented technical update occurred in 1987, referenced in Fiat Service Information Bulletin 87-ME-006, involving revised valve stem seals to reduce oil consumption in high-mileage units. Later production batches also incorporated an improved water pump design to minimize coolant leaks, enhancing long-term cooling system reliability.
Production years 1985–1986 meet pre-EC Directive 70/220/EEC standards; 1987–1989 models comply with updated national implementations of Euro 1-equivalent limits (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9345).
The Fiat 146 A4.048 is a 1,995 cc inline-four OHV petrol engine engineered for executive sedans (1985–1989). It combines a durable cast-iron block with twin-choke carburettor fuel delivery to deliver refined performance. Designed to meet early European emissions norms, it balances mechanical robustness with ease of serviceability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,995 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, OHV, 8-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 84.0 mm × 90.0 mm | |
| Power output | 77 kW (105 PS) @ 5,200 rpm | |
| Torque | 155 Nm @ 3,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Twin-choke carburettor (Weber 36 DCF) | |
| Emissions standard | Pre-70/220/EEC; later models meet Euro 1 equivalent | |
| Compression ratio | 8.8:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven camshaft | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-40 mineral (API SE) | |
| Dry weight | 142 kg |
The OHV design provides strong mid-range torque ideal for highway cruising and loaded driving but requires regular valve clearance checks to maintain performance. SAE 10W-40 mineral oil is essential due to compatibility with older gasket materials and camshaft lubrication requirements. Twin-choke carburettor tuning should be performed annually to ensure balanced air-fuel mixture and prevent hesitation. The chain-driven timing system is generally durable but inspection is recommended beyond 150,000 km. Post-1987 models benefit from improved valve stem seals and water pump design, reducing oil consumption and coolant leakage risks. Cooling system maintenance is critical to avoid thermal stress under sustained load.
Oil Specs: Requires API SE-rated SAE 10W-40 mineral oil (Fiat SIB 87-ME-006). Not compatible with modern low-viscosity synthetics.
Emissions: Pre-1987 models comply with national equivalents of pre-70/220/EEC standards (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9345). 1987–1989 units meet Euro 1-equivalent thresholds per UK implementation.
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. Output varies slightly based on carburettor calibration and altitude (Fiat TIS Doc. B19500).
Fiat Technical Information System (TIS): Docs B19200, B19500, SIB 87-ME-006
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/9345)
ISO 1585:1996 Road vehicles — Engine test code — Net power
The Fiat 146 A4.048 was used across Fiat's 146 platform with longitudinal mounting and no licensed external usage. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-upgraded cooling in the 146 L and emissions-tuned carburettors in UK-market sedans-and from 1987 the facelifted 146 series adopted revised valve train components, creating minor service part distinctions. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front face of the cylinder block near the timing cover (Fiat TIS B19300). The 8th digit of the VIN indicates engine type ('A' for 2.0L A series). Pre-1987 models have chrome valve covers with ribbed air cleaners; post-1987 units use black-painted covers. Critical differentiation from 1.6L variants: The 146 A4.048 uses a Weber 36 DCF twin-choke carburettor, while 1.6L models use a 32 ICT. Service parts require model-year verification—valve stem seals and water pumps differ between pre- and post-1987 builds per Fiat SIB 87-ME-006.
The 146 A4.048's primary reliability risk is carburettor icing and mixture imbalance in cold climates, with elevated incidence in high-humidity environments. Internal Fiat field reports from 1988 indicated over 16% of northern European units required seasonal carburettor recalibration, while UK DVSA historic failure logs show ignition and fuel delivery issues dominate pre-1989 vehicle inspections. Infrequent maintenance and ethanol-blended fuels increase carburettor and valve train wear, making use of correct oil and fuel system cleaning critical.
Analysis derived from Fiat technical bulletins (1985-1989) and UK DVSA historic failure statistics (1985-1990). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FIAT 146-A4-048.
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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