The Fiat 146 A9.000 – Petrol is a 1,585 cc inline-four naturally aspirated engine produced between 1987 and 1991. It features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC), 8-valve configuration, and twin-choke carburettor fuel delivery, producing 62 kW (84 PS) at 5,600 rpm. Designed as a durable, serviceable powerplant for Fiat’s executive hatchback lineup, it utilises a cast-iron block with an aluminium cylinder head and chain-driven camshaft for longevity.
Fitted to the Fiat 146 1.6 SX and 146 Super models, the A9.000 engine was engineered for balanced performance and urban drivability. It was paired with a 5-speed manual transmission and featured electronic ignition and a dual exhaust system on higher trims. Emissions compliance was achieved through exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) and catalytic converter technology, enabling adherence to EU Directive 70/220/EEC (Phase III) in key European markets.
One documented service concern involves carburettor icing observed in cold climates during low-load operation, particularly due to inadequate heat riser valve function. This issue was addressed in Fiat Technical Bulletin TB-ME-039 (1988), which recommended inspection of the intake manifold heat passage and specified use of an upgraded bi-metallic heat riser to improve cold-weather drivability and idle stability.
Production years 1987–1989 comply with EU Directive 70/220/EEC (Phase III); 1990–1991 models may meet national Italian emissions standards depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5686).
The Fiat 146 A9.000 – Petrol is a 1,585 cc inline-four naturally aspirated engine developed for executive hatchbacks (1987–1991). It combines SOHC valvetrain architecture with twin-choke carburettor fuel delivery to deliver refined mid-range performance. Designed to meet evolving EU emissions standards, it balances performance with environmental compliance through EGR and catalytic converter systems.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,585 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, SOHC, 8-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 78.0 mm × 82.0 mm | |
| Power output | 62 kW (84 PS) @ 5,600 rpm | |
| Torque | 128 Nm @ 3,200 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Weber 32/36 DGV twin-choke carburettor | |
| Emissions standard | EU Directive 70/220/EEC (Phase III) | |
| Compression ratio | 9.3:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven camshaft | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-40 (API SF) | |
| Dry weight | 143 kg |
The SOHC carburetted design offers predictable throttle response but requires periodic adjustment of the twin-choke carburettor to maintain drivability. SAE 10W-40 API SF oil is essential for camshaft and valve train protection under sustained load. Regular valve clearance checks (every 20,000 km) prevent noise and performance loss. The carburettor is prone to icing in cold climates; post-1988 models benefit from upgraded bi-metallic heat riser per TB-ME-039. Catalytic converters on export models require lead-free fuel to prevent poisoning. Heat riser valve operation should be verified to ensure proper manifold warming and prevent hesitation during cold starts.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 10W-40 API SF specification (Fiat TB-ME-039). Zinc content critical for flat-tappet cam protection.
Emissions: EU Directive 70/220/EEC Phase III applies to 1987–1989 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5686). 1990–1991 units meet national Italian standards.
Power Ratings: Measured under UN ECE Regulation 85. Output varies slightly with carburettor calibration and altitude (Fiat TIS M146-ENG-02).
Fiat Technical Information System (TIS): Docs M146-ENG-02, M146-FUEL-02, TB-ME-039
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5686)
UN ECE Regulation 85: Measurement of Power of Engine Types
The Fiat 146 A9.000 – Petrol was used across Fiat's 146 series platform with longitudinal mounting and utilised in both standard and uprated configurations. This engine received application-specific adaptations—performance cam profiles in the Super variant and emissions control hardware in export markets—and from 1988 incorporated an upgraded heat riser valve and revised EGR calibration, creating service differentiation. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine number stamped horizontally on the right-side engine block near the transmission bellhousing (Fiat TIS M146-ID-02). The fifth character of the VIN indicates engine type ('A' for A9.000 series). Pre-1988 models have chrome valve covers with Weber carburettor; post-1988 units use black valve covers with updated gasket. Critical differentiation from 1.3L variants: A9.000 has 78 mm bore (measurable via spark plug hole) and uses a larger intake manifold. Service parts require model-year verification—heat riser valves before 07/1988 are incompatible with later units due to bi-metallic upgrade (Fiat TB-ME-039).
The A9.000's primary reliability risk is carburettor icing on pre-1988 units, with elevated incidence in cold climates or low-load driving. Internal Fiat service reports from 1989 indicated a notable number of early engines required heat riser service before 80,000 km, while VCA historic vehicle inspection data shows carburettor and ignition faults dominate emissions test failures. Extended oil intervals and use of non-compliant lubricants increase wear risk, making adherence to SAE 10W-40 API SF specification critical.
Analysis derived from Fiat technical bulletins (1987-1992) and UK VCA historic vehicle inspection data (1980-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FIAT 146-A9-000.
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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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