The Fiat 156 A2.048 – Petrol is a 1,242 cc, inline-four, naturally aspirated engine produced between 2012 and 2018. It is part of Fiat's FIRE (Fully Integrated Robotised Engine) Evo family, featuring multi-point fuel injection (MPFI), dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), and a 16-valve configuration. Delivering 54 kW (74 PS) and 102 Nm of torque, it was engineered for urban efficiency and low-cost ownership in compact hatchbacks.
Fitted primarily to the Fiat Punto (199), Fiat 500L (334), and Lancia Ypsilon (843), the 156 A2.048 – Petrol was designed for city driving and entry-level applications. Emissions compliance was achieved through a three-way catalytic converter and closed-loop lambda control, meeting Euro 5 standards across its production run as confirmed by VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7102.
One documented service concern involves early wear of the timing belt tensioner, particularly in high-temperature or high-mileage environments. This issue, referenced in Fiat Service Information Bulletin 55/2014, is linked to polymer degradation under sustained thermal stress. In 2015, Fiat introduced an updated tensioner with enhanced heat resistance across the FIRE Evo engine range.
All models comply with Euro 5 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7102).
The Fiat 156 A2.048 – Petrol is a 1,242 cc inline-four naturally aspirated engine engineered for compact and subcompact hatchbacks (2012–2018). It combines multi-point fuel injection with a 16-valve DOHC layout to deliver smooth low-end response and consistent fuel efficiency. Designed to meet Euro 5 emissions standards, it balances affordability, serviceability, and everyday usability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,242 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded, 95 RON min) | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 70.0 mm × 80.5 mm | |
| Power output | 54 kW (74 PS) @ 5,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 102 Nm @ 2,750 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi-point fuel injection (MPFI) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
| Compression ratio | 11.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Rubber timing belt (interval: 120,000 km or 6 years) | |
| Oil type | SAE 5W-30 (API SN/CF, ACEA A5/B5) | |
| Dry weight | 96 kg |
The naturally aspirated DOHC design provides predictable throttle response ideal for city driving but requires strict adherence to the 120,000 km or 6-year timing belt replacement interval to prevent interference engine damage. SAE 5W-30 oil meeting API SN/ACEA A5 standards is required for optimal valve train and piston ring protection. The 2015-updated tensioner improves durability in high-temperature conditions; pre-2015 units should be retrofitted per service bulletin. Fuel quality is critical—low-octane petrol increases knock risk due to the 11.0:1 compression ratio. Regular air filter and spark plug maintenance ensures consistent combustion and emissions compliance.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 5W-30 API SN/CF or ACEA A5/B5 (Fiat SIB 55/2014). Not compatible with long-life or low-SAPS specifications.
Emissions: All production models meet Euro 5 standards (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7102).
Power Ratings: Measured under ECE R85 standards. Output derated on ethanol-blended fuels (Fiat TIS Doc. F156A2048-PERF).
Fiat Technical Information System (TIS): Docs F156A2048-ENG, F156A2048-FSI, SIB 55/2014
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/7102)
European Commission Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
The Fiat 156 A2.048 – Petrol was used across Fiat's 199/334 platforms with transverse mounting and front-wheel drive. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake manifolds in the Punto and revised engine mounts in the 500L-and from 2015 the updated tensioner design was implemented across all applications, creating service part interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the left-side engine block near the transmission bellhousing (Fiat TIS F156A2048-ID). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('D' for 156 A2.048 petrol). Pre-2015 models have a black plastic timing cover with a single access plug; post-2015 units feature a redesigned tensioner housing with improved polymer resistance. Critical differentiation from 1.4L units: The 156 A2.048 has a four-cylinder layout with a shorter stroke. Service parts require production date verification—timing belts and tensioners before 06/2015 are not interchangeable with later units due to design revisions (Fiat SIB 55/2014).
The 156 A2.048 – Petrol's primary reliability risk is timing belt tensioner wear, with elevated incidence in high-temperature or stop-start urban environments. Internal Fiat quality reports from 2016 indicated a notable number of pre-2015 engines required premature belt service due to tensioner degradation, while VCA MOT data shows timing-related failures contribute to a measurable share of engine breakdowns in city-driven examples. Extended service intervals and poor coolant maintenance increase thermal stress, making adherence to replacement schedules and coolant quality critical.
Analysis derived from Fiat technical bulletins (2012–2018) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015–2022). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FIAT 156-A2-048.
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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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