Engine Code

FIAT 182-A5-000 engine (1995–2000) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

The Fiat 182 A5.000 – Petrol is a 1,581 cc, inline-four, naturally aspirated engine produced between 1995 and 2000. It features a cast-iron block, aluminium cylinder head, and belt-driven SOHC valvetrain with 8 valves. In standard configuration, it delivers 59 kW (80 PS) at 5,500 rpm and 123 Nm of torque at 2,500 rpm, offering strong low-end responsiveness for urban and light highway use.

Fitted to models such as the Fiat Bravo (182), Fiat Brava (182), and Fiat Marea (185), the 182 A5.000 was engineered for balanced performance and emissions compliance. Emissions control is achieved via a catalytic converter and lambda sensor, meeting Euro 2 standards across all markets from 1996 onward.

One documented update is the introduction of a revised intake manifold and ECU mapping in 1997, improving volumetric efficiency and idle stability. This improvement, detailed in Fiat Service Information Bulletin 96-14, also reduced hydrocarbon emissions. From 1998 onward, Fiat introduced a modified valve stem seal design and updated timing belt tensioner, enhancing long-term reliability under sustained loads.

BMW N47D20A Engine
Compliance Note:

All units produced from 1996–2000 comply with Euro 2 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/8902). Pre-1996 models meet Euro 1 benchmarks.

182-A5-000 Technical Specifications

The Fiat 182 A5.000 – Petrol is a 1,581 cc inline-four naturally aspirated engine designed for compact and mid-size vehicles (1995–2000). It combines a multi-point fuel injection system with a single overhead camshaft to deliver smooth performance and improved emissions compliance. Engineered for durability and ease of service, it supports both economy-focused and higher-output tuning variants.

ParameterValueSource
Displacement1,581 cc
Fuel typePetrol (Unleaded RON 95)
ConfigurationInline-4, SOHC, 8-valve
AspirationNaturally aspirated
Bore × stroke79.0 mm × 80.5 mm
Power output59 kW (80 PS) @ 5,500 rpm
Torque123 Nm @ 2,500 rpm
Fuel systemMagneti Marelli IAW 5AP multi-point fuel injection
Emissions standardEuro 2 (1996+); Euro 1 (1995)
Compression ratio9.5:1
Cooling systemWater-cooled
TurbochargerNot applicable
Timing systemRubber toothed belt (SOHC, front-mounted)
Oil typeSAE 10W-40 API SG/CD
Dry weight112 kg
Practical Implications

The 1.6L displacement and fuel injection system provide strong low-RPM torque ideal for city driving and light highway cruising, but require strict adherence to 60,000 km or 4-year cam belt replacement intervals to prevent interference damage. SAE 10W-40 mineral oil is sufficient, though semi-synthetic blends improve seal longevity in high-temperature climates. Fuel-injected models offer reliable cold starts and stable idle when maintained. The front-mounted timing belt is accessible but sensitive to misalignment—use OEM-specified tensioners. Post-1998 models feature improved valve stem seals and combustion efficiency, reducing oil consumption. Emissions systems require lead-free fuel to avoid catalyst poisoning.

Data Verification Notes

Oil Specs: Requires SAE 10W-40 API SG/CD specification (Fiat SIB 96-14). No BMW Longlife or ACEA standards apply.

Emissions: Euro 2 compliance confirmed for 1996–2000 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/8902). Pre-1996 units meet Euro 1 standards.

Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585. Output consistent across fuel grades RON 91–98 (Fiat TIS Doc. A18310).

Primary Sources

Fiat Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A18300, A18320, SIB 96-14

VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/8902)

ISO 1585:1996 Road vehicles — Engine test code — Net power

182-A5-000 Compatible Models

The Fiat 182 A5.000 – Petrol was used across Fiat's 182-series and 185-series platforms with transverse mounting and shared architecture with Lancia derivatives in select European markets. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake manifolds in the Bravo and revised cooling routing in the Marea-and from 1996 the facelifted Brava incorporated a catalytic converter and lambda sensor, creating emissions-based interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.

Make:
Fiat
Years:
1995–2000
Models:
Bravo (182)
Variants:
Bravo 1.6 SX
View Source
Fiat Group PT-1995
Make:
Fiat
Years:
1995–2000
Models:
Brava (182)
Variants:
Brava 1.6 SX
View Source
Fiat Group PT-1995
Make:
Fiat
Years:
1996–2000
Models:
Marea (185)
Variants:
Marea 1.6 SX
View Source
Fiat TIS Doc. A18310
Identification Guidance

Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the left-side engine block near the transmission bellhousing (Fiat TIS A18390). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('E' for 182 A5.000). Pre-1998 models have chrome valve covers with ribbed timing covers; post-1998 units use black plastic covers. Critical differentiation from 154-series: 182 A5.000 has a larger bore (79.0 mm), higher displacement (1,581 cc), and revised intake manifold. Service parts require model-year verification—timing belts for pre-1998 engines are incompatible with post-1998 revisions due to pulley diameter and tensioner changes (Fiat SIB 96-14).

Identification Details

Evidence:

Fiat TIS Doc. A18390

Location:

Stamped horizontally on the left-side engine block near the transmission bellhousing (Fiat TIS A18390).

Visual Cues:

  • Pre-1998: Chrome valve cover with ribbed black timing cover
  • Post-1998: Black plastic valve and timing covers
Compatibility Notes

Evidence:

Fiat SIB 96-14

Timing Components:

Timing belts and tensioners revised in 1998. Pre-1998 kits fit only early engines.

Catalytic Converter:

All 1996+ models include a catalytic converter and oxygen sensor; non-cat manifolds cannot be retrofitted without ECU recalibration.
Belt Replacement

Issue:

Early 182 A5.000 engines are prone to cam belt failure if not replaced every 60,000 km or 4 years due to rubber degradation and tensioner wear.

Evidence:

Fiat SIB 96-14

Recommendation:

Install updated belt and tensioner per Fiat SIB 96-14. Always inspect water pump condition during replacement.

Common Reliability Issues - FIAT 182-A5-000

The 182 A5.000 – Petrol's primary reliability risk is timing belt failure on pre-1998 units, with elevated incidence in high-temperature climates. Internal Fiat quality reports from 1997 indicated a significant number of engines suffering valve damage due to belt slippage, while VCA field data links a portion of pre-2000 MOT failures to idle instability and ECU faults. Extended service intervals and use of leaded fuel increase belt and catalyst degradation, making timely maintenance and fuel quality critical.

Timing belt wear or failure
Symptoms: Ticking noise at front of engine, sudden loss of compression, bent valves, engine won't start after cranking.
Cause: Front-mounted rubber timing belt with early tensioner design prone to stretching and tooth skipping, especially under heat stress and extended intervals.
Fix: Replace with updated OEM-specified belt and tensioner per service bulletin; inspect cam/crank alignment and water pump condition during service.
Idle instability and stalling
Symptoms: Rough idle, stalling at stops, hesitation on acceleration, fluctuating RPM.
Cause: Faulty idle air control valve (IACV) or carbon buildup in throttle body affecting airflow regulation.
Fix: Clean throttle body and IACV or replace with OEM parts; perform ECU adaptation reset after service.
Valve stem seal degradation
Symptoms: Blue smoke on cold start, increased oil consumption, carbon buildup on spark plugs.
Cause: Age-hardened rubber valve stem seals allowing oil ingress into combustion chamber during shutdown.
Fix: Replace valve stem seals with OEM parts; consider full valve job if guides are worn.
Cooling system airlocks
Symptoms: Overheating despite full coolant, erratic temperature gauge, heater inefficiency.
Cause: High-mounted thermostat and narrow radiator hose routing prone to air entrapment during refill.
Fix: Bleed system properly using elevated front end and thermostat cycling; use OEM-specified coolant mixture.
Research Basis

Analysis derived from Fiat technical bulletins (1995-2000) and UK DVSA failure statistics (1997-2006). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.

Frequently Asked Questions about FIAT 182-A5-000

Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FIAT 182-A5-000.

Research Resources

Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references

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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007

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Last Updated: 16 August 2025

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