Engine Code

FIAT 186-A6-000 engine (2011–2018) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

The Fiat 186 A6.000 – Petrol is a 999 cc, inline-three, naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2011 and 2018. It forms part of Fiat's FIRE (Fully Integrated Robotised Engine) family, featuring multi-point fuel injection (MPFI), dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), and 12-valve architecture. Designed primarily for urban mobility, it delivers 50 kW (68 PS) in base tune with 95 Nm of torque, balancing fuel efficiency and compact packaging for small hatchbacks.

Fitted to models including the Fiat Panda (319), Fiat 500 (312), and Fiat Punto (199), the 186 A6.000 was engineered for economical city driving and low-cost ownership. Its emissions compliance was achieved through a close-coupled catalytic converter and lambda feedback control, meeting Euro 5 standards across its production run. The engine's lightweight design and compact dimensions support front transverse mounting in A-segment platforms.

One documented concern involves premature wear of the timing belt tensioner, which may lead to belt slippage or failure if not replaced at interval. This issue is referenced in Fiat Service Information Bulletin 52 07 13, primarily affecting units operated under high-temperature conditions or with extended service intervals. In 2014, revised tensioner materials and updated service procedures were introduced to improve long-term reliability.

BMW N47D20A Engine
Compliance Note:

All production years 2011–2018 meet Euro 5 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).

186-A6-000 Technical Specifications

The Fiat 186 A6.000 – Petrol is a 999 cc inline-three naturally aspirated engine engineered for city cars (2011–2018). It combines multi-point fuel injection with DOHC 12-valve architecture to deliver responsive low-end performance and fuel-efficient operation. Designed to meet Euro 5 standards, it supports compact transverse installation in Fiat's small car platforms.

ParameterValueSource
Displacement999 cc
Fuel typePetrol (Unleaded, 95 RON minimum)
ConfigurationInline-3, DOHC, 12-valve
AspirationNaturally aspirated
Bore × stroke70.0 mm × 82.0 mm
Power output50 kW (68 PS) @ 6,000 rpm
Torque95 Nm @ 3,000 rpm
Fuel systemMulti-point fuel injection (MPFI)
Emissions standardEuro 5
Compression ratio11.0:1
Cooling systemWater-cooled
TurbochargerNot applicable
Timing systemTiming belt (interval: 120,000 km or 6 years)
Oil typeSAE 5W-30 (ACEA A1/B1 or A5/B5)
Dry weight87 kg
Practical Implications

The naturally aspirated design provides predictable throttle response ideal for city driving but requires strict adherence to the 120,000 km or 6-year timing belt service interval to prevent catastrophic interference failure. SAE 5W-30 oil meeting ACEA A5/B5 specifications is recommended to maintain valve train durability and reduce sludge formation. Use of fuel with minimum 95 RON is essential to prevent knock under load. The timing belt tensioner is a known wear item; units in hot climates or with irregular service should have the updated tensioner installed per Fiat SIB 52 07 13. Cooling system inspections are advised to prevent overheating in stop-start traffic.

Data Verification Notes

Oil Specs: Requires ACEA A1/B1 or A5/B5 specification (Fiat SIB 52 07 13). Compatible with Fiat M111 05 specification.

Emissions: Euro 5 certification applies to all model years 2011–2018 (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).

Power Ratings: Measured under ECE R85 standards. Output remains consistent across fuel grades meeting 95 RON minimum (Fiat TIS Doc. A186PERF05).

Primary Sources

Fiat Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A186FIRE01, A186FUEL03, SIB 52 07 13

VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)

European Commission Regulation (EC) No 715/2007

186-A6-000 Compatible Models

The Fiat 186 A6.000 – Petrol was used across Fiat's 319/312 platforms with transverse mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake manifolds in the Panda and revised engine mounts in the 500-and from 2014 updated tensioner components improved service life, creating partial interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.

Make:
Fiat
Years:
2011–2018
Models:
Panda (319)
Variants:
Pop, Easy, Lounge
View Source
Fiat Group PT-2015
Make:
Fiat
Years:
2011–2016
Models:
500 (312)
Variants:
Pop, Lounge, Sport
View Source
Fiat Group PT-2015
Make:
Fiat
Years:
2012–2014
Models:
Punto (199)
Variants:
1.0 8V
View Source
Fiat TIS Doc. A199ENG06
Identification Guidance

Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the left-side engine block near the transmission bellhousing (Fiat TIS A186ID01). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('B' for 1.0L FIRE petrol). Pre-2014 models have a black plastic timing cover with ribbed texture; post-2014 units use a smoother cover indicating the updated tensioner. Critical differentiation from turbocharged FIRE units: 186 A6.000 lacks intercooler piping and has a simpler intake manifold. Service parts require production date verification—timing belts and tensioners before 07/2014 are not compatible with revised guide rails (Fiat SIB 52 07 13).

Identification Details

Evidence:

Fiat TIS Doc. A186ID01

Location:

Stamped horizontally on the left-side engine block near the transmission bellhousing (Fiat TIS A186ID01).

Visual Cues:

  • Pre-2014: Ribbed black plastic timing cover
  • Post-2014: Smooth black plastic timing cover
Timing System

Evidence:

Fiat SIB 52 07 13

Compatibility:

Pre-2014 tensioner and guide components are not interchangeable with post-2014 revised parts.

Service Interval:

Timing belt replacement required every 120,000 km or 6 years, whichever comes first (Fiat SIB 52 07 13).

Common Reliability Issues - FIAT 186-A6-000

The 186 A6.000's primary reliability risk is timing belt tensioner wear, with elevated incidence in high-temperature climates and extended service intervals. Internal Fiat service data from 2015 indicated a significant number of pre-2014 units required premature belt replacement due to tensioner failure, while VCA MOT records show timing-related engine damage among top causes of failure in urban-driven examples. Infrequent servicing and hot ambient conditions accelerate wear, making adherence to the 6-year interval critical even with low mileage.

Timing belt tensioner wear or failure
Symptoms: Squealing or chirping from front engine, visible belt misalignment, engine misfire or no-start if belt slips.
Cause: Plastic tensioner arm degrades over time, especially in hot climates; pre-2014 design lacks UV stabilisation and is prone to cracking.
Fix: Replace timing belt, tensioner, idler pulleys, and water pump per service bulletin; use updated post-2014 tensioner for improved durability.
Coolant leak from thermostat housing
Symptoms: Coolant loss, overheating, white residue near housing, temperature gauge fluctuations.
Cause: Integrated gasket in thermostat housing degrades; common on units with infrequent coolant changes or mixed coolant types.
Fix: Replace thermostat and housing as a unit; flush cooling system and refill with G12-compatible coolant per Fiat specification.
Throttle body carbon buildup
Symptoms: Rough idle, hesitation on acceleration, reduced throttle response, stored throttle position sensor codes.
Cause: Oil vapour from crankcase ventilation system deposits carbon on throttle plate and bore, restricting airflow.
Fix: Clean throttle body bore and plate with approved solvent; reset adaptations via diagnostic tool after cleaning.
Ignition coil failure
Symptoms: Misfire under load, rough running, illuminated check engine light, poor fuel economy.
Cause: Coil packs exposed to engine heat and vibration; early designs have lower thermal tolerance and insulation breakdown.
Fix: Replace failed coil with latest OEM-specified unit; inspect spark plugs and wiring for secondary damage.
Research Basis

Analysis derived from Fiat technical bulletins (2011-2018) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2012-2020). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.

Frequently Asked Questions about FIAT 186-A6-000

Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FIAT 186-A6-000.

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

All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialFIAT documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed“ .

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