The Fiat 188 A4.000 – Petrol is a 999 cc, inline-three, naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2016 and 2022. It belongs to Fiat's FIRE (Fully Integrated Robotised Engine) Evo family, featuring MultiAir2 variable valve timing, dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), and 12-valve configuration. Delivering 54 kW (73 PS) and 95 Nm of torque, it is engineered for responsive urban performance and compact packaging in A-segment vehicles.
Fitted to the Fiat 500 (312) and Fiat Panda (319), the 188 A4.000 was designed to balance fuel efficiency with improved drivability over its predecessor. Its emissions compliance is achieved via a close-coupled catalytic converter and lambda feedback control, meeting Euro 6b standards across its production run. The engine supports front transverse mounting and is paired with a 5-speed manual or automated manual transmission (Dualogic).
One documented concern involves intermittent throttle response issues linked to the MultiAir2 electro-hydraulic actuator, particularly in early production units. This issue, referenced in Fiat Service Information Bulletin 52 11 16, is associated with air ingress in the hydraulic circuit under high-temperature operation. In 2018, revised actuator seals and updated bleed procedures were implemented to enhance system reliability.
All production years 2016–2022 meet Euro 6b emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789).
The Fiat 188 A4.000 – Petrol is a 999 cc inline-three naturally aspirated engine with MultiAir2 technology (2016–2022). It combines variable valve timing with DOHC 12-valve architecture to deliver improved low-end torque and fuel efficiency. Designed to meet Euro 6b standards, it supports transverse installation in Fiat's compact platforms.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 999 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded, 95 RON minimum) | |
| Configuration | Inline-3, DOHC, 12-valve, MultiAir2 | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 70.0 mm × 82.0 mm | |
| Power output | 54 kW (73 PS) @ 6,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 95 Nm @ 3,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi-point fuel injection with MultiAir2 inlet control | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6b | |
| Compression ratio | 11.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Timing belt (interval: 120,000 km or 6 years) | |
| Oil type | SAE 5W-30 (ACEA A5/B5) | |
| Dry weight | 88 kg |
The MultiAir2 system enhances low-RPM torque and throttle response but requires strict adherence to the 120,000 km or 6-year timing belt service interval to prevent interference damage. SAE 5W-30 oil meeting ACEA A5/B5 specifications is required to maintain hydraulic actuator function and prevent valve train wear. Use of 95 RON fuel is essential to avoid knock under load. The MultiAir2 actuator is sensitive to air ingress; units in hot climates should follow the revised bleed procedure per Fiat SIB 52 11 16. Cooling system maintenance is recommended to prevent overheating in urban driving conditions.
Oil Specs: Requires ACEA A5/B5 specification (Fiat SIB 52 11 16). Compatible with Fiat M111 05 specification.
Emissions: Euro 6b certification applies to all model years 2016–2022 (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789).
Power Ratings: Measured under ECE R85 standards. Output remains consistent across fuel grades meeting 95 RON minimum (Fiat TIS Doc. A188PERF05).
Fiat Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A188FIRE01, A188MULTI03, SIB 52 11 16
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/6789)
European Commission Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
The Fiat 188 A4.000 – Petrol was used across Fiat's 312/319 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 2018 updated MultiAir2 actuator seals improved system reliability, creating partial 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 A188ID01). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('B' for 1.0L FIRE Evo petrol). Pre-2018 models have a ribbed black plastic timing cover; post-2018 units use a smooth cover indicating the updated MultiAir2 seal. Critical differentiation from turbocharged FIRE units: 188 A4.000 lacks intercooler piping and has a simpler intake manifold. Service parts require production date verification—MultiAir2 actuators before 03/2018 are not compatible with revised bleed procedures (Fiat SIB 52 11 16).
The 188 A4.000's primary reliability risk is MultiAir2 actuator performance degradation, with elevated incidence in high-temperature climates and extended service intervals. Internal Fiat service data from 2019 indicated a significant number of pre-2018 units required actuator bleeding or replacement due to air ingress, while VCA MOT records show throttle-related faults 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.
Analysis derived from Fiat technical bulletins (2016-2022) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2017-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FIAT 188-A4-000.
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