The Fiat 199 B8.000 is a 1,368 cc, inline-four petrol engine produced between 2005 and 2011. It belongs to the second generation of Fiat's FIRE (Fully Integrated Robotised Engine) family, designed for compact front-wheel-drive platforms. Featuring multi-point fuel injection (MPFI), single overhead camshaft (SOHC), and 8 valves, it delivers 50 kW (68 PS) with 115 Nm of torque. This configuration prioritises low-cost manufacturing, ease of maintenance, and urban fuel efficiency.
Fitted to models such as the Fiat Punto (188), Fiat Grande Punto (199), and Fiat Idea (350), the 199 B8.000 was engineered for entry-level buyers seeking economical transportation. It meets Euro 4 emissions standards through a three-way catalytic converter and closed-loop lambda control. The engine's simple valvetrain and naturally aspirated design contribute to its durability under high-mileage city operation.
One documented concern is premature wear of the timing belt tensioner, particularly in vehicles with extended service intervals. This issue, referenced in Fiat Service Information Bulletin 41 001 07, stems from inadequate spring loading under prolonged heat exposure. From 2008 onward, Fiat introduced a revised tensioner assembly with improved spring preload and rubber damping to enhance reliability.
All production units comply with Euro 4 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/4567).
The Fiat 199 B8.000 is a 1,368 cc inline-four petrol engine designed for entry-level compact cars (2005–2011). It combines multi-point fuel injection with a single overhead camshaft to deliver modest power and high fuel efficiency in urban environments. Engineered to meet Euro 4 standards, it balances affordability, ease of servicing, and emissions compliance for cost-conscious drivers.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,368 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded, 95 RON min) | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, SOHC, 8-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 76.0 mm × 75.0 mm | |
| Power output | 50 kW (68 PS) @ 5,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 115 Nm @ 2,750 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi-point fuel injection (MPFI) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 4 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.3:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Timing belt (interval: 90,000 km) | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-40 (API SL/CF or ACEA A3/B3) | |
| Dry weight | 94 kg |
The SOHC 8-valve design provides smooth low-RPM operation ideal for city driving but requires strict adherence to the 90,000 km timing belt replacement interval to prevent catastrophic failure. SAE 10W-40 oil meeting API SL/CF or ACEA A3/B3 specifications is recommended to ensure valve train lubrication and thermal stability. Extended idling or short-trip usage may accelerate tensioner wear due to condensation and oil degradation. The MPFI system is robust but sensitive to poor fuel quality, which can lead to injector coking and reduced performance. The three-way catalytic converter requires regular highway runs to prevent carbon buildup and maintain lambda sensor accuracy. Pre-2008 models should have the tensioner upgraded per Fiat SIB 41 001 07.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 10W-40 meeting API SL/CF or ACEA A3/B3 (Fiat SIB 41 001 07). Use of lower-viscosity oils may reduce valvetrain protection.
Emissions: All models meet Euro 4 standards (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/4567). No Euro 5 variants exist for this engine code.
Power Ratings: Measured under ECE R85 standards. Output optimized for drivability over peak performance (Fiat TIS Doc. FIRE-II-003).
Fiat Technical Information System (TIS): Docs FIRE-II-003, SIB 41 001 07
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/4567)
ECE Regulation No. 85 (Engine Power Measurement)
The Fiat 199 B8.000 was used across Fiat's 188/199 platforms with transverse mounting and shared with Lancia for badge-engineered variants. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake manifolds in the Idea and revised throttle mapping in the Grande Punto-and from 2008 the updated Punto Evo adopted the revised tensioner, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped vertically on the left-side engine block near the transmission bellhousing (Fiat TIS FIRE-II-003). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('A' for 1.4L FIRE). Pre-2008 models have a silver valve cover with a black plastic cam cover; post-2008 units use an all-black cover. Critical differentiation from 16-valve units: The 199 B8.000 uses a timing belt and SOHC 8-valve head, while 16V variants use a timing chain and DOHC. Service parts require production date verification—timing belt kits for engines before 03/2008 are incompatible with later units due to tensioner redesign (Fiat SIB 41 001 07).
The 199 B8.000's primary reliability risk is timing belt tensioner failure on early builds, with elevated incidence in vehicles used for short urban trips. Internal Fiat quality reports from 2007 indicated a measurable number of pre-2008 engines requiring tensioner replacement before 90,000 km, while UK DVSA data links a portion of emissions-related MOT failures to lambda sensor degradation in stop-start traffic. Delayed belt changes and poor oil quality increase failure risk, making service interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Fiat technical bulletins (2005–2012) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2010–2022). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FIAT 199-B8-000.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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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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