The Fiat 278 A2.000 is a 1,242 cc, inline‑three petrol engine produced between 2003 and 2007. It features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) design with 12 valves and port fuel injection. This simple, robust architecture was engineered for cost-effective urban mobility, delivering adequate power for city driving.
Fitted primarily to the Fiat Panda (169) and the Lancia Ypsilon (843) models, the 278 A2.000 was designed for maximum fuel efficiency and low-cost ownership in the supermini segment. Emissions compliance was achieved through basic engine management and a catalytic converter, allowing it to meet Euro 4 standards upon its introduction.
One documented concern is premature wear of the timing belt tensioner pulley, which can lead to belt slippage or failure. This issue, referenced in Fiat Technical Service Bulletin TSB‑03‑07‑01, is often linked to material fatigue. Fiat later revised the tensioner design in subsequent production runs to improve durability.
Production years 2003–2007 meet Euro 4 standards for relevant markets (EU Type Approval e13*2001/27*0267).
The Fiat 278 A2.000 is a 1,242 cc inline‑three petrol engine engineered for superminis (2003-2007). It combines a simple SOHC valvetrain with port fuel injection to deliver reliable, economical performance. Designed to meet Euro 4 standards, it prioritizes low running costs and ease of maintenance for urban drivers.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,242 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑3, SOHC, 12‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 72.0 mm × 76.4 mm | |
| Power output | 44–51 kW (60–70 PS) | |
| Torque | 102–108 Nm @ 3,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi-point port injection | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 4 | |
| Compression ratio | 11.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Belt‑driven | |
| Oil type | Fiat 9.55535‑S1 (SAE 10W‑40) | |
| Dry weight | 85 kg |
The SOHC design provides adequate power for city driving but requires strict adherence to the 60,000 km or 4-year timing belt replacement interval to prevent catastrophic failure. Fiat 9.55535-S1 (10W-40) oil is recommended for its compatibility with the engine's materials. The timing belt tensioner is a known weak point; inspection and replacement per Fiat TSB 03-07-01 are advised, especially on higher-mileage examples. The engine's simplicity makes it relatively easy and inexpensive to service.
Oil Specs: Recommends Fiat 9.55535-S1 (SAE 10W-40) specification (Fiat TSB 03-07-01). Compatible with ACEA A3/B4.
Emissions: Euro 4 certification applies to all production years (2003-2007) for EU markets (EU Type Approval e13*2001/27*0267).
Power Ratings: Measured under ECE R85 standards. Output varies by model application (Fiat Technical Specification Sheet).
Fiat Technical Information System: Docs 9.278.00, TSB 03-07-01
European Commission Type Approval Database (e13*2001/27*0267)
Fiat EPC (Electronic Parts Catalogue)
ECE Regulation No. 85 (Engine Power Measurement)
The Fiat 278 A2.000 was used across Fiat's supermini platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received minor platform-specific adaptations, such as accessory bracket variations for the Panda and Ypsilon, creating no significant interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front face of the cylinder block, near the gearbox flange (Fiat Workshop Manual 9.278.00). The 8th VIN digit typically corresponds to the engine code for Fiat vehicles. Visually, the engine is identifiable by its compact, three-cylinder layout and the single camshaft cover. Critical differentiation from the 188A4000: The 278 A2.000 is a 1.2L 12-valve engine, while the 188A4000 is a 1.1L 8-valve variant. Service parts for the cylinder head and valvetrain are not interchangeable.
The 278 A2.000's primary reliability risk is timing belt tensioner failure, with elevated incidence in vehicles that exceed the recommended service interval. Fiat internal reports noted a correlation between age/mileage and pulley bearing wear, while owner data suggests ignition system issues are also common. Neglecting the timing belt service makes engine replacement likely.
Analysis derived from Fiat technical bulletins (2003-2007) and aggregated European owner association failure statistics (2005-2015). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FIAT 278-A2-000.
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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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