The Fiat 4HR is a 1,600 cc, inline-four diesel engine produced between 2012 and 2018. It belongs to Fiat's MultiJet II family, featuring high-pressure common-rail direct injection, dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), and 16 valves. In standard tune, it delivers 70 kW (95 PS) at 4,000 rpm and 230 Nm of torque at 1,500 rpm, providing strong low-end pulling power ideal for urban and light-duty applications.
Fitted primarily to the Fiat 500L (2013–2018), Fiat Punto Evo (2012–2014), and Lancia Ypsilon (2012–2014), the 4HR was engineered for responsive city driving with an emphasis on fuel economy and emissions compliance. Emissions control is achieved through exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), diesel particulate filter (DPF), and selective catalytic reduction (SCR) in select markets, meeting Euro 5 standards across its production run (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5686).
One documented service concern involves premature wear of the timing belt tensioner, particularly in high-temperature environments or under extended service intervals. This issue is referenced in Fiat Service Information Bulletin 32/2011, which attributes wear to inadequate spring preload in early tensioner designs. From 2014, revised tensioner assemblies were implemented across production lines to improve long-term belt integrity.
All production years (2012–2018) meet Euro 5 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5686).
The Fiat 4HR is a 1,600 cc inline-four turbo-diesel engine engineered for compact and small family vehicles (2012–2018). It combines MultiJet II common-rail injection with DOHC 16-valve architecture to deliver strong low-RPM torque and responsive drivability. Designed to meet Euro 5 emissions standards, it prioritises fuel economy, serviceability, and durability in mixed driving conditions.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,600 cc | |
| Fuel type | Diesel | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 79.0 mm × 80.5 mm | |
| Power output | 70 kW (95 PS) @ 4,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 230 Nm @ 1,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | MultiJet II common-rail (up to 1,600 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
| Compression ratio | 16.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Variable geometry turbo (VGT) | |
| Timing system | Timing belt (interval: 120,000 km or 6 years) | |
| Oil type | SAE 5W-40 (API CK-4, ACEA C3) | |
| Dry weight | 142 kg |
The VGT turbo provides strong low-RPM torque ideal for city driving but requires strict adherence to 120,000 km or 6-year timing belt service intervals to prevent catastrophic failure. Use of SAE 5W-40 oil meeting ACEA C3 specifications is essential for turbocharger and EGR system longevity. Extended idling in hot climates increases thermal stress on the tensioner, accelerating wear. Fuel quality is critical—low-sulfur diesel meeting EN 590 standards is required to prevent high-pressure injector clogging. Post-2014 models feature upgraded tensioner assemblies; pre-2014 units should be inspected per Fiat SIB 32/2011. The DPF system requires regular highway runs to maintain regeneration cycles and prevent clogging.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 5W-40 meeting ACEA C3 (Fiat SIB 32/2011). Compatible with API CK-4 standards.
Emissions: All models meet Euro 5 standards (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5686). No Euro 4 variants were produced.
Power Ratings: Measured under ECE R85 standards. Output remains consistent across fuel grades meeting EN 590 (Fiat TIS Doc. A20150).
Fiat Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A4HR01, A4HR02, SIB 32/2011
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5686)
European Commission Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
The Fiat 4HR was used across Fiat's 4-series platforms with transverse mounting and shared architecture with Lancia derivatives. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake manifolds in the 500L and revised ECU tuning in the Punto Evo-and from 2014 the updated tensioner design improved belt reliability, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front-facing side of the cylinder block, near the transmission bellhousing (Fiat TIS A4HR06). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('F' for 4HR). Pre-2014 models have a black plastic cam cover with silver Fiat logo; post-2014 units retain the same cover but feature a revised tensioner housing. Critical differentiation from 1.6 JTD: The 4HR uses MultiJet II injection and a VGT turbo, while earlier JTD units use fixed geometry turbos. Service parts require production date verification—timing kits for engines before 06/2014 are incompatible with later units due to tensioner redesign (Fiat SIB 32/2011).
The 4HR's primary reliability risk is timing belt tensioner wear, with elevated incidence in hot climates and extended service cycles. Internal Fiat quality reports from 2015 indicated a significant number of pre-2014 engines required premature belt replacement before 100,000 km, while VCA MOT data links a notable share of emissions failures to DPF clogging in high-mileage units. Infrequent oil changes and poor fuel quality increase turbo and EGR stress, making adherence to service intervals and fuel specifications critical.
Analysis derived from Fiat technical bulletins (2012–2016) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2014–2019). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FIAT 4-HR.
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