The Fiat 552 53 268 is a 1,956 cc, inline-four, turbocharged diesel engine produced between 2005 and 2010. It features a cast-iron block, aluminium cylinder head, and belt-driven SOHC valvetrain with 8 valves. In standard tune, it produces 77 kW (105 PS) at 4,000 rpm and 280 Nm of torque at 1,800 rpm, delivering strong low-end performance ideal for commercial and passenger applications.
Fitted to core Fiat models including the Ducato (244), Scudo (270), and Talento (270), the 552 53 268 was engineered for durability, fuel efficiency, and emissions compliance in light commercial vehicles. Emissions compliance was achieved through exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) and a diesel particulate filter (DPF), allowing Euro 4 compliance across all production years (Directive 98/69/EC).
One documented service concern is premature camshaft belt wear, particularly in high-load operations or extended service intervals. This issue was addressed in Fiat Service Information Bulletin 05-20, which reinforced replacement intervals and specified updated belt material. Later production units (post-2007) incorporated a revised automatic tensioner design and improved coolant routing, reducing thermal stress on the timing cover.
All production models meet Euro 4 emissions standards (Directive 98/69/EC, VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9456).
The Fiat 552 53 268 is a 1,956 cc inline-four turbocharged diesel engine designed for light commercial vehicles (2005–2010). It combines SOHC valvetrain architecture with common rail direct injection to deliver robust torque and fuel efficiency. Designed to meet Euro 4 emissions standards, it balances durability with serviceability for fleet and private use.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,956 cc | |
| Fuel type | Diesel | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, SOHC, 8-valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 82.0 mm × 92.9 mm | |
| Power output | 77 kW (105 PS) @ 4,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 280 Nm @ 1,800 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Common rail direct injection (up to 1,600 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 4 | |
| Compression ratio | 17.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Fixed geometry turbo (IHI RHF3) | |
| Timing system | Rubber toothed belt (SOHC, front-mounted) | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-40, API CF/CH-4 | |
| Dry weight | 178 kg |
The SOHC 8-valve design offers predictable performance and ease of maintenance but requires strict adherence to 60,000 km cam belt replacement intervals to prevent valve damage. Use of SAE 10W-40 oil meeting API CF/CH-4 standards ensures adequate valve train lubrication under sustained load. Fuel system longevity depends on regular injector cleaning and use of quality diesel meeting EN 590. Post-2007 models benefit from a revised automatic belt tensioner and coolant routing; pre-2007 units should be inspected per Fiat SIB 05-20. DPF regeneration cycles must not be interrupted to prevent clogging and limp mode.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 10W-40, API CF/CH-4 specification (Fiat SIB 05-20). Compatible with ACEA B3/B4 standards.
Emissions: Euro 4 certification applies to all models (2005–2010) under Directive 98/69/EC (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9456).
Power Ratings: Measured under ECE R85. Output varies slightly based on ignition timing and air filter condition (Fiat TIS Doc. A55218).
Fiat Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A55201, A55218, SIB 05-20
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/9456)
EU Directive 98/69/EC: Amendments to Emissions Standards
The Fiat 552 53 268 was used across Fiat's Ducato/Scudo platforms with transverse mounting and shared architecture with Peugeot and Citroën variants. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—reinforced mounts in the Ducato and revised intake manifolds in the Scudo—and from 2007 the facelifted Ducato X244 SW adopted a revised ECU mapping and secondary air injection, 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 exhaust manifold (Fiat TIS A55205). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('K' for 552 53 268 series). Pre-2007 models have a black plastic intake manifold with a round airbox; post-2007 units use a revised rectangular plenum. Critical differentiation from petrol variants: Diesel 552 53 268 uses a black fuel rail and Bosch EDC16 ECU, while petrol units (350 A2.000) have a red fuel rail and Magneti Marelli injection system. Service parts require model-year verification—cam belts for pre-2007 models are not compatible with later automatic tensioner units (Fiat SIB 05-20).
The 552 53 268's primary reliability risk is cam belt failure on neglected engines, with elevated incidence in high-mileage fleet vehicles. Internal Fiat service data from 2006 indicated a significant share of pre-2007 engines suffering belt-related damage beyond 75,000 km, while UK DVSA records show timing-related failures as a leading cause of MOT rejection for commercial models. Extended service intervals and aftermarket non-compliant belts increase risk, making adherence to replacement schedules critical.
Analysis derived from Fiat technical bulletins (2005-2010) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2006-2015). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FIAT 552-53-268.
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EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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