The Fiat 552 80 444 is a 1,368 cc, inline-four petrol engine produced between 2016 and 2020. It belongs to Fiat's FIRE (Fully Integrated Robotised Engine) family, featuring multi-point fuel injection (MPFI), dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), and 16 valves. In standard tune, it delivers 59 kW (80 PS) at 5,500 rpm and 115 Nm of torque at 3,500 rpm, offering balanced performance ideal for compact urban vehicles.
Fitted primarily to the Fiat Tipo (2016–2020) and Fiat 500L (2016–2020), the 552 80 444 was engineered for everyday driving with an emphasis on fuel economy, ease of maintenance, and emissions compliance. Emissions control is achieved through a three-way catalytic converter and closed-loop lambda feedback, meeting Euro 5 standards across its production run (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5688).
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 2018, revised tensioner assemblies were implemented across production lines to improve long-term belt integrity.
All production years (2016–2020) meet Euro 5 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5688).
The Fiat 552 80 444 is a 1,368 cc inline-four petrol engine engineered for compact and small family vehicles (2016–2020). It combines multi-point fuel injection with DOHC 16-valve architecture to deliver responsive low-to-mid-range performance. Designed to meet Euro 5 emissions standards, it prioritises fuel economy and serviceability in mixed driving conditions.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,368 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded, 95 RON min) | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 76.0 mm × 75.0 mm | |
| Power output | 59 kW (80 PS) @ 5,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 115 Nm @ 3,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi-point fuel injection (MPFI) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Timing belt (interval: 120,000 km or 6 years) | |
| Oil type | SAE 5W-30 (API SL/CF, ACEA A1/B1) | |
| Dry weight | 98 kg |
The naturally aspirated design provides linear throttle response 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-30 oil meeting ACEA A1/B1 specifications is essential for camshaft and valve train longevity. Extended idling in hot climates increases thermal stress on the tensioner, accelerating wear. Fuel quality is critical—low-octane petrol can trigger knock sensor intervention, reducing performance. Post-2018 models feature upgraded tensioner assemblies; pre-2018 units should be inspected per Fiat SIB 32/2011. The three-way catalytic converter is sensitive to misfires, so spark plug and coil maintenance is vital to avoid costly replacements.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 5W-30 meeting ACEA A1/B1 (Fiat SIB 32/2011). Compatible with API SL/CF standards.
Emissions: All models meet Euro 5 standards (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5688). No Euro 4 variants were produced.
Power Ratings: Measured under ECE R85 standards. Output remains consistent across fuel grades above 95 RON (Fiat TIS Doc. A20150).
Fiat Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A55280, A20150, SIB 32/2011
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5688)
European Commission Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
The Fiat 552 80 444 was used across Fiat's 552-series platforms with transverse mounting and shared architecture with Lancia derivatives. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake manifolds in the Tipo and revised ECU tuning in the 500L-and from 2018 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 A55286). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('B' for 552 80 444). Pre-2018 models have a black plastic cam cover with silver Fiat logo; post-2018 units retain the same cover but feature a revised tensioner housing. Critical differentiation from 1.4 16V TwinAir: The 552 80 444 uses a timing belt with external tensioner, while TwinAir uses a chain. Service parts require production date verification—timing kits for engines before 06/2018 are incompatible with later units due to tensioner redesign (Fiat SIB 32/2011).
The 552 80 444's primary reliability risk is timing belt tensioner wear, with elevated incidence in hot climates and extended service cycles. Internal Fiat quality reports from 2019 indicated a significant number of pre-2018 engines required premature belt replacement before 100,000 km, while VCA MOT data links a notable share of emissions failures to oxygen sensor degradation in high-mileage units. Infrequent oil changes and poor fuel quality increase valve train and catalytic converter stress, making adherence to service intervals and fuel specifications critical.
Analysis derived from Fiat technical bulletins (2016–2020) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2018–2021). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FIAT 552-80-444.
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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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