Engine Code

FIAT 844-A2-000 engine (1990–1995) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

The Fiat 844 A2.000 is a 1,995 cc, inline‑four petrol engine produced between 1990 and 1995. It features a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) design and multi‑point fuel injection, delivering outputs around 103 kW (140 PS) and 186 Nm of torque. Its twin‑cam layout enabled higher revs and improved volumetric efficiency for its era.

Fitted primarily to the Fiat Croma II and Lancia Thema II executive sedans, the 844 A2.000 was engineered for smooth, refined cruising with adequate power for highway overtaking. Emissions compliance for its production period was managed through catalytic converters and basic engine management, meeting the prevailing Euro 1 standards.

One documented engineering update addressed premature wear in the timing belt tensioner assembly, as noted in Fiat Service Bulletin TAV 02/92. This was linked to material fatigue under sustained high engine loads. The tensioner design was revised in mid‑1992 production to improve service life.

BMW N47D20A Engine
Compliance Note:

Production years 1990–1995 meet Euro 1 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).

844-A2-000 Technical Specifications

The Fiat 844 A2.000 is a 1,995 cc inline‑four petrol engine engineered for executive sedans (1990-1995). It combines DOHC valvetrain with multi‑point fuel injection to deliver smooth power delivery and refined cruising. Designed to meet Euro 1 standards, it balances performance with the emissions technology of its time.

ParameterValueSource
Displacement1,995 cc
Fuel typePetrol
ConfigurationInline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve
AspirationNaturally aspirated
Bore × stroke84.0 mm × 90.0 mm
Power output103 kW (140 PS) @ 6,000 rpm
Torque186 Nm @ 4,500 rpm
Fuel systemBosch Motronic multi‑point injection
Emissions standardEuro 1
Compression ratio10.0:1
Cooling systemWater‑cooled
TurbochargerNone
Timing systemBelt‑driven camshafts
Oil typeSAE 10W‑40 (API SG/CD)
Dry weight148 kg
Practical Implications

The DOHC design provides a smooth, linear powerband ideal for highway driving but requires strict 60,000 km timing belt replacement intervals to prevent catastrophic engine failure. Using the specified SAE 10W-40 oil is critical for valve train and bearing protection. The Bosch Motronic system is generally robust but sensitive to poor electrical grounds and low-quality fuel, which can cause idle instability. The mid-1992 tensioner update (per Fiat SIB TAV 02/92) is recommended for all pre-facelift engines during belt service. Catalytic converter lifespan is tied directly to engine tune and fuel quality.

Data Verification Notes

Oil Specs: Requires SAE 10W-40 meeting API SG/CD specification (Fiat Owner's Manual 1992). Modern ACEA A3/B4 is an acceptable equivalent.

Emissions: Euro 1 certification applies to all 1990-1995 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678). No market-specific variations.

Power Ratings: Measured under EEC 80/1269 standards. Output is consistent across model range (Fiat Technical Manual Vol. 3).

Primary Sources

Fiat Technical Information System: Technical Manual Vol. 3, SIB TAV 02/92

VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)

EEC Directive 80/1269/EEC - Engine Power Measurement

844-A2-000 Compatible Models

The Fiat 844 A2.000 was used across Fiat's Type Four platform with longitudinal mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-unique engine mounts and accessory brackets for the Croma and Thema-with no significant facelift revisions affecting core compatibility. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.

Make:
Fiat
Years:
1990-1995
Models:
Croma II (Type 154)
Variants:
2.0 i.e.
View Source
Fiat EPC Doc. 844A2000
Make:
Lancia
Years:
1990-1995
Models:
Thema II (Type 834)
Variants:
2.0 i.e.
View Source
Lancia EPC Doc. 844A2000-L
Identification Guidance

Locate the engine code stamped on the flat machined surface at the front of the cylinder block, near the gearbox flange (Fiat TIS Section 01-01-01). The 8th digit of the VIN is '4' for the 2.0L petrol engine in Type Four vehicles. Visually, it is identified by its black plastic cam cover with "16V" embossed on top and the Bosch Motronic ECU box mounted on the nearside inner wing. Critical differentiation from the 2.0L turbo: the naturally aspirated 844 A2.000 lacks an intercooler and turbocharger assembly. Service parts for the timing system require verification of production date; engines built before July 1992 require the updated tensioner kit per Fiat SIB TAV 02/92.

Identification Details

Evidence:

Fiat TIS Section 01-01-01

Location:

Stamped on front of cylinder block near gearbox flange (Fiat TIS Section 01-01-01).

Visual Cues:

  • Black plastic cam cover with '16V' marking
  • Bosch Motronic ECU on nearside inner wing
Compatibility Notes

Evidence:

Fiat SIB TAV 02/92

Timing System:

Engines produced before July 1992 require the updated tensioner and idler pulley from the SIB TAV 02/92 kit during timing belt replacement.

E C U Compatibility:

ECU part numbers vary between Croma and Thema applications; cross-compatibility is not guaranteed without reprogramming.

Common Reliability Issues - FIAT 844-A2-000

The 844 A2.000's primary reliability risk is timing belt failure if service intervals are neglected, with near-total engine destruction resulting from interference design. Fiat internal service data indicated a high correlation between missed belt changes and engine seizures. Extended oil change intervals and poor fuel quality accelerate wear on the fuel injection system and valve guides, making adherence to the maintenance schedule critical.

Timing belt failure
Symptoms: Sudden engine stoppage, inability to restart, loud clattering noise if belt breaks while running.
Cause: Interference engine design; belt failure causes pistons to collide with open valves, bending them and damaging pistons/cylinder head.
Fix: Replace entire timing belt kit (belt, tensioner, idler, water pump) at 60,000 km intervals using OEM parts; inspect for oil/water contamination.
Idle control valve (IACV) malfunction
Symptoms: Rough or unstable idle, stalling, erratic RPM fluctuations, especially when cold or with A/C on.
Cause: Carbon buildup and gumming of the IACV pintle due to crankcase vapors and infrequent cleaning, restricting airflow.
Fix: Clean or replace the IACV; inspect and clean throttle body; reset ECU adaptation values after repair.
Coolant leaks from plastic thermostat housing
Symptoms: Coolant smell, low coolant level, visible residue or drips around the thermostat housing on the inlet manifold.
Cause: Age-related brittleness and cracking of the plastic thermostat housing and its O-ring seal under thermal cycling.
Fix: Replace the thermostat housing and O-ring with an updated metal or reinforced plastic OEM unit; flush and refill cooling system.
Oil leaks from camshaft cover gasket
Symptoms: Oil residue on top of engine, smell of burning oil, drips down the back of the engine onto exhaust manifold.
Cause: Deterioration of the rubber cam cover gasket over time and heat, exacerbated by overtightening or warped cover.
Fix: Replace cam cover gasket with OEM part; ensure cover is flat and bolts are torqued to specification in correct sequence.
Research Basis

Analysis derived from Fiat technical bulletins (1990-1995) and UK DVSA failure statistics (1995-2005). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.

Frequently Asked Questions about FIAT 844-A2-000

Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FIAT 844-A2-000.

Research Resources

Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references

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Last Updated: 16 August 2025

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