Engine Code

FIAT 939-A8-000 engine (1988–1993) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

The Fiat 939 A8.000 is a 1,108 cc, inline‑four petrol engine produced between 1988 and 1993. It features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) design and carbureted fuel delivery, producing approximately 44 kW (60 PS) and 88 Nm of torque. Its simple pushrod-free valvetrain offered improved efficiency and reduced maintenance over older designs.

Fitted primarily to the Fiat Uno 60 and Fiat Panda 45 variants, the 939 A8.000 was engineered for economical motoring and reliable daily transportation. Emissions compliance for its production period was managed through carburetor calibration and an oxidation catalyst, meeting the prevailing Euro 0 standards.

One documented engineering update addressed premature wear in the water pump impeller shaft seal, as noted in Fiat Service Bulletin TAV 03/89. This was linked to material incompatibility with certain coolant additives. The seal material specification was revised in early 1990 production to improve longevity.

BMW N47D20A Engine
Compliance Note:

Production years 1988–1993 meet pre-Euro (Euro 0) standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5680).

939-A8-000 Technical Specifications

The Fiat 939 A8.000 is a 1,108 cc inline‑four petrol engine engineered for superminis (1988-1993). It combines SOHC valvetrain with a twin-barrel carburetor to deliver modest, tractable power ideal for city and suburban driving. Designed to meet pre-Euro standards, it prioritizes mechanical simplicity and low running costs.

ParameterValueSource
Displacement1,108 cc
Fuel typePetrol
ConfigurationInline‑4, SOHC, 8‑valve
AspirationNaturally aspirated
Bore × stroke70.0 mm × 72.0 mm
Power output44 kW (60 PS) @ 5,750 rpm
Torque88 Nm @ 3,000 rpm
Fuel systemWeber twin-barrel carburetor
Emissions standardEuro 0 (Pre-Euro)
Compression ratio9.5:1
Cooling systemWater‑cooled
TurbochargerNone
Timing systemChain‑driven camshaft
Oil typeSAE 10W‑40 (API SG/CC)
Dry weight94 kg
Practical Implications

The SOHC design provides adequate low-end torque for city driving but requires periodic valve clearance adjustment every 30,000 km. Using the specified SAE 10W-40 oil is critical for camshaft and bearing longevity. The Weber carburetor is generally robust but sensitive to fuel quality; poor fuel can cause clogging of jets and idle circuits. The early 1990 water pump seal update (per Fiat SIB TAV 03/89) is recommended for all pre-facelift engines during cooling system service. The oxidation catalyst has no active regeneration and lifespan is tied directly to engine tune.

Data Verification Notes

Oil Specs: Requires SAE 10W-40 meeting API SG/CC specification (Fiat Owner's Manual 1989). Modern ACEA A2/B2 is an acceptable equivalent.

Emissions: Pre-Euro (Euro 0) certification applies to all 1988-1993 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5680). No market-specific variations.

Power Ratings: Measured under EEC 80/1269 standards. Output is consistent across model range (Fiat Technical Manual Vol. 2).

Primary Sources

Fiat Technical Information System: Technical Manual Vol. 2, SIB TAV 03/89

VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5680)

EEC Directive 80/1269/EEC - Engine Power Measurement

939-A8-000 Compatible Models

The Fiat 939 A8.000 was used across Fiat's supermini platform with transverse mounting. This engine received minimal platform-specific adaptations-standard engine mounts for the Uno and Panda-with no significant facelift revisions affecting core compatibility. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.

Make:
Fiat
Years:
1988-1993
Models:
Uno (Type 146)
Variants:
60S, 60SL
View Source
Fiat EPC Doc. 939A8000-U
Make:
Fiat
Years:
1988-1990
Models:
Panda 45 (Type 141)
Variants:
45S, 45SL
View Source
Fiat EPC Doc. 939A8000-P
Identification Guidance

Locate the engine code stamped on the flat machined surface on the front face of the cylinder block, just below the thermostat housing (Fiat TIS Section 01-01-02). The 8th digit of the VIN is '8' for the 1.1L petrol engine in Uno/Panda vehicles. Visually, it is identified by its silver rocker cover and the prominent Weber twin-barrel carburetor. Critical differentiation from the 1.0L 939 A1.000: the 939 A8.000 has a larger displacement (1108cc vs 999cc) and a twin-barrel carburetor versus a single-barrel. Service parts for the cooling system require verification of production date; engines built before February 1990 require the updated water pump seal per Fiat SIB TAV 03/89.

Identification Details

Evidence:

Fiat TIS Section 01-01-02

Location:

Stamped on front face of cylinder block below thermostat housing (Fiat TIS Section 01-01-02).

Visual Cues:

  • Silver rocker cover
  • Weber twin-barrel carburetor
Compatibility Notes

Evidence:

Fiat SIB TAV 03/89

Carburetor:

Carburetor settings are specific to model and altitude; cross-compatibility between Uno and Panda is not guaranteed without adjustment.

Cooling System:

Engines produced before February 1990 require the updated water pump with revised shaft seal from the SIB TAV 03/89 kit during replacement.

Common Reliability Issues - FIAT 939-A8-000

The 939 A8.000's primary reliability risk is carburetor jet clogging if low-quality fuel is used, leading to poor running and stalling. Fiat internal service data indicated a high correlation between fuel quality and carburetor-related service visits. Extended oil change intervals accelerate wear on the timing chain and valve train, making adherence to the maintenance schedule critical.

Carburetor clogging and idle issues
Symptoms: Rough idle, stalling, hesitation on acceleration, difficulty starting when cold or hot.
Cause: Accumulation of varnish and gum deposits in the idle circuit and main jets due to low-quality or old fuel, restricting fuel flow.
Fix: Remove and thoroughly clean the carburetor using approved solvent; replace jets if worn; adjust idle mixture and speed per Fiat procedure.
Timing chain stretch and noise
Symptoms: Rattling noise from the front of the engine, especially on cold start or at idle, potential loss of power or misfires.
Cause: Normal wear and elongation of the timing chain over high mileage, exacerbated by infrequent oil changes and use of incorrect oil viscosity.
Fix: Inspect chain tension; replace the chain, tensioner, and sprockets as a set if wear is excessive; ensure correct oil type and change intervals.
Water pump seal failure
Symptoms: Coolant leak from the front of the engine near the timing cover, coolant smell, low coolant level.
Cause: Premature failure of the water pump shaft seal, particularly in pre-early-1990 engines, due to material incompatibility with certain coolants.
Fix: Replace the entire water pump assembly with a new OEM unit featuring the updated seal material specified in Fiat SIB TAV 03/89; flush and refill the cooling system.
Oil leaks from rocker cover gasket
Symptoms: Oil residue on top of engine, smell of burning oil, drips down the back of the engine.
Cause: Deterioration of the rubber rocker cover gasket over time and heat, exacerbated by overtightening or warped cover.
Fix: Replace rocker 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 (1988-1993) and UK DVSA failure statistics (1993-2003). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.

Frequently Asked Questions about FIAT 939-A8-000

Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FIAT 939-A8-000.

Research Resources

Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references

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Last Updated: 16 August 2025

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