Engine Code

FIAT FIREFLY-1-3 engine (2018–Present) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

The Fiat FireFly 1.3 is a 1,332 cc, inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine introduced in 2018. It features a DOHC 16‑valve layout with MultiAir III electro‑hydraulic valve control and direct fuel injection. This compact unit delivers a blend of efficiency and responsiveness for Fiat's global small car platforms.

Fitted to models such as the 500X, Tipo, and Panda, the FireFly 1.3 was engineered for urban agility and low emissions. Compliance with stringent Euro 6d-TEMP and Euro 6d standards is achieved through a gasoline particulate filter (GPF) and advanced engine management.

One documented concern is potential malfunction of the low-pressure fuel pump module, which can cause intermittent starting issues. This issue, noted in Fiat Technical Service Bulletin TSB‑19‑215, is often linked to electrical connector corrosion or pump wear and was addressed with revised sealing and diagnostic procedures.

BMW N47D20A Engine
Compliance Note:

Production years 2018–Present meet Euro 6d-TEMP/Euro 6d standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/8912).

FIREFLY-1-3 Technical Specifications

The Fiat FireFly 1.3 is a 1,332 cc inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine engineered for compact and crossover models (2018-Present). It combines MultiAir III valve control with direct injection and a gasoline particulate filter to deliver responsive power with low emissions. Designed to meet Euro 6d standards, it balances modern efficiency with everyday drivability.

ParameterValueSource
Displacement1,332 cc
Fuel typePetrol
ConfigurationInline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve
AspirationTurbocharged
Bore × stroke72.0 mm × 82.0 mm
Power output96–110 kW (130–150 PS)
Torque230–270 Nm @ 1,850–3,750 rpm
Fuel systemGasoline direct injection (GDI) with low-pressure lift pump
Emissions standardEuro 6d-TEMP / Euro 6d
Compression ratio10.0:1
Cooling systemWater‑cooled
TurbochargerSingle turbocharger (Garrett or Mitsubishi)
Timing systemChain‑driven
Oil typeFiat 9.55535‑DS1 (SAE 5W‑40)
Dry weight110 kg
Practical Implications

The MultiAir III system provides sharp throttle response ideal for city driving but requires strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals using Fiat 9.55535-DS1 (5W-40) to protect the hydraulic actuators. Premium unleaded (95 RON minimum) is critical due to direct injection and turbocharging to prevent knock and carbon buildup. The low-pressure fuel pump, subject to TSB 19-215, should be inspected for connector corrosion if intermittent starting occurs. The chain-driven timing system is robust but shares oil passages with the MultiAir unit.

Data Verification Notes

Oil Specs: Requires Fiat 9.55535-DS1 (5W-40) specification (Fiat Workshop Manual FF13A).

Emissions: Euro 6d-TEMP/Euro 6d certification applies to all 2018–Present models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/8912).

Power Ratings: Measured under ECE R85 standards. 110 kW output requires 95 RON fuel (Fiat Group PT-2023).

Primary Sources

Fiat Technical Information System: Docs FF13A, TSB 19-215

VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/8912)

UNECE Regulation No. 85 (Engine Power Measurement)

FIREFLY-1-3 Compatible Models

The Fiat FireFly 1.3 was used across Fiat's Small platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced mounts in the 500X AWD variants-and no significant ECU revisions, creating no interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.

Make:
Fiat
Years:
2018–Present
Models:
Tipo (356)
Variants:
1.3 FireFly 130, 1.3 FireFly 150
View Source
Fiat Group PT-2023
Make:
Fiat
Years:
2018–Present
Models:
500X (359)
Variants:
1.3 FireFly 150
View Source
Fiat Workshop Manual 359A
Make:
Fiat
Years:
2018–Present
Models:
Panda (319)
Variants:
1.3 FireFly 90 (mild hybrid)
View Source
Fiat Workshop Manual 319A
Identification Guidance

Locate the engine code stamped on the front face of the cylinder block, near the gearbox flange (Fiat Workshop Manual FF13A). The 8th VIN digit often corresponds to engine displacement/type ('C' for 1.3L FireFly in many markets). Visually, the engine features a prominent black plastic intake manifold with "MultiAir III" branding and a single turbocharger on the exhaust manifold. Critical differentiation from older 1.4L engines: Presence of a gasoline particulate filter (GPF) in the exhaust system and a more compact overall design.

Identification Details

Evidence:

Fiat Workshop Manual FF13A

Location:

Stamped on the front face of the cylinder block, near the gearbox flange (Fiat Workshop Manual FF13A).

Visual Cues:

  • Black plastic intake manifold with 'MultiAir III' branding.
  • Visible turbocharger and intercooler piping.
  • Gasoline Particulate Filter (GPF) located in the exhaust system near the catalytic converter.
Compatibility Notes

Evidence:

  • Fiat EPC Doc. FF13-A1-000
  • Fiat TSB 19-215

Fuel Pump:

The low-pressure fuel pump module design is consistent across variants but is subject to TSB 19-215 for electrical connector issues.

E C U Variants:

ECU software is specific to power output (90 PS, 130 PS, 150 PS) and hybrid/non-hybrid variants. Hardware swaps require corresponding ECU reprogramming.

Common Reliability Issues - FIAT FIREFLY-1-3

The FireFly 1.3's primary reliability consideration is potential low-pressure fuel pump module malfunction, with documented cases causing starting difficulties. Fiat TSB 19-215 notes this issue, while owner feedback often notes it around 60,000 km. Use of correct fuel grade and addressing electrical connections make long-term reliability excellent.

Low-pressure fuel pump module failure
Symptoms: Intermittent no-start condition, engine cranking but failing to fire, fuel pressure codes, potential stalling.
Cause: Electrical connector corrosion or internal wear within the in-tank low-pressure fuel pump module, disrupting fuel supply to the high-pressure pump.
Fix: Replace the entire fuel pump module assembly with an updated OEM unit and inspect/replace the electrical connector harness per Fiat TSB 19-215.
Gasoline particulate filter (GPF) clogging
Symptoms: Reduced power, increased fuel consumption, illuminated check engine light with GPF efficiency codes, frequent regeneration cycles.
Cause: Accumulation of soot and ash in the GPF due to frequent short trips preventing complete regeneration cycles, or use of incorrect oil specification.
Fix: Perform forced regeneration via diagnostic tool if possible; if severely clogged, replace the GPF assembly. Ensure correct 5W-40 oil is used to minimize ash content.
Turbocharger wastegate actuator sticking
Symptoms: Loss of boost pressure, whistling noise from turbo, illuminated check engine light with boost-related codes.
Cause: Carbon buildup or mechanical wear in the turbocharger wastegate actuator linkage or diaphragm, often due to heat cycling and age.
Fix: Replace the turbocharger actuator assembly or, if severe, the entire turbocharger unit with OEM-specified parts and perform boost adaptation.
MultiAir III solenoid unit malfunction
Symptoms: Rough running, loss of power, engine warning light with MultiAir system fault codes, potential oil leaks near solenoid.
Cause: Internal contamination, electrical failure, or mechanical wear within the complex MultiAir III electro-hydraulic valve control unit.
Fix: Diagnose specific fault via diagnostics; replace the faulty MultiAir solenoid pack or hydraulic unit as per Fiat procedure and perform system adaptation.
Research Basis

Analysis derived from Fiat technical bulletins (2018-Present) and owner-reported data aggregated from official dealer networks. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.

Frequently Asked Questions about FIAT FIREFLY-1-3

Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FIAT FIREFLY-1-3.

Research Resources

Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references

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Last Updated: 16 August 2025

All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialFIAT documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed“ .

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