The Fiat Multijet is a family of diesel engines ranging from 1,248 cc to 1,956 cc, featuring inline‑four configurations with common rail direct injection. Produced between 2003 and 2019, it pioneered multi-injection technology, allowing up to five fuel injections per cycle for smoother combustion, reduced noise, and improved efficiency compared to earlier diesel designs.
Fitted across Fiat, Alfa Romeo, and Lancia models—including the Punto, Bravo, 500L, and Ducato—the Multijet was engineered for drivers seeking strong low-end torque, fuel economy, and long-distance cruising capability. Emissions compliance evolved from Euro 4 to Euro 6 standards through the addition of diesel particulate filters (DPF) and selective catalytic reduction (SCR) systems.
One well-documented reliability concern is EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation) valve and cooler clogging, particularly in urban-driven vehicles. This issue, highlighted in Fiat Technical Service Bulletin TSB‑08‑015, is linked to soot and carbon buildup restricting flow. Later generations (Multijet II) introduced revised EGR designs and higher injection pressures to mitigate this and improve emissions.
Production years 2003–2009 meet Euro 4 standards; 2010–2014 models meet Euro 5; 2015–2019 Multijet II engines meet Euro 6 (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/4567).
The Fiat Multijet is a family of 1.3L to 2.0L inline‑four turbo‑diesel engines engineered for superminis to light commercials (2003-2019). It combines high-pressure common-rail injection with variable geometry turbocharging to deliver strong low-end torque and efficient long-distance cruising. Designed to meet evolving Euro 4 through Euro 6 standards, it balances performance with increasingly stringent emissions control.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,248–1,956 cc | |
| Fuel type | Diesel | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 69.6–82.0 mm × 82.0–90.4 mm | |
| Power output | 51–125 kW (70–170 PS) | |
| Torque | 180–350 Nm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch common-rail (up to 1,600 bar for Multijet II) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 4 (2003–2009); Euro 5 (2010–2014); Euro 6 (2015–2019) | |
| Compression ratio | 16.0:1–16.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Variable geometry turbo (VGT) | |
| Timing system | Belt‑driven camshafts | |
| Oil type | Fiat 9.55535‑S2 (SAE 5W‑40) | |
| Dry weight | 125–145 kg |
The VGT turbo provides strong low-RPM torque ideal for city and highway driving but requires strict adherence to 60,000 km oil and filter change intervals to prevent turbo and DPF issues. Fiat 9.55535-S2 (5W-40) oil is mandatory to protect the high-pressure fuel system and aftertreatment components. The EGR system, as noted in TSB 08-015, is prone to clogging in stop-start driving; periodic cleaning or highway runs are recommended. Multijet II engines (2015+) feature higher injection pressures and SCR systems, requiring AdBlue® for Euro 6 compliance.
Oil Specs: Requires Fiat 9.55535-S2 (5W-40) specification (Fiat SIB 08-01-15). Meets ACEA C3 requirements for low-SAPS formulations.
Emissions: Euro certification varies by displacement and model year (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/4567). Multijet II (2015+) requires AdBlue® for Euro 6 compliance.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output varies by displacement and tune (Fiat Technical Specification Sheet).
Fiat Technical Information System: Workshop Manual Punto (199), SIB 08-01-15
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/4567)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Fiat Multijet was used across Fiat's 199, 350, and 244 platforms with transverse mounting and licensed to Suzuki and Opel. This engine family received platform-specific adaptations—reinforced mounts in the Ducato and compact sump designs in the 500L—and from 2015 the Multijet II revision introduced SCR systems, creating fuel and fluid compatibility limits. Partnerships allowed Suzuki and Opel to use variants in their European lineups. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front face of the cylinder block, near the timing belt cover (Fiat Workshop Manual Punto). The 8th digit of the VIN typically indicates engine family ('J' for Multijet). Visually, it is identifiable by its cast-alloy rocker cover with "Multijet" or "MultiJet II" branding and a variable geometry turbocharger. Critical differentiation from earlier JTD engines: Multijet features higher-pressure common-rail injection and multiple injections per cycle. Service parts, especially for the fuel system and emissions controls, vary significantly between Multijet I and II generations.
The Multijet's primary reliability risk is EGR system clogging, with elevated incidence in vehicles subjected to frequent short trips. Fiat TSB 08-015 documented a pattern of carbon and soot buildup leading to drivability issues and DPF faults, while owner reports frequently cite injector failures after 120,000 km. Adherence to the 60,000 km service interval and use of correct oil is critical for longevity.
Analysis derived from Fiat technical bulletins (2003-2019) and owner-reported failure data (2008-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FIAT MULTIJET.
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