The Fiat 1.3 Firefly engine has been in production since 2016 to date. It is a naturally aspirated 2-valve per-cylinder engine and was first introduced in the Fiat Uno model. Despite its excellent performance, the Fiat 1.3 Firefly engine also comes with several problems. But what are the Fiat 1.3 Firefly engine problems?
Common problems with the Fiat 1.3 Firefly engine are valve timing chain problems, EGR valve failure, failing fuel injectors, and camshaft problems. In addition, some users have also reported having failing mass airflow sensors, turbocharger problems, and failing fuel regulators.
Read more about Fiat Tipo problems or Fiat 500x problems.
What are the common problems with Fiat 1.3 Firefly engine?
Valve timing chain issues
This is one of the most common problems that users of this engine should be prepared to experience. In most cases, the valve timing chain starts to develop issues when it hits over 140,000 miles. So, if you want to avoid most valve timing problems, you should replace this part every 1240,000 miles.
The valve timing chain starts to stretch or wears out when it hits more than 120k miles. When you decide to change the chain, ensure to replace the guides and hydraulic tensioner altogether.
EGR valve failure
The EGR valve is usually the main part of the EGR system and it’s usually enclosed. Besides, the EGR valve in the Fiat 1.3 Firefly engine is fitted with electromagnetic servo drive, feedback, and thus any malfunction in its operation is instantly recorded by the control unit. So, when the valve is stuck, it will notify you.
A stuck EGR valve can make the engine stop and it should be fixed immediately. Instead of cleaning the EGR valve, it is best to replace it if it’s failing.
Camshaft problems
The camshaft helps to open and close the inlet and exhaust valves of the engine at the right time, with the exact stroke in an accurately defined sequence. However, after covering several miles, the camshaft on the 1.3 Firefly engine is bent literally a few hundredths at the rear. This causes the engine to stall.
To fix this problem, you will have to replace the bad or failing camshaft.
Turbocharger problems
Like most Fiat engines, the Fiat 1.3 Firefly engine turbocharger problems are normally caused by oil contamination, oil starvation, and foreign object damage. Some of the signs of a failing turbocharger are slow acceleration, loss of power, and difficulty maintaining high speeds.
If you notice the above signs, then it’s high time you replace or clean the turbocharger on your car.
Failing fuel injectors
Fuel injectors atomize and inject fuel into the internal combustion engine. However, after some time, they become clogged or worn out. The main cause of failing fuel injectors is carbon buildup. As a result, carbon buildup can cause a clogged injector not to close all the way. This can cause the car to misfire or idle.
To fix this issue, you will be forced to clean the fuel injectors or replace them.
Failing fuel regulator
The fuel regulator helps to regulate the fuel pressure against the air pressure. This allows the fuel injector to maintain an ideal ratio between fuel and boost. However, after five years of use, the fuel regulator may start to fail and start causing several problems.
Some of the signs of a failing fuel regulator are fuel leaks, engine misfire, engine malfunction, noisy fuel pump, and decrease in power. To fix this problem, you will be required to replace the failing fuel injector.
Failing mass airflow sensor
A mass airflow sensor measures the air mass flowing into the engine intake. So, if this part fails, it can lead to poor engine start, stalling, engine hiccups, hard starts, jerking, and idling. That’s why it is very important to have your car inspected often to avoid such problems. If the mass airflow sensor is bad, you will have to replace it.
FAQ
Is the Fiat 1.3 Firefly engine reliable?
Yes, it is one of the most reliable Fiat engines in the market. Besides, Fiat firefly engines are normally very reliable. Nevertheless, they still register several problems. Most of these issues can be avoided with proper care and maintenance. Overall, this is a nice, reliable, and dependable engine.
Is it expensive to maintain the Fiat 1.3 Firefly engine?
No, maintaining the Fiat 1.3 Firefly engine is considerably affordable. The only issue is the cost of spare parts and the difficulty of getting them. What’s more, Fiat doesn’t offer the best customer service. Nevertheless, this engine is still slightly costlier to maintain than mainstream cars.
How long does the Fiat 1.3 Firefly engine last?
The Fiat Firefly 1.3 engine may be a well-performing and reliable engine, but it can also last longer if it is maintained well. On average, this car should last for more than 200,000 miles. However, some users have recorded this car clocking over 250k miles.
But for the car to last long, the user should practice good driving habits and ensure to adhere to the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance service.
What is the high mileage for the Fiat 1.3 Firefly engine?
Fiat has stated in the past that this engine can last for at least 155k miles, instead of the normal 93,000 miles. During this period, no major mechanical repair or maintenance is needed. But after the car clocks more than 155k miles, costlier repairs may start to come up. So, if you’re looking to buy a used Fiat 1.3 Firefly model, stay away from models with more than 155k miles.
Which Fiat models are fitted with the Fiat 1.3 Firefly engine?
The Fiat 1.3 Firefly engine is a very reliable and durable engine. It is also fuel efficient and it performs exceptionally well. On the contrary, Fiat hasn’t featured this engine in many of its cars. This is because this engine is featured in the Fiat Uno and Fiat 500X
Cars with Fiat 1.3 Firefly engine
The Fiat 1.3 FireFly engine is a versatile and popular powerplant used in various Fiat Group vehicles. Here are some cars that have been equipped with the Fiat 1.3 FireFly engine:
- Fiat Tipo: The Fiat Tipo is a compact car that offers the 1.3 FireFly engine as one of its available options.
- Fiat 500X: The Fiat 500X, a subcompact crossover SUV, has been offered with the 1.3 FireFly engine in certain trim levels.
- Jeep Renegade: The Jeep Renegade, a compact SUV, has been powered by the Fiat 1.3 FireFly engine in select versions.
- Fiat 500L: The Fiat 500L, a small MPV (Multi-Purpose Vehicle), has featured the 1.3 FireFly engine as one of its engine choices.
Summary
Now that you know some of the common problems with the Fiat 1.3 Firefly engine, you should take good care of your car. The Fiat 1.3 Firefly engine is a pretty reliable engine with outstanding performance and efficiency. If properly maintained, this car can last for more than 200k miles.
