2018 FIAT 124 Spider: Recalls, Problems & MPG
Here are the deets on the 2018 FIAT 124 Spider: 2 recalls, 16 owner complaints and up to 30 mpg combined.
Recalls
2 vehicle recalls from the manufacturer. Repairs are free. Check your VIN to see if one is still open on your car.
Transmission & drivetrain Vehicle recall #19V068000 · 2019 · 8,950 vehicles
What's wrong: Due to incorrect programming of the transmission control module (tcm), certain conditions May cause the vehicle to unexpectedly downshift and abruptly decelerate.
Why it matters: If a downshift occurs, the vehicle will suddenly decrease speed, increasing the risk of a crash.
The fix: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will update the tcm software, free of charge. The recall began March 28, 2019.
Airbags Vehicle recall #24V694000 · 2024 · 15,835 vehicles
What's wrong: A software error in the air bag control module May cause the front air bags to deploy with excessive force during a crash. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 208, "occupant crash protection."
Why it matters: An air bag that deploys with excessive force can increase the risk of injury.
The fix: Dealers will update the air bag control module software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 26, 2025.
Most-reported problems
Owner complaints filed with NHTSA, by component. One complaint can list several components. 0 mention a fire, 0 injuries and 0 deaths were reported.
What owners describe
- Airbags (8): no single recurring theme in the descriptions.
- Seat belts (3): no single recurring theme in the descriptions.
- Electrical (2): the most common themes are warning light on (2).
- Engine (2): no single recurring theme in the descriptions.
The 2018 FIAT 124 Spider has 16 owner complaints, ranking #2 of 4 124 Spider model years for complaints (about average; the typical year has 16). Complaints peaked in 2025 (7 filed that year). The typical problem showed up when the car was about 6 years old, at a median of 6,000 miles. Neighboring years: 2017 (32 complaints, 2 recalls), 2019 (9 complaints, 3 recalls).
Engines & fuel economy (EPA)
| Engine | Transmission | Drive | City | Hwy | Comb. | Fuel |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1.4 L 4-cyl turbo | Manual 6-spd | Rear-Wheel Drive | 26 | 35 | 30 | Premium |
| 1.4 L 4-cyl turbo | Automatic 6-spd | Rear-Wheel Drive | 25 | 36 | 29 | Premium |
Want the full repair deets? Get the factory manual.
Recall and complaint data tells you what goes wrong. A service manual tells you how to fix it: torque specs, wiring diagrams, fluid capacities and step-by-step procedures for the 2018 FIAT 124 Spider.
Closest thing to the factory manual for most years. Pay once, keep it.
Most $25–$78, one-timePro-shop repair procedures, wiring diagrams and TSBs for your exact car.
From $19.99/mo · $39.99/yrOEM procedures, specs and recall/TSB info, the same source many shops use.
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FAQ
Does the 2018 FIAT 124 Spider have any recalls?
Yes. NHTSA lists 2 vehicle recalls for the 2018 FIAT 124 Spider. Recall repairs are free at any dealer, no matter how old the car is. Check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
What are the most common 2018 FIAT 124 Spider problems?
Owners have filed 16 complaints with NHTSA. The most-reported areas are airbags (8), seat belts (3), electrical (2).
What gas mileage does the 2018 FIAT 124 Spider get?
EPA ratings run up to 30 mpg combined (1.4 L, Manual 6-spd), across 2 engine and transmission combos.
Where can I get a 2018 FIAT 124 Spider repair manual?
eManualOnline sells downloadable manuals, Mitchell 1 DIY and ALLDATAdiy sell online access to factory repair data, and Haynes sells printed guides and online access. Pick a download if you want to keep it, or a subscription for wiring diagrams and TSBs.