Timing chain Fiat: problems by model and engine

Documented faults, from most to least important

Severity × frequency. Below each one, the Fiat models it appears in.

- Critical severityFrequency: Very frequent1.5 BlueHDiWear and breakage of the 7 mm chain between the camshaftsIn 1.5 BlueHDi engines built between October 2017 and January 2023, the 7 mm chain linking the camshafts can stretch and break, causing serious engine damage. Stellantis has recalled them and covers the fault for 10 years or 240,000 km.Repair (garage): €730–€820
In Doblò III and Scudo III
- Critical severityFrequency: Common1.3 MultijetTiming chain stretch and tensioner failureYes: the timing chain's hydraulic tensioner can lose pressure and let the chain slacken; if it skips teeth or breaks, it can destroy the engine. It is a documented problem on Fiat, Opel, Suzuki and Ford cars with this engine, mainly linked to long oil change intervals.Repair (garage): €350–€550Appears at around 70,000 km
In 500, 500L, 500X, Doblò II, Panda III and Punto III and 2 more models
- High severityFrequency: Rare1.2 PureTechTiming misalignment from the camshaft sprocket bolts (chain-driven generation)On the third-generation 1.2 (chain-driven) built up to 17 February 2024, the camshaft sprocket bolts could be incorrectly fitted and throw the timing out: engine warning light, loss of power and, in the worst case, contact between pistons and valves.
In 600 and Grande Panda

By Fiat model

Open yours to see only the faults that affect it, by engine and by year.

Engines and gearboxes involved

Frequently asked questions

What faults with the timing chain do Fiat cars have?

In 12 models from Fiat there are 3 documented faults with the timing chain. The most important: wear and breakage of the 7 mm chain between the camshafts, timing chain stretch and tensioner failure and timing misalignment from the camshaft sprocket bolts (chain-driven generation). Each fault has its own page with the affected years and versions, the symptoms and the repair cost.

Which Fiat models have the most problems with the timing chain?

Fiat Punto III (1 fault), Fiat 500 (1 fault), Fiat Qubo (1 fault) and Fiat Doblò II (1 fault).

Which Fiat engines have faults with the timing chain?

1.2 PureTech (1 fault), 1.3 Multijet (1 fault) and 1.5 BlueHDi (1 fault).