1.3 MultiJet (SDE diesel)
2007–2018 · diesel · 1248cc · 95hp
Engine codes: 199A2000, 169A1000, SDE
Reliability, common problems and owner reviews for the Fiat 500 1.3 MultiJet (SDE diesel). Check this before you buy used.
The 1.3 MultiJet (the GM-Fiat 'SDE' small diesel, also used by Opel/Suzuki) is a frugal, willing little engine — but it's a rare and slightly odd choice in a city car, and a modern common-rail unit with the usual cautions: DPF clogging on short trips (exactly the use these cars get), EGR sooting and injector wear. Only makes sense for a high-mileage commuter; for typical 500 city use the petrols are far more sensible. Buy on oil and DPF history.
Same engine, other cars
This is the same physical engine (199A2000) sold under different names across brands. Reliability is broadly shared — cross-check these:
Known Issues
DPF blocks on the short urban trips a 500 typically does.
Fix / Workaround: Motorway regens; clean/replace.
Repair cost: €250–€1000
Typically appears after: 110,000 km
EGR soot and injector wear.
Fix / Workaround: Clean EGR; injector test.
Repair cost: €150–€800
Typically appears after: 140,000 km
Mileage Thresholds
After 140,000 km: DPF + injector window.
Pre-Purchase Checklist
- ☐Oil + DPF history (city use is hard on it)
- ☐High-mileage commuters only
- ☐Shared GM-Fiat SDE diesel
Frequently asked questions
Is the Fiat 500 1.3 MultiJet (SDE diesel) reliable?
Maint. Sensitive — The 1.3 MultiJet (the GM-Fiat 'SDE' small diesel, also used by Opel/Suzuki) is a frugal, willing little engine — but it's a rare and slightly odd choice in a city car, and a modern common-rail unit with the usual cautions: DPF clogging on short trips (exactly the use these cars get), EGR sooting and injector wear. Only makes sense for a high-mileage commuter; for typical 500 city use the petrols are far more sensible. Buy on oil and DPF history.
What are the common problems and reviews for the Fiat 500 1.3 MultiJet (SDE diesel)?
The most commonly reported problems: DPF clogging (short trips), EGR / injectors.
Is a used Fiat 500 1.3 MultiJet (SDE diesel) worth buying?
Fine if serviced correctly — but it punishes neglect hard. History and the right consumables matter.