The Fiat 124 Spider and its Abarth branded sibling, twins of the ND generation Miata, are facing a recall in the United States due to a faulty airbag control module. Incorrect accelerometer voltage specifications within the module can cause airbags to deploy with excessive force in a crash, potentially increasing the risk of neck injury to the driver and passenger.
This issue affects 15,835 vehicles produced between 2017 and 2020. Stellantis, the automaker, has been notified of the problem and is working to address it. The software responsible for the faulty specifications was supplied by Robert Bosch LLC, but it’s unclear who programmed it.
The recall is a significant development for the Fiat 124 Spider, which has been praised for its driving dynamics and retro inspired styling. However, the airbag issue raises concerns about the safety of the vehicle, particularly in the event of a collision.
Stellantis and Bosch are likely to investigate the cause of the faulty software and implement a solution to prevent future occurrences. The recall also highlights the importance of regular vehicle maintenance and inspections, as even seemingly minor issues can have serious consequences.
The recall comes as a precautionary measure to ensure the safety of 124 Spider drivers and passengers. While no accidents or injuries have been reported related to the airbag control module issue, Fiat is taking proactive steps to address the potential problem.
Owners of affected vehicles are encouraged to schedule an appointment with their local Fiat dealer to have the airbag control module reprogrammed as soon as possible.
The service will be performed at no cost to the owner. For more information about the recall, owners can contact Fiat customer service at 1-800-FIAT-USA or visit the Fiat website.
