One of the most popular diesel engines in used cars is the Italian 1.9 MultiJet engine. What are the reviews on it? What are the most common issues? What is its fuel consumption, and how often should the timing belt be replaced?
The 1.9 MultiJet diesel engine debuted in 1997, alongside the 2.4 R5 unit, as one of the first engines with a Common Rail fuel injection system. Over the years, this engine has been frequently improved and was successfully sold until 2010, when it was gradually replaced by the 1.6 and 2.0 MultiJet engines. Interestingly, all these engines are interconnected and belong to the so-called B family.
1.9 MultiJet Diesel Engine – Technical Specifications
As mentioned earlier, the 1.9 MultiJet was the first diesel engine with Common Rail technology. Over the years, Fiat developed different versions of this engine, varying in compression, valve numbers, and additional equipment. The newer and more powerful the engine version, with stricter emission standards, the more complex it is. However, it is important to note that compared to more modern designs, the 1.9 MultiJet diesel engines are relatively simple, making them easy and inexpensive to maintain.
Versions of the 1.9 MultiJet Engine:
- The 1.9 8V MultiJet came in versions with 90 hp and 225 Nm, 101 hp and 260 Nm, 105 hp and 200 Nm, as well as various 120 hp versions, which had from 200 Nm to 280 Nm of torque. Additionally, there was a version with 131 hp and 280 Nm.
- The 1.9 MultiJet with 16 valves had the following power outputs: 140 hp and 305 Nm, 150 hp and up to 320 Nm, and 170 hp and 330 Nm. These versions had intake flaps, which often proved problematic, especially in engines with a plastic manifold.
- The 1.9 MultiJet BiTurbo was the top-of-the-line offering, with versions delivering from 130 hp and 320 Nm to as much as 190 hp and 400 Nm. The BiTurbo variants were the only ones meeting the Euro 5 emission standard, while the weaker versions met Euro 3 or Euro 4 norms.
1.9 MultiJet Diesel Engine – Performance and Fuel Consumption
Even the weaker versions of the 1.9 MultiJet diesel engine generate high torque, providing solid performance and good driving elasticity. The 120 and 131 hp versions, with eight valves, represent a good compromise between performance and maintenance costs.
In smaller cars, the average fuel consumption in city and highway driving does not exceed 7 l/100 km, while on secondary roads, consumption can be less than 5 l/100 km. In larger vehicles, such as the Opel Vectra or Fiat Croma, fuel consumption in mixed driving remains below 7 l/100 km.
1.9 MultiJet Diesel Engine – Usage
The 1.9 MultiJet diesel engine is one of the most widespread engines in the modern automotive industry. The Fiat Group not only used it in its models but also supplied it to other brands.
Models featuring the 1.9 MultiJet:
- Fiat: Punto, Grande Punto, Sedici, Stilo, Bravo, Croma, Idea, Doblo, Multipla
- Lancia: Musa, Delta
- Opel: Astra, Vectra, Signum, Zafira (branded as CDTI)
- Saab: 9-3 (TiD or TTiD)
- Alfa Romeo: 147, 156, 159, GT (JTD or JTDm)
- Cadillac: BLS
- Suzuki: SX4 (as DDiS)
- DR: DR5
1.9 MultiJet Diesel Engine – Electronic Tuning
Due to its great popularity and initially conservative settings, as well as the growing tuning equipment market, the 1.9 MultiJet engine can significantly gain power through electronic tuning. The simplest solution is electronic tuning, which offers the greatest power increase in the weaker versions of this engine.
Further modifications, such as upgrading the turbocharger or intercooler, are also possible, though this involves additional costs. Before starting any changes, it is recommended to consult with a tuning expert who can realistically assess the condition of the engine. In some cases, the engine may require repairs before handling increased load from modifications.
1.9 MultiJet Diesel Engine – Timing Belt
Regardless of the version, all 1.9 MultiJet diesel engines use a timing belt for engine operation. Recommendations for belt replacement depend on the car manufacturer, model, and specific engine version. Replacement intervals range from 80,000 to 140,000 kilometers. It is recommended to perform timely replacements using quality replacement or original parts to avoid the risk of more serious failures.
1.9 MultiJet Diesel Engine – Common Problems
The biggest issue with cars powered by the 1.9 MultiJet engine is general wear and tear from long-term use. Many of these cars are at least ten years old and have real mileage of over 300,000 to 500,000 kilometers. This problem affects not only the engine but also other components, such as the average M32 gearboxes used in some models with this engine.
When it comes to the engine itself, drivers most often report the following failures:
- Issues with the EGR valve (exhaust gas recirculation system) and DPF filter (diesel particulate filter).
- Oil leaks.
- Wear of the clutch and dual-mass flywheel.
The Bosch electromagnetic injectors are generally durable and, in the event of failure, can be relatively easily and affordably repaired. Problems with the DPF filter can be avoided by purchasing a version of the 1.9 MultiJet engine without a DPF, which meets the Euro 3 emission standard. In some models, parallel versions with or without DPF were available, with differences being optional.
1.9 MultiJet Diesel Engine – Oil
The variety of versions and long production period has led to different oil recommendations. The most commonly recommended oils are 5W-30 and 5W-40. For engines with a DPF, the oil must have Fiat’s specification 9.55535-S1 and meet the ACEA C2 standard. The lubrication system requires less than 5 liters of oil, so one bottle is sufficient for an oil change.
Before each oil change, it is recommended to check the user manual to ensure the oil chosen is appropriate for the specific car model. Oil change intervals, especially for cars frequently driven in the city, should not exceed 15,000 kilometers.