Fiat Recalls 15,835 124 Spiders Over Airbag Deployment Issues

Fiat has announced a recall for 15,835 of its 124 Spider models due to an issue with the airbags deploying too forcefully. The airbag control module software links to the problem, potentially causing a dual-stage airbag deployment during certain crashes instead of the intended single-stage deployment.

This malfunction causes the vehicle to fall short of the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards, particularly those focused on neck injury prevention.

The root of the issue lies in the accelerometer of the airbag control module, which has incorrect voltage specifications. This affects models produced between March 31, 2016, and August 31, 2020, covering model years 2017 to 2020.

Mazda, responsible for assembling the 124 Spider, alerted Stellantis about a potential airbag malfunction back in July. After an investigation, the two companies agreed that a voluntary safety recall was necessary, and Mazda initiated the process earlier this month. Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) will notify affected owners starting in November. FCA will provide a free software update to the airbag control module to resolve the issue.

If you own a Fiat 124 Spider and want to check if your vehicle is impacted, you can enter your VIN on the NHTSA recall website.