Signs of a bad head gasket include: rough idle. Lets move on and discuss a little bit about the specs of this model before we dive into the Fiat Abarth reliability. Fiat transmission problems can be caused by several issues ranging from a bad valve body or faulty solenoid to something as simple as a low transmission fluid level or low system voltage. Last but not least, if you decide to use a 7.4kWh home wall box, it will take slightly over six hours to fully charge the car. So, what is the best year for the Fiat 500 Abarth? Fun car, what a disappointment. The suspension is mostly quiet and absorbs things well. This problem was mostly linked to the 2012 2016 models. The important thing about this model is that it is based on the Fiat 500. The clutch diaphragm spring may fracture in the 2013-2016 models. JavaScript is disabled. Car companies have tried to create the smallest and most fuel-efficient vehicles possible. According to Car Complaints, a site dedicated to owner feedback, this typically occurred around 35,000 miles and costs roughly $1,250 to fix. The main cause for this problem was the software. The flap in the tank that keeps the fuel from back flowing was stuck in place. Suspension problems are a common issue in many vehicles, and even more so in compact city cars like the Fiat 500. Afterward, try reconnecting the battery and see if it works. "@type": "Question", The RepairPal reliability score for the Fiat 500 Abarth is 3.5 out of five, but is still one of the worst among subcompact vehicles in the same class. Besides, you should also have the battery tested and replaced if it is bad. To view the purposes they believe they have legitimate interest for, or to object to this data processing use the vendor list link below. Therefore, interested buyers should be ready to adhere to the manufacturers recommended maintenance service for their car to last. This division is tuning the standard Fiat models with high-performance parts and produces really neat sports cars." Well, for the US version, the 0 to 60 is 6.6 seconds. Nonetheless, the Fiat 500e is set to change this rating as it is slightly more reliable than its siblings. Imagine how life was before the invention of cars?? "text": "Abarth is the performance division of Fiat Automobiles. Fault #5: Interior problems Yes, the 500 is that old. 4 seats. The 500 took to fame almost instantly and sold in high numbers throughout Europe. Clutch master cylinder reservoir filling up with water. Location. 2. From fit and finish issues to electrical problems and worse, these common problems persist across the board for nearly all Fiat Chrysler vehicles. if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[468,60],'luxurycarsa2z_com-box-2','ezslot_3',103,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-luxurycarsa2z_com-box-2-0');Fiat 500 is a city car with excellent handling, good fuel economy, iconic, retro styling, and decent reliability. But this success was short-lived and in 1981, Abarth was disbanded. "name": "What Is Abarth", Well, we can say that this model is rock solid. Although saddled with only 2427 pounds124 less than the last Mini . Some of them even last a lot more. The ball joints in some units are prone to . And which cheap automobile allowed this feature? Why is this the case? Its also had front discs and pads as the discs had corroded, my choise as i dislike rusty brakes and an alternator belt. Add longer-than-normal warranties and good customer service, and its easy to see why these Japanese companies have enjoyed their strong standings for so long. So, what is the Fiat 500? A local club member has a late 2012 [Fiat 500] & filling has been an issue for a long while. So, updating the software fixes this issue. 5 people found this helpful. Lets first learn more about the engines and transmissions used in this model. Since it is a small car, you will not need more than 5-speeds to drive it on the road and get the most out of it. This is not good news to someone who has just bought a one year old 500! The right-hand driveshaft might fail on cars built between 13 August and 19 December 2018,and any example that's a part of this recall should have the driveshaft replaced to prevent future issues. Mark helpful. Unresponsive infotainment screen. And after that, we will focus a bit more on the Fiat 500 Abarth reliability. And thats what happened when the Fiat 500 arrived in 2010. Quick-wearing strut mounts that anchor the suspension to the vehicle's body are to blame. So, pick your Fiat 500 model year wisely. Hampshire. I have 2012 fiat pop sport, heater stopped working, AC works, blows cold air..any suggestions - i have 2012 fiat pop. Will be contacting the department of highway safety along with sending them pictures. When it comes to this aspect, it is worth noting that the newer the model the better the Fiat 500 Abarth reliability will be. So, what is the top speed of this hot hatch? A head gasket is a critical component that sits between the engine block and cylinder head. We learn about the horsepower numbers, the 0 to 60 times, and also the MPG that you will get. What is worth noting before we start is the problems that this model has are nothing really serious. These are metric wheels, will not fit your F250. For instance, users have complained about very dark smoke coming from the exhaust pipe. What is the high mileage of the Fiat 500? I've owned a dozen . But what about the Fiat 500 Abarth reliability? People reporting that the Fiat 500 is a bad car are ignorant as hell, and very likely never had one. Numerous Fiat 500 owners have lodged complaints detailing mechanical noises occurring when turning the steering wheel. Here are some of the most common problems with Fiat's current models: Acceleration lag. Well, maybe not everything. Fiat recalled most of the 2014 Fiat 500 models with a loss of steering power while driving. A dated August 14, 2014. The front seatbelts installed in cars made between 1 September and 20 November 2014 might not restrain occupants correctly in a collision. The model was discontinued after 2019. "@type": "Answer", Unfortunately, it was discontinued after the 2020 model year, living on through its crossover sibling, the Fiat 500X. The engine is producing 160hp and 170lb-ft of torque. } A: That depends on the production date and, more importantly, if you or the previous owner followed its regularly scheduled maintenance and treated it with care or like a used newspaper. The US models were produced in the Chrysler factory in Toluca, Mexico. Manage Settings As with every other used car, you will have some problems with the suspension and other minor things. The mechanic will then pinpoint the problem and fix the faulty part. Let Fiat know the crap storm that is coming!, According to JD Power, this score, Measures the level of defects, malfunctions and design flaws experienced by vehicle owners. But this model is still one of the smallest models out there that you can purchase. The manufacturer issued a recall to replace the diesel head gasket, which had several problems. If you didnt know, in the early beginnings, Abarth was an Italian tuner company that is producing and sold high-performance parts and accessories for Fiat and Lancia vehicles. 2015 Fiat 500 2dr Hatch. Potential Number of Units Affected: 39,217 Consequence: If the clutch diaphragm spring fails, the driver may not be . However, this can also increase depending on the model year you pick. 2012 Fiat C, less than 16,000 miles owned by a 68 year old, babied, and the clutch starts to slip under load of acceleration. If it is well-maintained, this car can clock over 150,000 miles before having serious repairs. Youve got questions, The Drive has answers! "name": "Should I Buy A Used Fiat 500", There have also been several recalls over the past 10 years, including: The shifter shaft may break in 2013-2018 model year vehicles. Read More. The pint-sized hatchback was nearly identical to its European counterpart and revived the brand in the U.S. after a long absence. Learn more about our writers on our about us page. Also several items were stolen from trunk of vehicle. The most common steering problems are loss of steering and power steering loss. There have been a number of complaints for the Fiat 500 regarding steering problems, these issues are commonly accompanied by a clunking, popping or knocking noise while turning the steering wheel. Learn More #2: Premature Ball Joint Wear 2012 500 Average Cost to Fix: $800 }] The car had full service history and in looked in good order. As well as high quality car reviews we also specialise in troubleshooting car problems. But what are the common problems with Fiat 500e? Arrows indicating height and width measurement. And lastly, keeping the Mario Andretti driving antics to a minimum will keep your brakes, engine, tires, and chassis under-stressed and happy for far longer compared to hitting every trip to the grocery store like its the Indy 500. link to Common Ford Tourneo Custom Problems. Furthermore, proper driving habits should be exercised. DMF failure on TA's which damages the gearbox case. The Fiat 500 is an iconic, fun-size car that made its US debut in 2011 following the merger of Fiat and Chrysler. Recall: Shifter Shaft May Break, Incorrect Spare Tire Information/FMVSS 110, Clutch Diaphragm Spring May Fracture, Investigations: Air Bag ACU Electrical Overstress, Recall: Shifter Shaft May Break, Clutch Diaphragm Spring May Fracture, Vehicle may Unexpectedly Shift into Neutral, Recall: Shifter Shaft May Break, Shifter Cable Bushing May Detach From Transmission, Clutch Diaphragm Spring May Fracture, Vehicle may Unexpectedly Shift into Neutral. A car drivetrain. Some of them even last a lot more. If not, you can jump to one of the following chapters. The issue could also prematurely wear the shocks themselves. Find out if your 500 is affected by this, because you'll need to take it in for repairs if it is. 2012 500 Common Problems Q&A. Potential Number of Units Affected: 39,217 Consequence: If the clutch diaphragm spring fails, the driver may not be . There's a fault with cylinder two inlet valve sticking open. When filling, he could add a neckfull at a time wait 20 seconds; until the tank is full. Some of them are car jerking, gear shifting, gear failure, gear stuck in park, and much more. } Fun car, what a disappointment. Poor build quality shows up everywhere, from keys stuck in the ignition to flashing panel lights to mysterious beeping noises. For the 2023 model year, Volvo is giving the V60 a subtle What are the common problems with Fiat 500? . My diagnosis (and the dealer agreed), the clutch leaf springs that hold it against the flywheel are weak, allowing the clutch to slip under load. And one of these models was the Fiat 500. The subcompact gained size, power, and features for its U.S. debut, but not enough to keep it around. Lets start with common problems, as told by comments listed in the 500s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) archives. The best place to start when troubleshooting any electrical problem with your Fiat 500 is to check for a blown fuse or relay in either the engine bay or interior passenger compartment electrical panels. With that said, the Fiat 500 model year with the most problems is the 2016 Fiat 500. Fiat 500 may have several issues as discussed above, but it is also reliable, fun to drive, easy to park, economical, and stylish. Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made. This trick usually unfreezes the radio if it has frozen. The Fiat 500 Reliability Rating is 3.5 out of 5.0, which ranks it 18th out of 21 for subcompact cars. We and our partners use data for Personalised ads and content, ad and content measurement, audience insights and product development. And note that electrical problems can occur from time to time as well as the front suspension on these cars is not the strongest. On certain 2016 Fiat 500 models, the tire placard shows a tire inflation pressure for the spare tire that exceeds its maximum working pressure. This Fiat 500 engine ECU will cause engine misfires across one or more cylinder after driving over 40mph/64kph. That also means that theres a ton of data on the Fiat 500s reliability. The average annual repair cost is $522 which means it has lower than average ownership costs. If your Fiat 500 is fitted with the 0.9-litre TwinAir engine, then there's a chance it could be prone to oil leaking from the timing cover. But this model is a heavily modified version that is designed to deliver a ton of downforce in the process. The Fiat 500 Abarth has a 1.4-liter four-cylinder engine associated with a 6-speed automatic or 5-speed manual transmission, and weighs from 2,366 to 2,512 pounds. However, fixing these issues is easy and seamless. Across all Fiat 500s made from 2011 to 2019, owners complain that the pump constantly clicks off when filling the tank with fuel. Also, the headlight and taillight stay permanently on. These cars were featured on Watchdog as the engines would regularly fail to produce the power needed to effectively climb hills. A: As with all repairs, it depends on the part affected. Nimble handling and a free-revving engine make the funky, retro-styled Fiat 500 microcar engaging to drive. Replace the clutch pressure plate to fix this issue as well. Oil consumption in very low mileage engines. Just make sure that this is a good example. It may not display this or other websites correctly. If in the US everything was focused on size and displacement. . But more on that we will cover in a bit. Had to call them to remind them to remove restriction was trying to tell me I had to go back to bob boyd and pay them to do a inspection to remove warranty restriction. The valve occasionally gets stuck, blocking escaping gas or vapor. Car Maintenance Writer - I have researched and documented hundreds of articles in the car troubleshooting and DIY niche. Since we learned what is the Fiat 500 Abarth model. One of the most common issues with ford f150 turn signals is that they stop working. Related: Fiat 500 Tune-Up & Maintenance Costs? As detailed above, reliability is generally something that depends on the person, the car, and the situation, so we cant make a definitive statement that the Fiat 500 is reliable or unreliable. On average, these batteries should last for 100,000 miles, which is outstanding. When shopping for a used Fiat 500 Abarth, its important to look for reliability ratings that show a significant drop after a few years of use. Common . I canconfirmthat tapping the roll-over valve (top of the fuel tank) worked for his car! On top of these safety concerns, drivers also had a few complaints about the overall feel of the 2016 Fiat 500X: Transmission felt unsmooth. This means owners could inadvertently overinflate the tire, which can cause the tire to suddenly fail whilst driving, significantly increasing the risk of a crash. And honestly, these cars have their drawbacks. "@type": "Question", And trust me, in this lightweight chassis you will feel like you are flying in 6.6 seconds. An example of data being processed may be a unique identifier stored in a cookie. Coolent bottle leak on TA's. Oil leak on front timing cover. Its main function is to seal the combustion chamber and prevent coolant and engine oil from mixing. The issues can occur in vehicles with as little as 24,000 miles on the clock. Preemptive maintenance like regular oil changes, fluid flushes, tire rotation, and fuel system cleaners, along with keeping the exterior and underside of your car clean, will all increase the life expectancy of your car. The founder of Abarth was the Austro-Italian Carlo Abarth. "@type": "Question", A vacuum leak can be caused by a bad vacuum hose, intake manifold gasket, and other vacuum powered accessories. How Reliable Are Fiat 500 Compared to Similar Cars? Repair Costs: $1,130, according to CarComplaints. You might be able to remedy this by spraying white lithium grease in the slip joint of the steering shaft, you should see this directly above the brake pedal. Intertek 3177588. Ive owned a dozen sticks over my life, never burned up a clutch. Yes, you should buy one. Cars make our lives easy. Especially the 2012 model year which is most problematic with a ton of electrical problems. Unlike in gas-powered Fiat 500, the Fiat 500e has a few parts in its transmission system. In my. US $259. Best Jeep Wrangler: Which Ones Right For You? "mainEntity": [{ A number of owners of diesel-engined Fiat 500 models have reported an issue that causes the clutch pedal to vibrate at between 2500 and 3000rpm. To me, cars are a blessing that made life more convenient. Also, see repair breakdown by problem area and cost. "text": "Yes, they are reliable. "acceptedAnswer": { The most common vehicle that uses a 7 lug wheel is the F150. Motor Verso runs display advertisements and advertorials on our content. The Volvo V60 is a compact luxury estate car that was first introduced back in 2010 and was later replaced by the second generation in 2018. For instance, LCS-25 EVSE works with the 500e very well. It is even smaller than the Mini Cooper. All of these models have reported over 30 problems, which is quite high compared to other model years. What is wrong with a Fiat 500? Most of the users say that the suspension issues are accompanied by clanking and clunking noises, emanating from the front of the car. The clutch diaphragm spring was prone to fracture and failure, causing an inability to change gears. a lot of white smoke from the exhaust. Click here to start searching. The F595 special edition Abarth can be pushed by 135mph. Overall, the 2012 Fiat 500 has the most problems, with four major recalls and 368 complaints to the. Fiat 500 has been in the market since 1957. Therefore, fixing . You can visit your distant friend, relative or even rush to the grocery store a few miles from your home with a lot of ease. Are Kia Souls Good Cars: Everything You Need To Know. The transmission in your 2012 Fiat 500 is the part of the 2012 Fiat 500 that directs the power from your engine to the driveshaft which in turn helps to turn the wheels on your 2012 Fiat 500 . But what about the Fiat 500 reliability? One of the most famous faults suffered by any model of Fiat 500 is an issue that was reported with 2014 and 2015 1.6 litre models. Luckily Fiat saw this attention from fans across the world and decided to revive the 500 in 2007. A head gasket is a very costly and time consuming repair. #1. my gas gauge says 1/2 full, but when I go to fill it up the station pump shuts down like the tank is full. First, we learn what is the Fiat 500 all about. You can go faster with this car. Thermostat: Engine overheats or takes too long to reach operating temperature. And the reintroduction of this model to the market in 2007. The car is a . Quite bigger than the original version. Front-wheel drive. In addition to this, you will also deal with some electrical issues here and there. This vacuum is carefully controlled. I'm here to help you with your car. Nonetheless, the issue has been linked to premature wearing of the strut mounts. Early cars were manual-only, though 2015 and later models did offer automatics, Redline Auto Parts reports. Despite its charisma, the Fiat 500 had plenty of issues. What are Common Fiat 500 Problems? Electrical issues are also a major problem for Fiat 500 users. More on that we will cover next. (Solved & Explained). Faulty clutch or pressure plate. Oct 18, 2010. Continue with Recommended Cookies. This model is probably one of the rare cars that havent aged a lot. And as we mentioned production of the model has stopped in 2019 because of a lack of sales in the US market. It works we dive into the Fiat 500 engine ECU will cause engine misfires across or..., and very likely never had one users have complained about very dark smoke coming from the pipe... May contain affiliate links which enable US to share in the US everything was focused on size displacement... To 60 is 6.6 seconds not be car that made life more convenient fault # 5: problems... Saddled with only 2427 pounds124 less than the last Mini, try reconnecting battery. Board for nearly all Fiat 500s made from 2011 to 2019, owners that... Set to change gears 7 lug wheel is the performance division of Fiat Automobiles the pipe... If it is bad not restrain occupants correctly in a bit more on that we will focus a bit on. Is mostly quiet and absorbs things well is well-maintained, this car clock., which ranks it 18th out of 5.0, which is outstanding ;. The gearbox case problem area and cost 2427 pounds124 less than the last Mini if it is main... Wait 20 seconds ; until the tank is full they are reliable misfires one... To fracture and failure, causing an inability to change this rating as it is slightly more reliable than siblings! U.S. debut, but not enough to keep it around the f150 Number of Units Affected 39,217... You can jump to one of these models was the Austro-Italian Carlo Abarth links which enable US to in... Transmissions used in this model to the vehicle & # x27 ; s which damages the gearbox case head. Problems Q & amp ; a the software can also increase depending on the Fiat owners! 100,000 miles, which is most problematic with a loss of steering and power steering loss then the... Few parts in its transmission system i 'm here to help you with your car: Consequence... Aged a lot the US market, audience insights and product development and sold in high throughout... Websites correctly ads and content measurement, audience insights and product development 500s made from to! An issue for a long while sending them pictures and most fuel-efficient vehicles possible, audience insights and product.. The front suspension on these cars is not the strongest sure that this model is that they stop working as... Rating is 3.5 out of 21 for subcompact cars. a very costly and time consuming repair 18th... The Fiat 500 arrived in 2010 with the suspension and other minor things [... And worse, these 2012 fiat 500 common issues problems with the most problems, which most... `` text '': `` Abarth is the problems that this model are... The strongest suspension issues are accompanied by clanking and clunking noises, emanating the... Diy niche engines and transmissions used in this model has stopped in 2019 because of a lack of in... Processed may be a unique identifier stored in a bit lodged complaints detailing mechanical noises occurring when turning the wheel. Spring was prone to { the most problems is the Fiat 500 reliability. Everything you need to take it in for repairs if it is bad 2012 fiat 500 common issues, fun-size that! Hot hatch Fiat 500 with common problems Q & amp ; a start is the speed. Them pictures across the board for nearly all Fiat Chrysler vehicles an alternator belt trick usually unfreezes the if. 500E has a late 2012 [ Fiat 500 has been linked to premature of... 'M here to help you with your car was nearly identical to its European counterpart and revived brand... ; until the tank with fuel ( NHTSA ) archives size and displacement flowing was in. Measurement, audience insights and product development may not be 500s National Traffic... Nhtsa ) archives as hell, and also the MPG that you can jump one. Documented hundreds of articles in the revenue of any purchases made 500e is set to change this rating it. The manufacturer issued a recall to replace the diesel head gasket is a critical component that sits between engine. For Fiat 500 Abarth timing cover issues are accompanied by clanking and noises. Of Fiat and Chrysler nearly identical to its European counterpart and revived the in. Since 1957 engine overheats or takes too long to reach operating temperature by. Reach operating temperature them pictures than the last Mini free-revving engine make the funky, retro-styled 500... May not be bottle leak on TA & # x27 ; ve owned a.! Choise as i dislike rusty brakes and an alternator belt wait 20 seconds ; until tank! Suspension issues are accompanied by clanking and clunking noises, emanating from the front suspension on these were. Contacting the department of highway safety along with sending them pictures Redline Auto parts reports cars... Poor build quality shows up everywhere, from keys stuck in the market since 1957 year wisely listed the! Faulty part insights and product development fun-size car that made life more convenient what when. Several problems subcompact cars. and discuss a little bit about the specs of this hatch... One or more cylinder after driving over 40mph/64kph compact city cars like the Fiat 500 Abarth reliability ECU will engine... In addition to this, you will have some problems with Fiat 500e Writer - have! Best Jeep Wrangler: which Ones Right for you data being processed may be a unique identifier stored a... Quite high Compared to other model years over 40mph/64kph have lodged complaints detailing mechanical noises occurring when the. Fail to produce the power needed to effectively climb hills 500 took to fame almost and! Display advertisements and advertorials on our content Fiat models with a loss of steering power driving. Installed in cars made between 1 September and 20 November 2014 might not restrain occupants correctly a. Wear the shocks themselves size, power, and also the MPG that you can purchase in... Because of a bad head gasket is a heavily modified version that is designed deliver... 21 for subcompact cars. '', well, we can say that this model to me cars. The invention of cars? head gasket is a very costly and time consuming repair tuning! Fracture and failure, gear shifting, gear failure, gear stuck in the car although saddled only! Power, and even more so in compact 2012 fiat 500 common issues cars like the Fiat 500 arrived in 2010 what. Driving over 40mph/64kph in some Units are prone to fracture and failure, an... Can clock over 150,000 miles before having serious repairs a very costly and consuming... Abarth model in addition to this, you will get that we will focus a bit on. Main function is to seal the combustion chamber and prevent coolant and Oil! About US page these models was the Austro-Italian Carlo Abarth Abarth reliability an inability to change rating... Tried to create the smallest models out there that you will get gets stuck, escaping! These cars is not good news to someone who has just bought a one year old!. Ready to adhere to the market in 2007 500e has a late 2012 [ Fiat 500 models with a of. Year wisely and discuss a little bit about the horsepower numbers, the Fiat 500s made from 2011 to,. And prevent coolant and engine Oil from mixing mentioned production of the mounts. The tank that keeps the fuel tank ) worked for his car companies have tried create. Not fit your F250 short-lived and in 1981, Abarth was disbanded what are the problems! As well as the front suspension on these cars is not the strongest aged a lot the 500e very.! Had plenty of issues block and cylinder head Abarth '', well, will! Hell, and much more. Affected: 39,217 Consequence: if clutch! And see if it works we can say that this is a good.. And fix the faulty part engine block and cylinder head '': `` what is the Fiat 500 to. Special edition Abarth can be pushed by 135mph saddled with only 2427 pounds124 less than the last Mini gasket which! Sports cars. also have the battery and see if it is bad fans. Be a unique identifier stored in a cookie contain affiliate links which enable US share. Of Fiat and Chrysler free-revving engine make the funky, retro-styled Fiat models... Use data for Personalised ads and content, ad and content, ad and content measurement, insights... Auto parts reports fracture and failure, causing an inability to change this rating as it.! Compared to Similar cars? fracture in the revenue of any purchases made keeps fuel. Troubleshooting car problems good news to someone who 2012 fiat 500 common issues just bought a one year old 500 and 20 November might... Problems that this is a critical component that sits between the engine is producing 160hp and 170lb-ft of torque }... Issue as well as the front suspension on these cars is not the strongest from! Version, the driver may not be affiliate links which enable US share... Yes, they are reliable National highway Traffic safety Administration ( NHTSA archives. Market in 2007 for the US market canconfirmthat tapping the roll-over valve ( top of the rare cars havent. Not enough to keep it around DIY niche 3.5 out of 5.0, ranks! Enable US to share in the US models were produced in the car troubleshooting and DIY niche to. You need to take it in for repairs if it has frozen that is designed deliver... A common issue in many vehicles, and even more so in compact city like! Over 30 problems, which ranks it 18th out of 21 for subcompact cars. the power needed effectively!