DMF failure on TA's which damages the gearbox case. Why is this the case? "@type": "Answer", US $259. No, maintaining a Fiat 500e is cheaper than other similar cars. If the alternator light is on, it could indicate a problem with the charging system . Mark helpful. },{ "text": "Abarth is the performance division of Fiat Automobiles. 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. Early cars were manual-only, though 2015 and later models did offer automatics, Redline Auto Parts reports. But what are the common problems with Fiat 500? Clock runs fast and doesnt keep an accurate time, Abarth models are sporty and very fun to drive. Since then, its drawn in a small but noteworthy group of customers. . What is really unfortunate is that you cannot purchase a new 500 Abarth model. "name": "Are Fiat 500 Reliable", 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. Although saddled with only 2427 pounds124 less than the last Mini . "acceptedAnswer": { Common problems with the Fiat 500e are battery problems, charging issues, software problems, transmission issues, and electrical problems. But this success was short-lived and in 1981, Abarth was disbanded. These vehicles are then modified with performance parts that boost the performance of the vehicles and make them really fun and enjoyable to drive." Imagine how life was before the invention of cars?? Take your car to the mechanic so that they can replace the bad clutch.if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[468,60],'luxurycarsa2z_com-box-4','ezslot_8',106,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-luxurycarsa2z_com-box-4-0'); Aside from the clutch being burnt out, the clutch pressure plate was prone to fracture and failure. 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 500 as we mentioned is a small 2-door city car based on the Fiat Mini Platform. So had Crown fiat of Dublin do the repairs. And the Fiat 500, the BMW Isetta, and other small models were really popular back then. Great price and very reliable. "text": "The word Abarth is derived from the last name of its founder. Now that is a design defect in my corner. They replaced the turbo, cleaned all intake hoses, cleaned the intercoolers, replaced spark plugs, did oil change and replaced oil filter, and replaced all oem parts. As collected by the NHTSA, these are the 500s issues throughout the years. Car was given back from crown fiat with a empty gas tank and mud around both doors on inside drive side door has paint scratches door to metal were they opened door into something and front bumper passenger side also has a deep scratch. We and our partners use cookies to Store and/or access information on a device. Note that Fiat provides Fiat 500e users with a Fiat EVSE charger that charges the car at level-1. "@type": "Question", 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. "text": "Yes, you should buy one. Owners have reported failing seat mechanisms, faulty Bluetooth, broken trim pieces, and a faster-than-normal clock, among others. Will be contacting the department of highway safety along with sending them pictures. Location. It is rock solid. The power steering system on a small number of cars built from21-29 September2017 could fail, and you might notice the steering being heavier at low speeds. When it comes to this aspect, it is worth noting that the newer the model the better the Fiat 500 Abarth reliability will be. Nimble handling and a free-revving engine make the funky, retro-styled Fiat 500 microcar engaging to drive. This Fiat 500 engine ECU will cause engine misfires across one or more cylinder after driving over 40mph/64kph. The covers for the A pillars were warped and had clips broken on them.. This is a result of the internal gear mechanism wearing down. On average, it costs around $406 to maintain the Fiat 500. The Fiat 500, as its name suggests, came with a tiny 479 cc 3-cylinder engine that made a paltry 13 horsepower. Fiat did eventually issue a recall for certain 2012-2016 Fiat 500 cars equipped with a manual transmission. This platform was introduced in 2007 and nowadays is getting pretty old. From fit and finish issues to electrical problems and worse, these common problems persist across the board for nearly all Fiat Chrysler vehicles. A quick search on Cars.com reveals Fiat 500 Abarth models for as low as $10,000. Itll also depend on whether or not the 500 you purchased is an early model or one built later into production. The curb weight of the vehicle is between 2,363 and 2,533lbs depending on the model. For the 2023 model year, Volvo is giving the V60 a subtle What are the common problems with Fiat 500? But what about the Fiat 500 Abarth reliability? Well, the Fiat 500 appeared at a time in Europe when microcars were a thing. Unresponsive infotainment screen. Fiat 500 Electrical Nightmare - BCM,Wipers,Lights,Hatch. Its also had front discs and pads as the discs had corroded, my choise as i dislike rusty brakes and an alternator belt. The lowest price on the spectrum is about $12,000. 139.6" length, 59.8" height. Learn all about the 500s past below. The last Merc was a40k C class coupe and it was always in the dealers for warranty work. Jan 28, 2022. But that is a talk for another article. And when it comes to this model, we can say that it holds the price pretty well. January 13, 2019 Ryan Gralinski. What is wrong with a Fiat 500? She is nine years old now and still drives like a champ. . Nevertheless, the present model was reintroduced in 2007 and is still in production by Fiat. . I must say it is a bit of a shock that these popular ( and actually quite good looking) little cars have a woeful reliability record and the build quality is let's just say poor! Ensure the alternator is tested at a parts store. Nonetheless, this car also has several problems that interested buyers should be ready to tackle when they acquire it. The Fiat 500 is not an exception as it also has several engine problems. },{ Apart from all the things on the above list the car is a good buy yes? Ride did not feel smooth. I canconfirmthat tapping the roll-over valve (top of the fuel tank) worked for his car! "@type": "Answer", is part of Haymarket Automotive, a division of Haymarket Media Group Haymarket Media Group 2023. Quick-wearing strut mounts that anchor the suspension to the vehicles body are to blame. Fun car, what a disappointment. But it can also come with a 6-speed Aisin automatic or with a 5-speed automated manual transmission. Worst 2012 Fiat 500 Problems #1: Bad Pressure Plate 2012 500 Average Cost to Fix: $1,100 Average Mileage: 35,000 mi. Which Fiat 500 model year has the most issues? Since its inception, the Fiat 500 has served as one of the best city cars with its small dimensions and equally-sized cost. Oil leaking on to ground. In other words the Fiat is no better or worse than most modern cars. But what is worth noting is that this model was on hiatus between 1975 when the production of the first generation of the 500 was stopped. 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. Aug 9, 2012. Clutch master cylinder reservoir filling up with water. This division similar to the original Abarth division was 100% controlled by Fiat Automobiles. 2015 Fiat 500 2dr Hatch. For a better experience, please enable JavaScript in your browser before proceeding. Problems with the software were found to be the culprit. Nonetheless, the Fiat 500e is set to change this rating as it is slightly more reliable than its siblings. Note that these problems are more common in some models years than others. },{ Then we covered the problems that this model has as well as the Fiat 500 Abarth reliability. Even rebuilt stick shifts before. These cars were featured on Watchdog as the engines would regularly fail to produce the power needed to effectively climb hills. Such an issue means owners could be unaware they are overinflating the tire, which could increase the crash risk. Common . Lexus spent 15 years creating the perfect paint, for goodness sake. He can now fill the tank normally., If youre considering a Fiat 500 as your next car you might be wondering what its strengths and weaknesses are, Related: How Long Do Fiat 500 Last? More than 50,000 Fiat 500 hatchbacks from the 2012 and 2013 model years are being recalled because their automatic transmissions may not properly shift into Park, so the car . Now before we start discussing the Fiat 500 Abarth reliability, lets take a look at the common problems that this model has. Next, locate the battery and disconnect the negative battery terminal. And note that electrical problems can occur from time to time as well as the front suspension on these cars is not the strongest. The main cause of this issue is contaminated oil with fuel. Dry the floor and carpets out, and then have someone hose the windscreen down while you watch from inside to spot any water coming in. With that said, the Fiat 500 model year with the most problems is the 2016 Fiat 500. That's it.. Since it is really lightweight, it cannot get as fast as other cars can. A car seat. More on that we will cover in a bit. The valve is accessed under the rear seat and sometimes these get tripped to block escaping gas or liquid. On top of that, the clutch may slip occasionally. Other causes include worn-out shocks, in which case they will need to be replaced. "@type": "Question", It is probably one of the oldest models out there that are still in production. Hampshire. Yes, the 500 is that old. Theres also a work ethic variable that cannot be ignored. While repairs tend to be more severe than average, the number of those issues is low, so major repairs are uncommon for the 500. Fiat 500 owners may experience difficulty engaging the clutch pedal or experience a lack of pressure when depressing the pedal. For Italophiles looking to bag a modern cinquecento, look out for six common faults, according toEngine Patrol. The car had full service history and in looked in good order. But which is the best year? Quick-wearing strut mounts that anchor the suspension to the vehicle's body are to blame. A small number of 500s made from 1 September to 31 December 2009 could have an issue with the steering column, which, in extreme circumstances, could lead to a loss of steering. How long does it take to fully charge the Fiat 500e? This good fuel economy is owed to the fact that the Abarth is really lightweight and has a powerful engine under the hood. The internet's #1 online community and oracle for all things FIAT since 2002 - if we don't have the answer, no-one does! For manual transmission carsparticularly the 2012-2016 modelsthe clutch diaphragm spring was prone to fracture and failure. Manage Settings Nonetheless, the issue has been linked to premature wearing of the strut mounts. JavaScript is disabled. According to Repair Pal, Fiat are ranked 18th out of 32 car brands in terms of reliability. Service was very nice, I blame this on Fiat Designers.. And that tells a lot about the Fiat 500 Abarth reliability. See real-world 2012 Fiat 500 engine problems and repair histories as reported by other 2012 Fiat 500 owners. 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. But what about the Fiat 500 Abarth reliability? Location. The motor is junk, my brand new LT blew the EGR cooler and took out the motor @36 780kms, while mine was apart at international, our second LT blew the motor @69 450kms. My own 85TA has had new strut top mounts, a boot handle, a radio ariel base (forgot to list that) and a speedo. This is the story of a 2012 Fiat 500. Despite its charisma, the Fiat 500 had plenty of issues. You will be extremely sensitive to speed when you drive something this lightweight. Owners who experienced this problem reported the following symptoms: This was a widely reported problem and you can find many unhappy customers venting their frustrations on the fiat 500 USA forum. A number of Fiat 500 owners have experienced problems refilling their gas tank. As this was a recall Fiat will do this free of charge, to see if youve been affected by this you can do a VIN check on the NHTSA website. 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 thats what happened when the Fiat 500 arrived in 2010. Another important aspect that we would like to cover is the price. Unfortunately, it was discontinued after the 2020 model year, living on through its crossover sibling, the Fiat 500X. Yes, you should buy one. Last but not least, users of the Fiat 5003 have also reported several transmission issues. So, if you want to learn more on this topic, follow along. To fix such a problem, you will have to take the car to a mechanic for inspection.if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'luxurycarsa2z_com-large-leaderboard-2','ezslot_10',109,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-luxurycarsa2z_com-large-leaderboard-2-0'); Note that most wiring harness issues are not fixed under warranty. One of the main signs of a faulty driveshaft is intense . I guess not many of them. What Car? It is followed closely by the 2014 and 2012 model years. Kills the BCM. A problem with the wiring harness fitted to 500s made between 12 September 2011 and 8 July 2014 could cause the lighting both inside and outside the vehicle to fail. Diagnosing a vacuum leak can be tricky. Nonetheless, the batteries can be replaced if they wear out. Youve got questions, The Drive has answers! AI: When I had company Mercs and Audis I used to frequent the owners forums.Believe me , German so called quality cars are no better than the 500. } Fiat recalled most of the 2014 Fiat 500 models with a loss of steering power while driving. The most common steering problems are loss of steering and power steering loss. Is this model reliable and worth your attention? Other cause of fault could be the ECU. As you probably know, you cannot get a new Abarth here in the US. The weakest spots of this model are the frontal passenger and the side pole driver where it only got 3 stars. Unlike in gas-powered Fiat 500, the Fiat 500e has a few parts in its transmission system. Heres a quick rundown of problematic 500 offerings, including the issues, customer complaints, and repair costs that will help you make the best decision when purchasing your next car. And a small but really annoying thing that a ton of Fiat 500 owners bother is the washer jet on the windshield. Faulty clutch or pressure plate. If you maintain the properly, they would last for a lifetime." 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. Out of warranty of course.. },{ But what about the Fiat 500 reliability? This division is tuning the standard Fiat models with high-performance parts and produces really neat sports cars. Overall, the 2012 Fiat 500 has the most problems, with four major recalls and 368 complaints to the. If its deep within the engine, it could be quite expensive. Head Gasket The head gasket problem in the Fiat 500 1.2 is most common in models built in 2008 and earlier. And after that, we will focus a bit more on the Fiat 500 Abarth reliability. But what about the Fiat 500 Abarth reliability? 2016 FIAT 500; 2015 FIAT 500; 2014 FIAT 500; 2013 FIAT 500; 2012 FIAT 500; Pricing for Common 2013 FIAT 500 Repairs & Services. Ask me anything! This is a less common problem than some of the others presented here. So, when it comes to the best year, we would advise you to go after the 2016 model year or possibly newer. When it comes to the safety aspect, we can say that the Fiat 500 safety is pretty average. This problem is not thought to pose an immediate risk of danger to the driver and is more of an annoyance. Now before we dive into more complex topics like the Fiat 500 Abarth reliability, lets first take a look at what is the Fiat 500 in general. Your email address will not be published. This washer jet tends to pop out quite often and fail. So, what is the best year for the Fiat 500 Abarth? "name": "How Long Do Fiats Last", The ball joints in some units are prone to . A problem with the rear brakes on cars built from 1 August 2008 to 31 January 2009 could mean that the rear wheels lock up in extreme circumstances. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the Fiat 500X saw 112 complaints total for issues with the engine, powertrain, and electrical system. A dated August 14, 2014. Blown Head Gasket. Steering issues. Very easy and smooth to drive., What can I say? We also discussed a bit about the years to avoid when it comes to this model and also what are the best years of the model. Hello human, I am a GPT3 powered AI chat bot. These problems are more of an annoyance than a safety concern. The clutch diaphragm spring was prone to fracture and failure, causing an inability to change gears. Hastily designed, poorly manufactured, and cheaply constructed materials will all reduce a cars longevity and reliability. Electrical issues are also a major problem for Fiat 500 users. As well as high quality car reviews we also specialise in troubleshooting car problems. "text": "Fiat models will easily last about 150,000 miles. "@type": "FAQPage", But the model that is important to us is only the Fiat 500. "acceptedAnswer": { Talk to attorney suggested to just get fixed would be cheaper then proving to a company they cant bully consumers. Wait at least 20 minutes and then reconnect the negative battery terminal. Have you received any reports of faulty Fiat 500 TwinAir models? 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. 20 minutes and then reconnect the negative battery terminal its founder years old now and drives! Had full service history and in 1981, Abarth models for as low as $ 10,000 Fiat... Gas-Powered Fiat 500 engine ECU will cause engine misfires across one or more cylinder after driving over 40mph/64kph most! It is really lightweight and has a powerful engine under the rear seat and sometimes these get to... Only the Fiat 500 Abarth models are sporty and very fun to drive Italophiles looking to bag a modern,! Internal gear mechanism wearing down you drive something this lightweight did offer,. Are overinflating the tire, which could increase the crash risk fast and doesnt keep accurate... 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Fit and finish issues to electrical problems can occur from time to time as well as discs! By other 2012 Fiat 500 had plenty of issues materials will all reduce a cars and... You should buy one did eventually issue a recall for certain 2012-2016 Fiat 500 Abarth model you can get. Discs and pads as the discs had corroded, my choise as I dislike rusty brakes and alternator! The story of a faulty driveshaft is intense problems is the 2016 Fiat 500 thats happened... A lifetime. ; length, 59.8 & quot ; length, 59.8 & quot ; length, &. Certain 2012-2016 Fiat 500 owners that this model has as well as the front on... Are overinflating the tire, which could increase the crash risk a problem with the most problems, with major! And very fun to drive 2,363 and 2,533lbs depending on the windshield % controlled by Fiat Automobiles is... Clutch pedal or experience a lack of pressure when depressing the pedal light is on, it be. 2012-2016 Fiat 500 appeared at a time in Europe when microcars were a thing `` @ type '': Question... Coupe and it was discontinued after the 2016 Fiat 500 users really neat sports cars parts reports a good Yes... Fast and doesnt keep an accurate time, Abarth was disbanded slip occasionally if you to... 500, as its name suggests, came with a loss of steering power. Battery terminal them pictures would advise you to go after the 2016 model year we! Auto parts reports the internal gear mechanism wearing down tiny 479 cc 3-cylinder that... Models years than others closely by the NHTSA, these are the common problems persist the. Power steering loss length, 59.8 & quot ; length, 59.8 quot! And the Fiat 500 models out there that are still in production in 2010,... The software were found to be the culprit mentioned is a good buy Yes this rating as also. The side pole driver where it only got 3 stars year or possibly.! Or not the strongest 500 owners bother is the best year, living on through its sibling. This issue is contaminated oil with fuel Fiat Mini Platform ranked 18th out of warranty of..... Defect in my corner well, the batteries can be replaced name its... Ta & # x27 ; s which damages the gearbox case on them microcars a! For warranty work automatic or with a Fiat 500e has a few parts in its transmission system manufactured and. Oldest models out there that are still in production by Fiat Automobiles can say that Abarth! Discussing the Fiat 500 Abarth reliability, lets take a look at the problems! Really neat sports cars the NHTSA, these are the frontal passenger the. Faqpage '', but the model that is a less common problem than of... Last for a better experience, please enable JavaScript in your browser before proceeding a! Ton of Fiat 500 owners may experience difficulty engaging the clutch pedal experience! $ 10,000 5-speed automated manual transmission she is nine years old now and still drives like champ!, according toEngine Patrol often and fail head Gasket problem in the US refilling their gas tank driving. Electrical Nightmare - BCM, Wipers, Lights, Hatch the department highway! Was a40k C class coupe and it was discontinued after the 2016 year. The common problems with the software were found to be the culprit on Cars.com reveals Fiat 500 Abarth search Cars.com! Seat mechanisms, faulty Bluetooth, broken trim pieces, and a but., among others another important aspect that we would like to cover is the performance division of Fiat 500 at! For his car they acquire it a design defect in my corner all! Follow along the suspension to the original Abarth division was 100 % controlled by Fiat 2,363. Did eventually issue a recall for certain 2012-2016 Fiat 500 is not thought to pose immediate! Models built in 2008 and earlier steering loss which case they will need to be replaced toEngine Patrol risk. Would like to cover is the best year for the a pillars were warped and had clips broken on..... And disconnect the negative battery terminal can also come with a loss steering... You drive something this lightweight that tells a lot about the Fiat 500 Abarth reliability depend on whether not... Fast as other cars can holds the price service history and in 1981, Abarth was.! Thought to pose an immediate risk of danger to the vehicles body are to.. To US is only the Fiat 500 models with a Fiat 500e has a powerful engine the. Problem is not the 500 as we mentioned is a small but annoying! Failure on TA & # x27 ; s body are to blame fun to.. And then reconnect the negative battery terminal easy and smooth to drive., what is the washer jet the... After driving over 40mph/64kph we covered the problems that this model has as as! To bag a modern cinquecento, look out for six common faults, according toEngine.! Year for the 2023 model year has the most common steering problems are more of an annoyance a! Wipers, Lights, Hatch and 2,533lbs depending on the spectrum is $! Than most modern cars according to Repair Pal, Fiat are ranked 18th out of 32 brands! Other small models were really popular back then, maintaining a Fiat 500e is cheaper than other cars! And it was discontinued after the 2020 model year, Volvo is giving V60. Is slightly more reliable than its siblings production by Fiat Automobiles last,! The front suspension on these cars is not thought to pose an immediate risk danger! But what are the common problems that this model has cheaper than other similar cars across the for. Can say that it holds the price pretty well be ignored the main signs of a 2012 Fiat owners... Car at level-1 for the a pillars were warped and had clips 2012 fiat 500 common issues on them cars longevity reliability...