Fiat 500 Years to AvoidThe weakest years — and the one you should buy instead
After reviewing every Fiat 500 we've analyzed (7 years), these are the 7 weakest. Each one has either an absolute low reliability score, chronic repair issues, or unusually high ownership costs relative to other 500 years.
Proceed with caution
2012 Fiat 500
The 2012 Fiat 500 is a vehicle that truly tests the patience of its owners, presenting a delightful exterior but often frustrating internal components. While charming and fuel-efficient, expect a higher frequency of repairs, especially in its early years, making it a decision that requires significant caution and a robust maintenance budget.
Why this year scores low
The Body Control Module (BCM) and associated wiring are notorious for causing a multitude of issues, from intermittent warning lights (airbag, ABS, engine) to non-functional accessories like power windows or infotainment glitches. These often manifest as phantom problems that are difficult to diagnose.
The MultiAir system, which controls valve lift and timing, is prone to failure, particularly the MultiAir actuator brick. This leads to rough idling, misfires, reduced power, and an illuminated 'check engine' light. Neglecting proper oil changes (specifically with recommended synthetic oil) significantly accelerates this wear.
Owners frequently report issues with the manual transmission's shifter cables stretching or failing, leading to difficulty engaging gears or a loose shifter. Clutch wear can also be accelerated due to the vehicle's driving characteristics and some initial clutch design shortcomings.
Proceed with caution
2013 Fiat 500
The 2013 Fiat 500 is a vehicle purchased for its undeniable charm and city-friendly size, not its bulletproof reliability. While it offers a spirited driving experience and unique styling, be prepared for a higher incidence of electrical gremlins and specific engine component failures that can quickly diminish its appeal.
Why this year scores low
The Body Control Module (BCM) is a known weak point, leading to erratic warning lights (CEL, ABS, Airbag), non-functional power windows, faulty door locks, and unreliable infotainment systems. Diagnostic nightmares are common.
The MultiAir actuator, a key component for variable valve lift, can fail due to incorrect oil, infrequent oil changes, or debris, resulting in rough idle, misfires, loss of power, and an illuminated Check Engine Light (CEL).
Failure of the HVAC blend door actuator is a common issue, leading to inconsistent heating or cooling, or air only blowing from certain vents. Replacement often requires extensive dashboard disassembly.
Proceed with caution
2014 Fiat 500
The 2014 Fiat 500 can be a charming and efficient urban companion, but it's far from a set-it-and-forget-it vehicle. Buyers should be acutely aware of its propensity for electrical gremlins and potential automatic transmission woes, which elevate its long-term ownership risk considerably. While fun to drive, this isn't a car for those who prioritize absolute reliability or have limited tolerance for unexpected repairs.
Why this year scores low
Body Control Modules (BCM) are prone to failure, causing a multitude of issues from intermittent starting problems to non-functional wipers, windows, or dashboard lights. Wiring harness integrity is also a concern, leading to sensor errors or component malfunctions.
The Aisin 6-speed automatic transmission is known for developing harsh shifts, clunking, hesitation, or complete failure. This is often linked to solenoid issues, torque converter problems, or internal wear, significantly impacting drivability and requiring expensive repairs.
Common complaints include excessive dashboard rattles, flimsy interior plastics that crack or scuff easily, and failures within the HVAC system, such as blower motor issues or malfunctioning blend doors. These issues, while not critical, detract significantly from the ownership experience.
Proceed with caution
2016 Fiat 500
The 2016 Fiat 500 is a stylish city car that offers unique charm, but its long-term reliability is significantly compromised by common issues with its automatic transmission and complex electrical system. While a manual transmission model can be a decent option for urban use, potential buyers must proceed with extreme caution and budget for possible expensive repairs, particularly if considering an automatic.
Why this year scores low
The 6-speed Aisin automatic transmission is a notorious weak point, prone to rough shifts, delayed engagement, solenoid issues, and premature failure, often requiring costly rebuilds or replacement.
Owners frequently report issues with the Uconnect infotainment freezing, various dashboard warning lights illuminating erratically, power window failures, and occasional battery drain issues, often tracing back to the Body Control Module (BCM).
The 1.4L MultiAir engine's unique electro-hydraulic valvetrain system (MultiAir unit) is highly sensitive to correct oil type and change intervals. Neglecting this leads to oil starvation and failure of the MultiAir actuator, causing misfires, reduced power, and eventually engine damage.
Proceed with caution
2018 Fiat 500
The 2018 Fiat 500 is a vehicle that charmingly defies convention, but its spirited personality often comes with mechanical quirks. While its compact size and unique style are appealing, prepare for a moderate risk of electrical gremlins and specific drivetrain issues that demand proactive maintenance and a thorough pre-purchase inspection.
Why this year scores low
Owners frequently report issues with the UConnect infotainment system, various sensors (ABS, airbag), window regulators, and occasionally the body control module (BCM). These often manifest as warning lights, system freezes, or intermittent component failures.
The MultiAir actuator system is sensitive to oil quality and change intervals, potentially leading to unit failure which results in misfires and reduced power. Turbocharger issues like wastegate actuator failure or oil line leaks are also noted.
The 5-speed manual can develop issues with shifter cables becoming stiff or sticky, and clutch wear can be accelerated. The 6-speed Aisin automatic is generally more robust but some reports of rough shifting or solenoid issues exist, particularly if fluid maintenance is neglected.
Proceed with caution
2015 Fiat 500
The 2015 Fiat 500 is a vehicle that charmingly defies convention but often frustrates with its mechanical quirks. While its compact size and distinctive style appeal, be prepared for a higher frequency of electrical gremlins and potential driveline issues, especially with the manual transmission. This isn't a set-it-and-forget-it car; it demands a discerning buyer and proactive maintenance to mitigate its known weaknesses.
Why this year scores low
Owners frequently report erratic warning lights, power window/lock failures, and issues with the Body Control Module (BCM). Wiring harnesses can be prone to chafing or corrosion, leading to intermittent problems that are difficult to diagnose.
The 5-speed manual transmission is notorious for premature clutch wear and noisy throwout bearings, especially in stop-and-go driving. Some reports include difficulty shifting or grinding gears due to internal component wear.
Premature wear of front suspension components, including struts, control arm bushings, and sway bar links, leads to clunking noises and reduced ride quality. Power steering assist motor issues, though less common, can occur.
Proceed with caution
2017 Fiat 500
The 2017 Fiat 500 offers undeniable charm and urban agility, but it demands a vigilant owner prepared for specific mechanical quirks. While its unique style is appealing, long-term reliability is significantly influenced by proactive maintenance, especially concerning its MultiAir engine and automatic transmission. Proceed with caution and a healthy repair budget to truly enjoy this distinctive city car.
Why this year scores low
The MultiAir actuator brick can fail due to improper oil type, infrequent oil changes, or sludge buildup. This leads to misfires, rough idling, reduced power, and eventually engine damage if not addressed.
The Aisin 6-speed automatic transmission can develop rough shifting, delayed engagement, or solenoid issues. This often manifests as clunking between gears or a failure to engage properly, requiring costly repairs.
Owners report various electrical glitches, including Uconnect infotainment system freezes, intermittent warning lights (Check Engine, Airbag), and failures of minor sensors (e.g., crank position sensor).