2011 Fiat 500

The 2011 Fiat 500 is a subcompact car known for its retro styling, fuel efficiency, and nimble handling, making it a popular choice for city driving. Engine options for the 2011 Fiat 500 in the US market included a 1.4-liter MultiAir inline-4 engine, producing 101 horsepower and 97 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options were a 5-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic. Owners often appreciate the car’s distinctive look, affordability, and ease of parking. Common dislikes include its small size (especially rear passenger space), and reports of some reliability issues.

Engine

1.4L MultiAir Inline-4

• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported higher-than-normal oil consumption, requiring frequent top-ups. Symptoms may include a low oil warning light illuminating, engine noise, or visible blue smoke from the exhaust.
  • Solution: Monitor oil levels regularly. In severe cases, piston ring replacement or engine rebuild might be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• MultiAir Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The MultiAir system controls valve timing and lift. Failure of the actuator can lead to rough running, poor performance, and a check engine light.
  • Solution: Replacement of the MultiAir actuator unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Coil Pack Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The coil pack may fail causing a misfire in the engine that triggers the check engine light to come on.
  • Solution: Replacement of the coil pack and spark plug.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Manual

• Clutch Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Premature clutch wear or failure. Symptoms include clutch slippage, difficulty shifting gears, and a high clutch pedal engagement point.
  • Solution: Clutch replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1,200+
  • Recalls: None Found

6-Speed Automatic

• Erratic Shifting/Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners report issues with the 6-speed automatic transmission, including harsh or erratic shifting, hesitation when accelerating, or failure to shift properly.
  • Solution: Fluid flush and fill with appropriate fluid.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Premature Bushing Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: The bushings in the front and rear suspension may wear out prematurely, leading to clunking noises, poor handling, and uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replacement of worn bushings or control arms.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Power Window Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Malfunctioning power windows, including windows not working at all or moving erratically.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the power window motor, regulator, or switch.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Body Control Module (BCM) Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Electrical glitches, such as lights malfunctioning, issues with the central locking system, or other erratic electrical behavior.
  • Solution: Diagnosis and reprogramming or replacement of the BCM.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Door Handle Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The exterior door handles, particularly the driver’s side, can break or become difficult to use.
  • Solution: Door handle replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Seat Frame Breakage
  • Description/Symptoms: The seat frames can break near the welds on the base of the seat.
  • Solution: Seat frame replacement
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2011 Fiat 500 can be a fun and economical car, but potential buyers should be aware of common issues. Engine problems, such as excessive oil consumption and MultiAir actuator failures, can be costly to repair. Transmission issues, particularly with the automatic, may also arise. Suspension bushing wear and electrical problems are other potential areas of concern. While some repairs are relatively inexpensive, engine and transmission work can lead to significant costs. Pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic is advisable.