2013 Fiat 500
The 2013 Fiat 500 is a subcompact car known for its retro styling, nimble handling, and fuel efficiency. Engine options include a 1.4L MultiAir inline-4, producing 101 horsepower and 98 lb-ft of torque, and a turbocharged 1.4L MultiAir inline-4 in the 500 Abarth, boosting output to 135 horsepower and 150 lb-ft of torque. Transmission choices consist of a 5-speed manual and a 6-speed automatic. Owners often praise the 500 for its distinctive design and city-friendly size, but commonly cite its small back seat and limited cargo space as drawbacks. The reliability of the 2013 Fiat 500 has been a point of contention, with certain issues recurring across multiple vehicles.
Engine
1.4L MultiAir Inline-4 (Non-Turbo)
- Engine Oil Leaks
- Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks are a common issue. These can originate from various seals and gaskets, including the valve cover gasket and oil pan gasket. Symptoms include visible oil drips under the car, the smell of burning oil, and low oil levels.
- Solution: Replacing the leaking gasket or seal is the typical solution. Thoroughly cleaning the engine block after replacing is essential.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
- Recalls: None Found
- MultiAir Actuator Failure
- Description/Symptoms: The MultiAir system, which controls valve timing, is prone to failure. Symptoms include a check engine light, rough idling, reduced engine power, and stalling.
- Solution: Replacement of the MultiAir actuator is required. Some owners have reported that this issue can recur.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+
- Recalls: None Found
1.4L MultiAir Inline-4 (Turbo - Abarth)
- Turbocharger Issues
- Description/Symptoms: The turbocharger on the Abarth model can experience issues, including oil leaks, reduced boost pressure, and complete failure. Symptoms include a loss of power, whistling noises from the turbo, and a check engine light.
- Solution: Depending on the severity, the turbocharger may need to be repaired or replaced. Checking and replacing oil lines is essential.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2500+
- Recalls: None Found
- Engine Oil Leaks
- Description/Symptoms: Similar to the non-turbo engine, oil leaks can occur from the valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket, and turbocharger oil lines. Symptoms include visible oil drips, burning oil smell, and low oil levels.
- Solution: Replacing the leaking gasket or seal is the typical solution. Ensure correct torque specifications when reinstalling.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
5-Speed Manual
- Clutch Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Clutch slippage is a common issue, especially with aggressive driving. Symptoms include difficulty shifting gears, a burning smell, and the engine revving higher than expected during acceleration.
- Solution: Replacement of the clutch disc, pressure plate, and throw-out bearing is necessary. Some may need to replace the flywheel if it is damaged.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1500+
- Recalls: None Found
6-Speed Automatic
- Transmission Slipping/Rough Shifting
- Description/Symptoms: The automatic transmission can experience slipping between gears, rough or delayed shifting, and a general lack of responsiveness. These issues can be exacerbated when the vehicle is cold.
- Solution: A transmission flush and fluid change may resolve minor issues. However, in many cases, a valve body repair or complete transmission replacement is necessary.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 (fluid change) - $3500+ (replacement)
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Strut Mount Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Premature failure of the strut mounts, leading to clunking noises from the front suspension, especially when going over bumps.
- Solution: Replacement of the strut mounts, and often the struts themselves, is necessary.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Dashboard Warning Lights
- Description/Symptoms: Various warning lights, including the check engine light, ABS light, and airbag light, may illuminate intermittently or stay on constantly. This can be caused by sensor failures or electrical issues.
- Solution: Diagnosis with an OBD-II scanner is essential to identify the root cause. Common culprits include faulty sensors (e.g., O2 sensors, ABS sensors) or wiring harness problems.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ (depending on the issue)
- Recalls: None Found
- Battery Drain
- Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported issues with the battery draining quickly, even when the car is not in use. This can be caused by a parasitic draw from an electrical component.
- Solution: Identifying and addressing the parasitic draw is necessary. This may involve testing various circuits to isolate the component that is drawing power.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $400+
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Door Handle Breakage
- Description/Symptoms: The exterior door handles, particularly on the driver’s side, are prone to breakage.
- Solution: Replacement of the door handle assembly.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Sunroof Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Sunroof malfunctions, including failure to open or close properly, or water leaks.
- Solution: Repair or replacement of the sunroof motor, track, or seals may be necessary.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
- Recalls: None Found
- Seat Fabric Tears
- Description/Symptoms: The fabric used on the seats, particularly in high-wear areas such as the bolsters and seat bottoms, is prone to tearing.
- Solution: Replacing the seat fabric is the best solution.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+
- Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2013 Fiat 500, while stylish and fun to drive, is prone to several common issues that can impact its reliability. Engine oil leaks and MultiAir actuator failures are primary concerns for the 1.4L engine, while the Abarth model also faces potential turbocharger problems. Transmission issues, particularly with the automatic, and electrical gremlins, such as battery drain and sensor failures, can lead to significant repair costs. Suspension component failures can also affect ride quality. Overall, potential buyers should be aware of these issues and factor in the potential for repairs when considering a 2013 Fiat 500.