2016 Fiat 500

The 2016 Fiat 500 is a stylish and compact city car known for its retro-inspired design and nimble handling. It’s generally appreciated for its fuel efficiency and ease of parking in tight spaces. However, some owners find the rear seats cramped and the cargo space limited. The base engine is a 1.4L MultiAir inline-4 producing 101 horsepower and 98 lb-ft of torque. A turbocharged version of the 1.4L MultiAir engine, delivering 135 horsepower and 150 lb-ft of torque, is available on the 500 Turbo and Abarth models. The 1.4L base engine can be paired with either a 5-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic transmission, while the turbocharged version also offers these two transmission options.

Engine

1.4L MultiAir Inline-4 (Non-Turbo)

• Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Owners report excessive oil consumption, requiring frequent top-offs between oil changes. Visible blue smoke from the exhaust may also be present.
  • Solution: In some cases, replacing the piston rings may resolve the issue. However, a complete engine rebuild or replacement may be necessary if the problem is severe.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $4000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Engine Misfires
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine misfires can occur, leading to rough idling, reduced power, and the check engine light illuminating.
  • Solution: The solution varies depending on the cause but often involves replacing faulty spark plugs, ignition coils, or fuel injectors.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

1.4L MultiAir Turbo Inline-4

• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, unusual noises from the engine bay (whining or screeching), and the check engine light coming on.
  • Solution: Replacing the failed turbocharger is the typical solution. Inspecting and replacing related components, such as oil lines, is also recommended.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000 - $2500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Coolant Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks can occur from various locations, including hoses, the water pump, and the thermostat housing. This can lead to overheating and engine damage.
  • Solution: Identifying and replacing the leaking component. Pressure testing the cooling system can help pinpoint the leak.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic

• Rough Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or jerky shifts between gears, particularly when accelerating or decelerating.
  • Solution: A transmission fluid flush may help in some cases. However, more severe cases may require valve body replacement or a complete transmission rebuild.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Transmission Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: The transmission slips, causing a delay in acceleration or a complete loss of power. The engine may rev high without the car moving.
  • Solution: This is often a sign of internal transmission damage, requiring a rebuild or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2000 - $4000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Worn Suspension Components
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noises from the suspension, particularly when driving over bumps. Poor handling and uneven tire wear can also be indicators.
  • Solution: Replacing worn components such as struts, shocks, control arms, and bushings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Radio/Infotainment System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The radio may malfunction, freeze, or fail to turn on. Bluetooth connectivity problems are also common.
  • Solution: Software updates may resolve some issues. However, hardware failures may require replacing the radio unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Power Window Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Power windows may stop working or operate erratically.
  • Solution: Replacing the window motor or regulator is the typical fix.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Door Handle Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The exterior door handles can break or become difficult to operate, making it hard to open the doors.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty door handle.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Seatbelt Retractor Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The seatbelt retractor mechanism may malfunction, preventing the seatbelt from retracting properly.
  • Solution: Replacing the seatbelt retractor assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2016 Fiat 500, while charming in its design and driving experience, can suffer from a range of issues. Engine problems, particularly oil consumption in the base engine and turbocharger failures in the turbocharged variant, can lead to costly repairs. Transmission issues, such as rough shifting and slipping in the automatic transmission, are also frequently reported. Electrical gremlins in the radio and power windows can be frustrating. While some fixes are relatively inexpensive, engine and transmission repairs can be quite costly. Potential buyers should be aware of these common problems and factor them into their purchasing decision, including budgeting for potential maintenance and repairs.