2017 Fiat 500

2017 Fiat 500

Overview

The 2017 Fiat 500, a stylish and compact city car, generally offers a decent ownership experience, particularly for those prioritizing urban maneuverability and distinctive design. While it excels in its niche, like many small vehicles, it’s not without its potential reliability concerns. Owners often report a mixed bag of experiences, with some encountering minor electrical gremlins and others facing more significant powertrain issues, especially as mileage accumulates. The car’s charm can sometimes be overshadowed by the need for attentive maintenance and occasional repairs, particularly concerning its smaller displacement engines and specific transmission types. However, for many, the 500’s unique character and fuel efficiency outweigh these potential drawbacks.

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Engine

1.4L MultiAir (Naturally Aspirated)

Oil Leaks

• Symptoms: Visible oil spots under the vehicle, burning oil smell, low oil level warnings.
• Solution: Replacement of seals and gaskets (e.g., valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket).
• Cost: $300 - $600

MultiAir System Malfunctions

• Symptoms: Check engine light, rough idling, loss of power, engine misfires.
• Solution: Repair or replacement of the MultiAir solenoid or related components.
• Cost: $500 - $1200

1.4L MultiAir Turbo (Abarth Models)

Turbocharger Issues

• Symptoms: Reduced engine power, whistling noises from the engine bay, excessive smoke.
• Solution: Repair or replacement of the turbocharger unit.
• Cost: $1000 - $2500

Cooling System Leaks

• Symptoms: Overheating, coolant loss, visible leaks from hoses or radiator.
• Solution: Replacement of faulty hoses, radiator, or water pump.
• Cost: $400 - $900

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic

Harsh Shifting / Slipping

• Symptoms: Jerky gear changes, transmission slipping between gears, delayed engagement.
• Solution: Transmission fluid flush and filter replacement, or internal transmission repair/rebuild.
• Cost: $800 - $2500

Transmission Control Module (TCM) Failure

• Symptoms: Transmission warning light, inability to shift gears, erratic shifting behavior.
• Solution: Replacement of the TCM.
• Cost: $500 - $1000

5-Speed Manual

Clutch Wear

• Symptoms: Slipping clutch, difficulty engaging gears, burning smell.
• Solution: Clutch kit replacement (clutch disc, pressure plate, release bearing).
• Cost: $700 - $1300

Suspension

Standard Chassis

Worn Struts/Shocks

• Symptoms: Bouncy ride, excessive body roll, clunking noises over bumps.
• Solution: Replacement of front or rear struts/shocks.
• Cost: $400 - $800

Sway Bar Link Issues

• Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noises, especially when turning or going over uneven surfaces.
• Solution: Replacement of worn sway bar links.
• Cost: $150 - $300

Electrical

Body Control Module (BCM)

Intermittent Electrical Faults

• Symptoms: Malfunctioning power windows, interior lights, dashboard warning lights, keyless entry issues.
• Solution: Diagnosis and potential reprogramming or replacement of the BCM.
• Cost: $600 - $1500

Battery Drain

Parasitic Battery Drain

• Symptoms: Dead battery after sitting for a short period, frequent battery replacement.
• Solution: Identification and repair of the circuit causing the drain (e.g., faulty module, aftermarket accessory).
• Cost: $200 - $700

Exterior

Body Panels & Paint

Rust Formation

• Symptoms: Visible rust spots, particularly around wheel wells, door bottoms, and the sunroof.
• Solution: Rust treatment and repair, repainting affected areas.
• Cost: $300 - $1000+

Convertible Top (if applicable)

Leaking Seals

• Symptoms: Water ingress into the cabin, especially during rain or car washes.
• Solution: Replacement of worn or damaged weather stripping and seals.
• Cost: $200 - $500

Interior

Infotainment System

Uconnect System Glitches

• Symptoms: Screen freezing, unresponsiveness, Bluetooth connectivity issues, audio problems.
• Solution: Software updates, or replacement of the head unit.
• Cost: $300 - $1000

HVAC System

Blower Motor Failure

• Symptoms: No air coming from vents, or intermittent fan speed.
• Solution: Replacement of the cabin blower motor.
• Cost: $250 - $500

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Summary Verdict

The 2017 Fiat 500 presents a charming option for city dwellers, but potential buyers should be aware of its reliability profile. While not plagued by catastrophic failures, common issues tend to revolve around the electrical system, particularly the Body Control Module and parasitic battery drain, as well as potential oil leaks and MultiAir system problems in the naturally aspirated engines. Automatic transmission issues like harsh shifting can also arise. The turbocharged Abarth models introduce turbocharger and cooling system concerns. Regular maintenance and prompt attention to warning lights are crucial for mitigating these potential problems and ensuring a more positive ownership experience. Despite these points, many owners find the 500’s unique style and driving dynamics worth the occasional repair.