2017 Fiat 500L

Introduction

The 2017 Fiat 500L is a subcompact SUV that offers both versatility and affordability. It comes with a 1.4-liter turbocharged inline-4 engine paired with a 5-speed manual or 6-speed automatic transmission, producing 160 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. With its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and responsive handling, the 500L has received positive reviews for its practicality and fun-to-drive nature. However, like any vehicle, it is not without its issues.

Engine

• 1.4-liter Turbocharged Inline-4

  • Excessive Oil Consumption
    • Description/Symptoms: Some vehicles may experience excessive oil consumption, which can lead to low oil levels and potential engine damage.
    • Solution: Replace piston rings or perform an engine rebuild.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

• 5-Speed Manual

  • Gearbox Noise
    • Description/Symptoms: Some vehicles equipped with the 5-speed manual transmission may experience excessive noise, especially when shifting into third or fifth gear.
    • Solution: Replace the gearbox or specific components within it.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

• 6-Speed Automatic

  • Shifting Hesitation
    • Description/Symptoms: The transmission may hesitate or slip when shifting gears, causing a lack of responsiveness and potential safety issues.
    • Solution: Update the transmission software or replace the transmission control module.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

* **Rear Spring Failure**
    * Description/Symptoms: The rear suspension springs may break, causing the rear of the vehicle to sag and potentially compromising handling and stability.
    * Solution: Replace the rear suspension springs.
    * Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
    * Recalls: None Found

Electrical

* **Alternator Failure**
    * Description/Symptoms: The alternator may fail, causing insufficient power to be generated and leading to electrical problems such as battery drain and engine stalling.
    * Solution: Replace the alternator.
    * Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
    * Recalls: None Found

Exterior

* **Tailgate Latch Failure**
    * Description/Symptoms: The tailgate latch may fail to lock properly, potentially allowing the tailgate to swing open while driving.
    * Solution: Replace the tailgate latch assembly.
    * Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
    * Recalls: None Found

Interior

* **Seat Belt Sensor Malfunction**
    * Description/Symptoms: The seat belt sensor in the front passenger seat may malfunction, causing the seat belt warning light to stay on even when the seat belt is fastened.
    * Solution: Replace the seat belt sensor.
    * Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
    * Recalls: None Found

* **Air Conditioning Problems**
    * Description/Symptoms: The air conditioning system may experience various issues, such as weak airflow, insufficient cooling, or malfunctioning controls.
    * Solution: Diagnose and repair the specific component causing the issue, such as the compressor, condenser, or blower motor.
    * Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+
    * Recalls: None Found

Summary

Overall, the 2017 Fiat 500L is a generally reliable vehicle, but like any car, it has some known issues. Engine, transmission, and suspension problems can be costly to repair, but many of the other issues are less severe and relatively inexpensive to fix. While some of these issues can be annoying, they do not appear to be widespread or compromise the overall safety and reliability of the vehicle.