2017 Fiat 500L

The 2017 Fiat 500L is a compact wagon known for its spacious interior and quirky Italian styling. It is powered by a 1.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, which produces 160 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. It comes paired with either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic transmission. Owners often appreciate the 500L’s roomy cabin, good visibility, and unique design. Some common dislikes include its unrefined ride quality, less-than-stellar fuel economy, and concerns about reliability.

Engine

1.4L Turbocharged Four-Cylinder

• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, whistling noise from the engine, check engine light.
  • Solution: Replace the turbocharger.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,200 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Low oil level warning light, needing to add oil frequently, blue smoke from exhaust.
  • Solution: Possible piston ring replacement or engine rebuild.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $6,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Coolant Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Low coolant levels, overheating, visible coolant leak under the vehicle. Often caused by cracks or leaks in the thermostat housing or radiator hoses.
  • Solution: Replace the thermostat housing, radiator hoses, or radiator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic

• Rough Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or jerky shifts between gears, especially during acceleration or deceleration.
  • Solution: Transmission fluid flush, software update, or possible valve body replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Delayed Engagement
  • Description/Symptoms: A noticeable delay when shifting into drive or reverse.
  • Solution: Transmission fluid flush, software update, or possible transmission rebuild.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

6-Speed Manual

• No Issues Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Freezing, Crashing, Unresponsiveness, Bluetooth connectivity problems, screen going blank.
  • Solution: Software update, replacement of the infotainment unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,200+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Power Window Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Window not going up or down, switch malfunction.
  • Solution: Window motor replacement, switch replacement
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Premature Wear of Suspension Components
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the suspension, uneven tire wear, poor handling.
  • Solution: Replacement of worn bushings, ball joints, or struts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks appearing on the dashboard surface, often due to sun exposure.
  • Solution: Dashboard replacement or dashboard cover installation.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Door Handle Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Door handle breaking or becoming loose, making it difficult to open the door.
  • Solution: Door handle replacement
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2017 Fiat 500L has several reported issues, ranging from minor inconveniences to potentially costly repairs. Engine problems, particularly turbocharger failure and oil consumption, can be significant. Transmission issues, particularly with the automatic, and electrical glitches are also prevalent. While some issues can be addressed with relatively inexpensive fixes, others, such as engine rebuilds or turbocharger replacements, can be quite expensive. Potential buyers should carefully inspect the vehicle’s history and consider a pre-purchase inspection to identify any potential problems.