2018 Fiat 500L

The 2018 Fiat 500L is a compact multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) known for its distinctive Italian styling, spacious interior, and good visibility. It only came with a 1.4L turbocharged inline-4 MultiAir engine making 160 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. This engine was paired exclusively with a 6-speed automatic transmission. Owners generally appreciate the 500L’s unique appearance, comfortable ride, and ample cargo space. However, some common criticisms include the car’s unrefined driving experience, below-average reliability, and outdated infotainment system.

Engine

1.4L Turbocharged Inline-4 MultiAir

• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners report higher than normal oil consumption, requiring frequent top-offs between oil changes. Blue smoke from the exhaust may also be present.
  • Solution: In some cases, replacing the piston rings has resolved the issue. In more severe cases, engine replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, unusual noises (whining or screeching) from the turbocharger, and potentially an illuminated check engine light.
  • Solution: Turbocharger replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,200 - $2,500
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic

• Rough Shifting/Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or delayed shifts between gears, particularly when accelerating or decelerating.
  • Solution: Some owners have found that transmission fluid changes or software updates can improve shifting. In other cases, valve body replacement or complete transmission rebuild/replacement is required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 (fluid change) - $4,000+ (rebuild/replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Transmission Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: The engine revs high, but the vehicle does not accelerate as expected. This is due to the transmission not properly engaging gears.
  • Solution: Requires a transmission rebuild/replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000-$5,000
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Premature Wear of Struts/Shocks
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, excessive body roll in corners, and clunking noises from the suspension.
  • Solution: Replacement of worn struts and shocks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: Freezing, crashing, unresponsive touchscreen, Bluetooth connectivity issues, and failure of the backup camera.
  • Solution: Software updates are sometimes available. In other cases, replacement of the infotainment unit is necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (update) - $1,000+ (replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Power Window Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Windows failing to go up or down, or erratic operation.
  • Solution: Replacement of the window motor or regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400 per window
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• No Issues Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof may not open or close properly. The motor can fail or the seals can leak.
  • Solution: Sunroof motor replacement, seal replacement, or complete sunroof assembly replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,500
  • Recalls: None Found
• Seat Heater Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Seat heaters not functioning or only heating intermittently.
  • Solution: Replacement of the heating element or control module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500 per seat
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2018 Fiat 500L, while praised for its design and interior space, faces some significant reliability concerns. Engine issues like excessive oil consumption and turbocharger failure can be expensive to fix. The transmission can exhibit rough shifting and slipping, potentially leading to costly repairs. Electrical problems with the infotainment system and power windows are also common. Overall, the severity of these issues ranges from moderate to severe, with repair costs potentially reaching several thousand dollars. Potential buyers should carefully inspect the vehicle’s service history and consider a pre-purchase inspection to assess its condition.