2019 Fiat 500L

The 2019 Fiat 500L is a quirky, small wagon that offers more passenger and cargo space than the regular Fiat 500. It’s powered by a 1.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 160 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired exclusively with a six-speed automatic transmission. Many owners appreciate the 500L’s distinctive styling, spacious interior, and relatively affordable price. However, some common complaints include its lackluster driving dynamics, reliability concerns, and somewhat dated infotainment system. Engine

1.4L Turbocharged Four-Cylinder

• Engine Misfires
  • Description/Symptoms: Hesitation during acceleration, rough idling, check engine light illumination. Often caused by faulty ignition coils or spark plugs.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty ignition coil(s) and/or spark plugs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil spots under the car, burning oil smell, low oil level warning. Common leak areas include the valve cover gasket and oil pan gasket.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking gasket(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Turbocharger Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Whining or whistling noise from the engine, reduced power, check engine light illumination. The turbocharger may be failing due to oil starvation or wear and tear.
  • Solution: Replace the turbocharger.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

Six-Speed Automatic

• Rough Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or jerky shifts between gears, especially during acceleration or deceleration. Can be caused by low transmission fluid, worn valve body, or internal transmission damage.
  • Solution: Check and top off or replace the transmission fluid. If the problem persists, the valve body may need to be replaced or the transmission rebuilt/replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (fluid change) - $3,000+ (transmission replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Transmission Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine revs high without a corresponding increase in vehicle speed. The transmission may be slipping due to worn clutch packs or low transmission fluid.
  • Solution: Check and top off or replace the transmission fluid. If the problem persists, the transmission may need to be rebuilt/replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (fluid change) - $3,000+ (transmission replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Noises
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or squeaking noises coming from the suspension when driving over bumps or turning. Can be caused by worn sway bar links, bushings, or struts.
  • Solution: Replace the worn suspension components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ per component
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Freezing, Crashing, Unresponsive Touchscreen.
  • Solution: Reset or update the software. If the problem persists, the unit might need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (Software) - $1000+ (Replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Premature battery failure, difficulty starting the vehicle.
  • Solution: Replace the battery.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• No Issues Found

Interior

• Sunroof Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof fails to open or close properly, or makes excessive noise when operating. Can be caused by a faulty motor, damaged tracks, or broken seals.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the sunroof motor, tracks, or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Door Handle Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Exterior door handles feel loose or break easily.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty door handle assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2019 Fiat 500L is a vehicle with a handful of common issues. Engine and transmission problems, such as misfires, oil leaks, rough shifting, and slipping, can range from minor inconveniences to costly repairs. Electrical gremlins with the infotainment system are also frequently reported. While some issues are relatively inexpensive to address, others like turbocharger failure or transmission replacement can be significantly more expensive.