2020 Fiat 500X

Here’s a breakdown of common issues and complaints reported by owners of the 2020 Fiat 500X, organized by category and component. The 2020 Fiat 500X is a subcompact crossover known for its Italian styling and available all-wheel drive. For the 2020 model year, the 500X came standard with a 1.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 177 horsepower and 210 lb-ft of torque. This engine was paired exclusively with a nine-speed automatic transmission. People often appreciate the 500X’s unique design and nimble handling, but criticisms frequently include its small cargo space, somewhat dated infotainment system, and reliability concerns.

Engine

1.3L Turbocharged Four-Cylinder

• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported that their 2020 Fiat 500X with the 1.3L turbo engine consumes an excessive amount of oil, requiring frequent top-ups between oil changes. This can be indicated by the low oil level warning light illuminating, or noticing a burning oil smell.
  • Solution: The solution varies depending on the root cause. A leak-down test and compression test can help identify if piston rings or valve stem seals are to blame. Replacement of faulty components is the solution.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3,000+ depending on the required repairs and the shop doing the work.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Turbocharger Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Instances of turbocharger failure or malfunction have been reported. Symptoms include a loss of power, unusual noises from the engine compartment (whining, screeching), and the check engine light illuminating.
  • Solution: Diagnosis involves checking turbocharger pressure, inspecting the turbocharger for damage, and ensuring proper oil supply. Replacement of the turbocharger unit is usually required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,200 - $2,500
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

9-Speed Automatic

• Rough Shifting/Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: This is one of the most common complaints. Owners report experiencing harsh or jerky shifts between gears, especially at lower speeds. Hesitation when accelerating from a stop or when attempting to pass is also frequently mentioned.
  • Solution: A transmission fluid flush can sometimes alleviate the issue, though may not resolve it permanently. In more severe cases, a software update or valve body replacement may be necessary. Complete transmission replacement is a last resort.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Fluid flush: $200 - $400, Valve Body Replacement: $800 - $1,500, Transmission Replacement: $3,000 - $6,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Transmission Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission slipping refers to the engine revving without a corresponding increase in vehicle speed. This can occur during acceleration or when shifting gears.
  • Solution: Slipping often indicates internal damage within the transmission. Repair options range from valve body replacement to complete transmission overhaul or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Valve Body Replacement: $800 - $1,500, Transmission Overhaul: $2,000-$4,000, Transmission Replacement: $3,000 - $6,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Owners have reported various problems with the Uconnect infotainment system, including freezing, crashing, unresponsive touchscreens, and Bluetooth connectivity problems.
  • Solution: Restarting the system or performing a factory reset can sometimes temporarily resolve the issue. Software updates, if available, should be installed. In some cases, the head unit may need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Software update: Free (at dealership if under warranty or recall), Head Unit Replacement: $500 - $1,500
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sensor Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: Issues with various sensors, such as the tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) sensors, oxygen sensors, and parking sensors, have been reported. Symptoms include warning lights illuminating on the dashboard, inaccurate readings, or malfunctioning features.
  • Solution: Diagnosis involves using a diagnostic scan tool to identify the faulty sensor. Replacement of the sensor is usually required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: TPMS Sensor Replacement: $50 - $200 per sensor, Oxygen Sensor Replacement: $150 - $400, Parking Sensor Replacement: $100 - $300 per sensor
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have encountered problems with the sunroof mechanism, including difficulty opening or closing, unusual noises, and water leaks.
  • Solution: Diagnosis involves inspecting the sunroof tracks, seals, and motor. Repair may involve lubricating the tracks, replacing damaged seals, or replacing the sunroof motor or entire assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+ depending on the specific issue and required repairs.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

No Issues Found

Summary

The 2020 Fiat 500X presents a mixed bag of potential issues. The most concerning problems relate to the transmission, with rough shifting and potential slipping being the most prevalent. Electrical glitches, particularly with the infotainment system, are also relatively common. While some issues may be minor and inexpensive to fix, others, such as transmission problems or turbocharger failure, can be quite costly. Potential buyers should be aware of these potential issues and thoroughly inspect any used 2020 Fiat 500X before purchasing, and get a pre-purchase inspection completed to get ahead of these issues.