Engine
1.4L 4-cyl
How to read this file. Complaint records are unverified owner submissions to the federal safety agency. Counts are raw, not adjusted for sales volume or vehicle age. Recall campaigns apply to the model; only a VIN check shows whether this car is affected or repaired. Parts shown are named by an editorial note or listed as a search directory; none is a diagnosis. Full methodology.
Fault profile
Complaint-component records on this vehicle, grouped by family. A complaint naming two systems counts once in each.
Complaints are owner-reported and not verified by the agency.
When it fails
The timing of this vehicle's reported failures, from the complaint file itself. A cluster tells you what to expect and when; it is shaped by reporting behavior as well as by the vehicle.
Vehicle age when the failure occurred
Years between the model year and the owner's reported failure date. Based on 395 of 396 complaints with a usable failure date.
Odometer when the failure occurred
Owner-reported mileage at failure, in 20,000-mile bands. Based on 275 of 396 complaints reporting a plausible odometer (500 to 500,000 miles; unverified).
Known issues
The component families with the most complaint records against this vehicle. Counts, crash and fire figures belong to the whole family, not to any single named issue. Parts listed are related system parts, not a diagnosis.
Power train
203 complaint records1 crash report
"2012 FIAT 500. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARDS TO MANUAL TRANSAXLE/CLUTCH PEDAL RECALL 16V-302 TECHNICAL DIFFICULTIES. *SMD..."- one owner's federal complaint about this system; it may not describe the issue named above
Parts
No specific part is named for this issue. Browse power train parts in the directory →
Electrical system
63 complaint records3 fire reports3 crash reports
"THE HATCH SWITCH HAS HAD TO BE REPAIRED 3 TIMES. ITS A DESIGN FLAW THAT SHORTS OUT THE SWITCH. THERE SHOULD BE A RECALL!..."- one owner's federal complaint about this system; it may not describe the issue named above
Parts
No specific part is named for this issue. Browse electrical system parts in the directory →
Engine & cooling
53 complaint records1 crash report
"CONCERNS THAT VEHICLE S34 RECALL HAS NEVER BEEN COMPLETE VEHICLE IS NOW FOR SALE AT A CAR DEALERSHIP NO PAPER TRAIL ON THE RECALL...."- one owner's federal complaint about this system; it may not describe the issue named above
Parts
No specific part is named for this issue. Browse engine & cooling parts in the directory →
Federal defect investigations
Formal investigations opened by the federal safety agency into this vehicle. An investigation is the step between a complaint pattern and a recall; not every one results in one.
| Investigation | Status | Component | Subject |
|---|---|---|---|
| EA19001 opened Apr 2019 | closed Sep 2024 | Air Bags | Electrical overstress - led to recall 20V024 The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened this investigation to determine if the failure of airbags to deploy during severe crashes, in certain vehicles, was the result of a safety related defect. |
Recall campaigns
Safety-recall remedies are normally provided at no charge. Under US federal law the mandatory free remedy applies when the vehicle was no more than 15 years old at the time the defect was determined; manufacturers often cover older vehicles voluntarily. Canadian rules differ. Confirm eligibility with the manufacturer using the VIN. Each campaign number links to the federal record.
| Campaign | Component | Summary | Remedy |
|---|---|---|---|
| 19V817000 | Power Train | Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2012-2013 Fiat 500 vehicles equipped with 6-speed automatic transmissions. The shifter cable bushing may fail allowing the cable to detach from the transmission. | Normally free |
| 16V302000 | Power Train | Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain model year 2012-2016 Fiat 500 vehicles manufactured June 21, 2010, through January 12, 2016, equipped with a manual transmission. | Normally free |
| 11V550000 | Service Brakes, Hydraulic | CHRYSLER IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2012 DODGE JOURNEY AND FIAT 500 VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM OCTOBER 24, 2011, THROUGH OCTOBER 26, 2011. | Normally free |
Transport Canada recalls
Recalls issued under Canadian law for this model year, from Transport Canada's Vehicle Recalls Database. Matched by model name, so a Canadian-market variant may appear here that was sold under another name in the US. Units are Canadian vehicles affected.
| Recall | System | Units (CA) | Summary |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2024548 2024-08-15 | Label | 314,717 | Issue: On certain vehicles, the tire and loading information label does not list that there is no spare tire in both official languages. The label reads as "NONE" when it should read as "NONE / AUCUN". |
| 2019577 2019-11-15 | Powertrain | 10,627 | Issue: On certain vehicles equipped with a 6-speed automatic transmission, the shifter cable may detach. This could cause the transmission not to shift gears when the shifter is moved. |
| 2016217 2016-05-12 | Powertrain | 7,819 | On certain vehicles equipped with a manual transmission, clutch diaphragm springs may crack or become damaged, which could result in the driver being unable to shift gears, or potentially result in a loss of motive power. |
| 2015578 2015-12-04 | Lights And Instruments | 17,516 | Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) Canada is conducting a voluntary Customer Satisfaction Notification Program involving certain vehicles equipped with automatic transmissions. |
| 2011400 2011-11-14 | Brakes | 40 | Certain vehicles may have had their brake system inadvertently filled with contaminated brake fluid during vehicle assembly. |
Show 1 more Canadian recalls
| Recall | System | Units (CA) | Summary |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2011315 2011-08-23 | Label | 5,652 | On certain vehicles, the compliance label indicates the vehicle type in the unilingual text "PASSENGER CAR" instead of using text in both official languages, or using the bilingual abbreviation "PC/VT". |
Service bulletins and warranty extensions
Manufacturer communications to dealers on file with the federal agency: repair instructions, service campaigns, and warranty extensions. A warranty extension means the manufacturer may pay for a repair the recall table does not cover.
| Bulletin | Type | Component | Summary |
|---|---|---|---|
| 23-021-26 Jun 2026 | Structure | Broken Exterior Driver And/Or Passenger Door Handles XB2 Warranty Extension Customers may comment the following: ● One or both exterior door handles are broken. This bulletin involves replacing one or both exterior door handles. | |
| 9100624 Jul 2025 | Engine | Verify Reman part number availability. Order the "R" part number for all orders: | |
| 9100229 Sep 2023 | Suspension | LIFTER, Hydraulic Roller Deactivating Please do not replace MDS lifters because the disconnecting pin is not lined up, this is normal and not a defect. | |
| 9100226 Sep 2023 | Electrical System | Connector kit Before ordering this connector repair kit 68018957A$, check it in the Mopar Connector Repair Kit Website to confirm part number and applicability. | |
| 9100196 Jul 2023 | Equipment | Lubrication and Maintenance Fluids If MOPAR fluids and chemicals are not readily available, please review Service Library for specifications so a suitable alternative can be used |
Show 55 more bulletins
| Bulletin | Type | Component | Summary |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1804823 Apr 2023 | Engine And Engine Cooling | wiTECH Small Leak Verification Test (SLVT) - P0456-EVAP SYSTEM SMALL LEAK | |
| 3100122 Aug 2022 | Structure | Approved Use of Weld Through Primers This bulletin documents the FCA US LLC position regarding the use of weld through primer when using Squeeze Type Resistance Spot Welding (STRSW) and Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW) processes when welding steel body panels and structural... | |
| S2209000004 Apr 2022 | Engine And Engine Cooling | If a Mopar oil filter is not available, use a filter that meets or exceeds USCAR36 specification and is compatible with semi and full synthetic oils. | |
| S2109000004 Jul 2021 | Engine And Engine Cooling | Issue involves overheating, running hot, coolant leaks and related symptoms after a Mopar replacement engine has been installed in the vehicle. | |
| S1821000001 Apr 2021 | Power Train | Gear Ratio DTC?s, Transmission Shift Concerns, Does Not Shift At Times, Shudders | |
| 9004009 Apr 2021 | Power Train | Transmission Kit with Torque Converter 1. All Promaster (VF) 3.6L/62TE equipped vehicles. If the transmission bracket to the transmission case fasteners are removed during servicing, the fasteners (Part Number 06511385A$) are one-time usage. | |
| S2008000118 Aug 2020 | Electrical System | HVAC Control Panel Illumination Inoperative | |
| 23-015-20 Apr 2020 | Equipment | Disinfectant Solution Recommended for COVID-19 | |
| 08-049-20 Apr 2020 | Equipment | Charging System, Battery Diagnostic Tools and Warranty This information only bulletin discusses using the correct test equipment for testing batteries and charging systems, and also warranty reimbursement when battery replacements are necessary. | |
| 18-039-20 Apr 2020 | Fuel System | Possible Driveability Issues due to the Winter-Blend Fuel into the Warmer Season | |
| 9004022 Dec 2019 | Suspension | Air Suspension Components Star Parts Catalog has been updated to show individual service parts for the compressor assembly. This will allow service technicians to repair the root cause without over repairing the system. | |
| 31-006-19 Nov 2019 | Structure | Repair Parts Used For Structural Repairs This bulletin involves discussing FCA US LLC position with regard to structural repair parts usage. | |
| 31-004-19 Nov 2019 | Visibility | Authentic Mopar® Glass Replacement This bulletin involves discussing FCA US LLC position with regard to collision repair industry awareness regarding the recommended usage of Authentic Mopar® Glass. | |
| 31-003-19 Nov 2019 | Equipment | Use of Salvage/Recycled Parts This bulletin involves discussing FCA US LLC position with regard to collision repair industry awareness regarding the use of recycled or salvage parts. | |
| 31-005-19 Nov 2019 | Equipment | Use of Aftermarket Parts This bulletin involves discussing FCA US LLC position with regard to collision repair industry awareness regarding the use of aftermarket parts. | |
| 3100619 Nov 2019 | Equipment | Repair Parts Used For Structural Repairs This bulletin involves discussing FCA US LLC position with regard to structural repair parts usage. | |
| 3100419 Nov 2019 | Visibility | Authentic Mopar® Glass Replacement This bulletin involves discussing FCA US LLC position with regard to collision repair industry awareness regarding the recommended usage of Authentic Mopar® Glass. | |
| 3100319 Nov 2019 | Structure | Use of Salvage/Recycled Parts This bulletin involves discussing FCA US LLC position with regard to collision repair industry awareness regarding the use of recycled or salvage parts. | |
| 3100519 Nov 2019 | Structure | Use of Aftermarket Parts This bulletin involves discussing FCA US LLC position with regard to collision repair industry awareness regarding the use of aftermarket parts. | |
| 9003220 Aug 2019 | Equipment | RADIO [RES] - New and/or Service Exchange For RES radio concerns. Use the wiTECH 2.0 and inspect the radio part number and serial number under the Radio/ECU Details tab. Please verify that the radio part number and/or serial number is not "FFFF". | |
| 9003791 Oct 2017 | Electrical System | 1.4L FIRE Service Engine (Normally Aspirated) This engine in this kit will contain one of 8 different production full dress engines, but labeled as component engine 68275870AA or 71AA. | |
| 9003109 Jun 2017 | Visibility | Washer Fluid Level Sensor Prior to replacing this part due to "Low Washer Fluid" tell tale light on the dash and the washer fluid bottle is full, please perform this inspection: Check if float sensor is rotated off location from the bottle anti-rotation features that surround... | |
| 9003694 Mar 2017 | Engine And Engine Cooling | Oil Pump Assembly If error code P06DD present on any Pentastar V6 application, please inspect oil pump for relief valve failure. See photo attached. | |
| 9003687 Mar 2017 | Seat Belts | Restraints Remove I-Sheet from packaging. Correct information sheet (I-Sheet) has been added to Star Parts. Print I-Sheet for technician use. | |
| 9003681 Mar 2017 | Seat Belts | Restraints Information Sheet (I-Sheet) has been added to Star Parts. Print I-Sheet for technician use. | |
| 05152029 Sep 2016 | Visibility/Wiper | Washer Fluid Level Sensor Prior to replacing this part due to "Low Washer Fluid" tell tale light on the dash and the washer fluid bottle is full, please perform the this inspection. Inspect the sensor for a fluid coating on the sensor pins. | |
| 18-053-16 May 2016 | Power Train | SYMPTOM/CONDITION: Customers may experience a Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) illumination. Upon further investigation the technician may find that the following Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) have been set: P1128-00 - Closed Loop Fueling Not Achieved - Bank 1 Upstream. | |
| 1805316 May 2016 | Power Train | Diagnostic And System Improvements. | |
| Z5091195A$ May 2016 | Equipment | RES / RHA / REB radio that supports Bluetooth and Hands-Free For issues with Bluetooth, Hands-Free Calling, and/or Voice Commands, DO NOT replace the radio. Diagnose the Hands-Free Module system (also called the Telematics Module). | |
| Z5091195A May 2016 | Electrical System | RES / RHA / REB radio that supports Bluetooth and Hands-Free For issues with Bluetooth, Hands-Free Calling, and/or Voice Commands, DO NOT replace the radio. Diagnose the Hands-Free Module system (also called the Telematics Module). | |
| 68277402A Apr 2016 | Vehicle Speed Control | Adaptive Cruise Control Sensor 1) If you are replacing this part due to the cluster displaying Clean Radar Sensor in Front of Vehicle or DTC C1266 ACC Sensor Blinded, please verify that there is no blockage in front of the sensor. | |
| S20 Apr 2016 | Equipment | Customer Satisfaction Notification S20 Reprogram Powertrain Control Module The Powertrain Control Module (PCM) software on about 81,000 of the above vehicles may have backup lamp illumination timing that does not meet customer expectations. | |
| 08-031-16 Mar 2016 | Equipment | Hands Free Module Prompts Begin Erroneously This bulletin involves diagnosing and based on outcome, either performing a USB flash or replacing the Mopar accessory Hands Free Module (HFM). | |
| 0803116 Mar 2016 | Electrical System | Hands Free Module Prompts Begin Erroneously. | |
| RL108213A$ Jan 2016 | Engine And Engine Cooling | NAG1 (5A580) Valve Body As per Warranty Bulletin D-13-22, please use R2108213A$ valve body for all Warranty (W), Mopar (M) and Mopar Vehicle Protection (F) claims.~ Assembly also includes Filter (52108325AA) and Gasket (52108332AA).~ | |
| 18-027-15 REV C Dec 2015 | Electrical System | SUMMARY TO BE PROVIDED ON A FUTURE DATE. | |
| 18-027-15 Rev. C Dec 2015 | Electrical System | Flash: 1.4L Diagnostic And System Improvements This bulletin involves reprogramming the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) with the latest available software. Customers may experience a Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) illumination. | |
| 1802715 Rev C Dec 2015 | Electrical System | Diagnostic And System Improvements. | |
| 1802715RevC Dec 2015 | Power Train | Diagnostic And System Improvements. | |
| 18-087-15 Nov 2015 | Electrical System | SUMMARY TO BE PROVIDED ON A FUTURE DATE. | |
| 1808715 Nov 2015 | Electrical System | System Improvements. | |
| 18-027-15 REV-B Oct 2015 | Engine | Flash: 1.4L Diagnostic And System Improvements This bulletin involves selectively erasing and reprogramming the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) with new software. Customers may experience one of the following: ? Intermittent fast crank condition ? Cranks as if no compression ? | |
| 18-027-15 REV. B Oct 2015 | Power Train | Flash: 1.4L Diagnostic And System Improvements This bulletin involves selectively erasing and reprogramming the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) with new software. Customers may experience one of the following: ? Intermittent fast crank condition ? Cranks as if no compression ? | |
| 18-027-15 REVA Apr 2015 | Service Brakes | Flash:1.4L Diagnostic And System Improvements This bulletin involves selectively erasing and reprogramming the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) with new software. A small number of customers may experience a Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) illumination. | |
| 19-002-15 Apr 2015 | Steering | CHRYSLER 2012-2015 FIAT 500: SERVICE BULLETIN INFORMATION AND REPAIR PROCEDURE FOR NOISE IN THE STEERING COLUMN WHILE TURNING THE STEERING WHEEL. *LJ | |
| 18-027-15 Apr 2015 | Electrical System | CHRYSLER 2012-2013 FIAT 500/ABARTH : THIS BULLETIN SUPERSEDES 18-007-14 REV B. DATED OCTOBER 18,2014 PLEASE REMOVE FROM YOUR FILES. INFORMATION ON THE DIAGNOSTIC AND SYSTEM IMPROVEMENTS WHICH REQUIRES ERASING AND REPROGRAMMING POWER CONTROL MODULE SOFTWARE. *LJ | |
| 9002692 Feb 2015 | Seats | Part Description: Armrest Issue Description: When ordering a replacement armrest for a FIAT 500 VEHICLE built prior to 4/23/2012, a new FRAME-FRONT SEAT BACK is required (68194579AA). ~ Refer to DealerConnect, TechConnect for repair instructions for this assembly. | |
| 9002887 Feb 2015 | Engine And Engine Cooling | Part Description: Valve Body Assembly Issue Description: Valve body design was changed between 2010MY and 2011MY applications. To prevent mix matching valve bodies and solenoid packs the connectors are color coded.~ Valve bodies with a white connector can be used on 2010, 2009,... | |
| 18-007-14 REV. B Oct 2014 | Power Train | Flash:1.4L Diagnostic And System Improvements This bulletin involves selectively erasing and reprogramming the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) with new software. A small number of customers may experience a Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) illumination. | |
| 02-006-14 Sep 2014 | Suspension | SUMMARY TO BE PROVIDED ON A FUTURE DATE. | |
| 0200614 Sep 2014 | Back Over Prevention | Front Suspension Clunk Noise While Making Left And Right Turns This bulletin involves replacing the front strut jounce bumpers. Clunk noise coming from the front suspension. Noise may be more noticeable during cold temperatures below 40°F (4°C). | |
| 18-007-14REV.A Aug 2014 | Electrical System | SUMMARY TO BE PROVIDED ON A FUTURE DATE. | |
| 18-007-14 REV. A Aug 2014 | Engine And Engine Cooling | Flash: Engine Crank, No Start and/or Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) Illumination This bulletin involves selectively erasing and reprogramming the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) with new software. Customers may complain of an intermittent crank, no start condition. | |
| 23-015-14 Jun 2014 | Visibility | SUMMARY TO BE PROVIDED ON A FUTURE DATE. | |
| 17-001-14 Jun 2014 | Suspension | Rear Axle Alignment Shims This bulletin is to inform service personnel of the availability of rear axle alignment shims. |
Showing 60 of 89 distinct bulletins on file for this vehicle.
Before you buy this vehicle
A test-drive checklist generated from this vehicle's own complaint and recall record.
- Drive it from a dead stop, twice, on a hill if you can.Shudder, hesitation, or a lurch under light throttle is how this vehicle's largest complaint cluster shows itself. Then ask for the transmission service history in writing; repeat repairs are a pattern, not a fluke.
- Sit in it with the engine off and test everything that has a switch.Windows, locks, lights, the cluster, the radio. Electrical faults are this vehicle's story and the hardest to see on a drive: an intermittent no-start waits for the second week of ownership. Ask for the battery's age and whether any control module has been replaced.
- Cold-start it yourself and listen for the first thirty seconds.Knocking, ticking that fades as it warms, or blue or white smoke on startup are the sounds of this vehicle's engine cluster. Check the oil level and the coolant color, and ask whether the engine or its head gaskets have ever been out.
- Run the VIN against open recalls before you negotiate.This vehicle has 3 recall campaigns on file. An open recall needs VIN-specific confirmation. Many are quick, no-charge fixes and worth negotiating over; an unresolved do-not-drive advisory, or a remedy the manufacturer has not yet made available, should stop the purchase until it is resolved.
- Ask for the service history in writing, then read it against this page.The complaint families above are where owners of this vehicle report trouble. Repairs in exactly those systems are evidence the car had the problem; no such repairs could mean it never developed it, or that it was never fixed. The test-drive items above are how you tell those apart.
Parts search directory
The generic parts list for this vehicle has its own page: a search launcher for every system, filtered by fuel type and era but not by engine, trim, or brake type. It is not a diagnosis and not a fitment guarantee.
Open the parts directory for this Fiat 500 →