Abarth 500 problems (2008–2016)

The only engine of the Abarth 500 that we have documented, the 1.4 T-Jet, has high or critical severity faults in the versions it is fitted to. Our verdict for the versions it is fitted to: «With caution». The Abarth 500 (2008-2016) shares its platform with the Fiat 500. Outside the engine, the sources document three preventive recalls that name it (doors 2012, seat 2015-2016 and steering box 2017) and, on the Fiat 500, minor recurring faults with the tailgate wiring, bearings, suspension and door handles. There is no pattern of serious faults.

The Abarth 500 (2008-2016) shares its platform with the Fiat 500. Outside the engine, the sources document three preventive recalls that name it (doors 2012, seat 2015-2016 and steering box 2017) and, on the Fiat 500, minor recurring faults with the tailgate wiring, bearings, suspension and door handles. There is no pattern of serious faults. The most important documented faults are: unsuitable front right seat guides: the seat may not lock in place and could come loose (2016 campaign) (bodywork and interior, critical severity), door trim that can break and injure occupants in a side impact (2013 campaign) (bodywork and interior, high severity), steering box with insufficient lubrication due to water ingress: stiff or locked steering (2017 recall) (steering, high severity) and wheel bearing wear and suspension play on the 500 Abarth-platform (suspension, medium severity).^{[11][12][13][14][15]}

The most important by severity and frequency, on the engines we have documented, are: premature turbocharger failure or wear (1.4 T-Jet, high severity), multiAir (UniAir) electro-hydraulic unit failure (1.4 T-Jet, medium severity), high oil consumption (1.4 T-Jet, medium severity) and misfires and ignition coil faults (1.4 T-Jet, medium severity).

According to our rating by year, the best is 2008 (6.8/10); the worst rated is 2015 (5.7/10). Each year's rating counts only the engines sold that year and the faults that affect those units: open each year to see what changes.

Yes: we have documented 3 campaigns for the Abarth 500, such as steering box: water ingress and insufficient lubrication (Fiat 500 / Abarth 500, March 2017) (2017). Check with your VIN at the official service centre whether yours has been done.^[13]