2011 Fiat 500 problems

General information about Fiat-500
Overview of popular issues
Analysis of common problems
Сomplaints list
Recalls list

The Fiat 500 (Italian: Cinquecento, pronounced ) is an economy / city car that was manufactured and marketed by Fiat Automobiles from 1957 until 1975. It was sold as a two-door semi-convertible or saloon car and as a three-door panel van or estate car.

Launched as the Nuova (new) 500 in July 1957, as a successor to the 500 "Topolino", it was an inexpensive and practical small car. Measuring 2.97 metres (9 feet 9 inches) long, and originally powered by a rear-mounted 479 cc two-cylinder, air-cooled engine, the 500 was 24.5 centimetres (9.6 inches) smaller than Fiat's 600, launched two years earlier, and is considered one of the first purpose-designed city cars.

In 1959, Dante Giacosa received a Compasso d'Oro industrial design prize for the Fiat 500. This marked the first time a Compasso d’Oro was awarded to an automotive manufacturer.

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Common 2011 Fiat 500 problems

The Fiat 500, produced in 2011, is known for its compact design and affordability. However, like any vehicle, it has its share of common problems that owners have reported.

Suspension Problems: The Fiat 500, particularly models manufactured between 2012 and 2015, has received numerous complaints about its suspension system. Drivers have reported a clunking noise from the front of the vehicle, especially when driving over uneven surfaces or small potholes. This problem is often associated with the vehicle's strut mounts becoming worn prematurely.

Engine Overheating: Another common problem with the Fiat 500 is an overheating engine. This can be caused by a coolant leak, a damaged water pump, or a clogged coolant hose. A key indicator of this problem is white smoke coming out from your exhaust pipe. If this happens, it's crucial to pull over immediately, switch off your engine, and allow it to cool down for at least 15 minutes before attempting to continue your journey.

Power Steering Problems: The power steering system in the Fiat 500 has also been a source of complaints. A loss in power steering can be noticed with a slow or stiff responding steering wheel, or most commonly, a puddle of red liquid below your car, indicating a power steering fluid leak. Fiat has had to recall several models due to this problem, caused by faulty wiring below the steering column.

These are some of the most common problems reported by owners of the Fiat 500, particularly models from 2011. While these issues can be concerning, they are not necessarily indicative of a poorly made vehicle. Regular maintenance and timely repairs can help mitigate these problems and ensure the longevity of the car.

2011 Fiat 500 car problems categorized by type of issue

After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Fiat 500 problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:

Unknown or other problems
Service brakes problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 2011 Fiat 500 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

2011 Fiat 500 complaints

The NHTSA has received 1 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2011 Fiat 500.

2017-11-27

UNKNOWN OR OTHER,SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2017-11-22
VIN: 3C3CFFBR2FT
Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER,SERVICE BRAKES
Summary: TL-CONTACT OWNS A 2015 FIAT 500 SPORT.... CONTACT STATED VEHICLE HAS 23000 MILES,,, CONTACT STATED DEALERSHIP TOLD HIM THE VEHICLE WARRANTY IS EXPIRED... WENT TO REPLACE BRAKE PADS... CONTACT STATED DEALERSHIP FILED A FALSE VEHICLE INSPECTION REPORT... STATED DEALERSHIP TOLD HIM HE HAD TO PAY FOR NEW ROTORS AND BRAKE PADS DUE TO VEHICLE HAVING NO WARRANTY.. [XXX]... 0 RECALLS ASSOCIATED WITH THIS VIN.... INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *TR

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2011 Fiat 500 recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 2011 Fiat 500.

2019-07-03

Manufacturer: DLT, LLC
Components: POWER TRAIN:MANUAL TRANSMISSION:FLOOR SHIFT ASSEMBLY
Summary: DLT, LLC. is recalling certain CravenSpeed Fiat Short Shifter shafts sold for use in 2011-2019 Fiat 500 vehicles. The Shifter Shaft may have been improperly manufactured with a through hole for the set screw rather than a blind hole, which may lead to the breakage of the Shifter Shaft.
Consequence: If the shifter breaks while the vehicle is in motion, it can increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy: DLT has notified owners, and will provide a complete replacement shifter assembly with an updated shaft, free of charge. The recall began July 24, 2019. Owners may contact DLT customer service at 1-503-505-6886.