2018 Fiat 500x problems
The Fiat 500X (Type 334) is a subcompact crossover SUV manufactured and marketed by Stellantis (formerly Fiat Chrysler Automobiles), since its debut at the 2014 Paris Motor Show. Following the 500L, and produced from 2014 (from 2016 model year for US), the 500X is closely related to the Jeep Renegade. Both are manufactured at FCA's SATA Plant in Melfi, Italy.
Specifications
The 500X is based on the Small Wide 4×4 architecture, a platform evolved from the GM Fiat Small platform used for the Fiat Grande Punto and Fiat 500L.
The Fiat 500X is available with several engines with optional all-wheel drive with most. At launch, engines available outside of North America included: one gasoline, the turbocharged 1.4 MultiAir2, and two MultiJet turbodiesels displacing 1.6 and 2.0 litres.
In North America, the Fiat 500X features:
- A 1
- A normally aspirated 2
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Common 2018 Fiat 500x problems
The Fiat 500X, a popular compact model, has received several complaints from owners regarding various issues. Here are the most common problems with the Fiat 500X 2018, based on the search results:
- Electrical Problems: Several complaints report continuous electrical issues during ownership, including batteries needing to be replaced several times, headlamps intermittently losing power, and infotainment systems failing. These issues can affect the overall functionality and safety of the vehicle.
- Transmission Problems: Transmission failure and reverse synchronizer failure are common issues with the Fiat 500X, with some complaints reporting complete transmission failure at just 15,000 miles. These problems can make the vehicle difficult to drive and require expensive repairs.
- Exterior Accessory Problems: The most common exterior accessory failure is the driver's door handle, which has been known to fall off with use. This issue can affect the vehicle's appearance and functionality.
- Brake Problems: Issues with brakes are always concerning, and the top reported brake problem for the Fiat 500X is the electronic parking brake, which can get stuck in the locked position and immobilize the vehicle. This issue can affect the safety of the vehicle.
- Suspension Problems: The Fiat 500X has received a number of complaints from drivers regarding its suspension system, in particular for models manufactured between 2012-2015. Drivers have reported a clunking noise coming from the front of the vehicle, more noticeably when driving over uneven surfaces and small potholes. This problem can be commonly associated with the vehicle's strut mounts becoming worn prematurely.
- Power Steering Problems: An issue with the power steering system has also been reported by drivers with the Fiat 500. 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 been forced to recall a number of models due to this problem, caused by faulty wiring below the steering column which made the steering wheel difficult to control.
- AC Problems: Some owners have reported issues with the air conditioning system, including parts replacement and recalls. These issues can affect the comfort of the vehicle, especially during hot weather.
- Door and Trunk Problems: Some owners have reported problems with the door not closing properly and the trunk light falling. These issues can affect the functionality and safety of the vehicle.
- Thermostat Problems: Some owners have reported issues with the thermostat, which can affect the temperature control of the vehicle.
- Rattling Noise: Some owners have reported a rattling noise when hitting the gas pedal, which can affect the driving experience and indicate a mechanical issue.
These common problems with the Fiat 500X 2018 should be taken into consideration when purchasing or owning this vehicle. Regular maintenance and inspections can help prevent or address these issues, but some problems may require expensive repairs or replacement parts.
Are Fiat 500X expensive to maintain?
The annual maintenance cost of a Fiat 500X is $503.
Is Fiat 500 2018 a good car?
Highs Fun retro styling, quick steering, tons of character. Lows Slow base engine, cramped rear seat, small touchscreen. Verdict The Fiat 500 will appeal to buyers looking for a quirky, fun, retro hatchback.
Is Fiat 500X being discontinued?
The smallest Jeep is getting the axe, as the Renegade will exit the U.S. market after the 2023 model year. Fiat also confirmed that the related 500X will say goodbye for 2024.
How long can a Fiat 500X last?
What is Fiat 500x lifespan? The estimated lifespan of a Fiat 500x is 123,000mi, before reaching the life expectancy upper limit. Fuel type is a major factor when looking into a vehicles lifespan/life expectancy.
2018 Fiat 500x car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Fiat 500x problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Engine problems
- Electrical system problems
- Power train problems
- Fuel/propulsion system problems
- Service brakes problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2018 Fiat 500x vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
2018 Fiat 500x complaints
The NHTSA has received 10 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2018 Fiat 500x.
POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-05-26
- VIN: ZFBCFXAB5JP
- Components: POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: THE Transmission Valve Body Solenoid was diagnosed as not working. while i was driving on the highway without any indication the car just started slowing down . There was not a warning or anything, then the transmission service lights up, i had to have my car towed to a dealership however they informed me that there was never any service they were supposed to do on my transmission because of the type of vehicle i have. this part is expensive and not easily obtainable. car is still showing transmission issue.
POWER TRAIN,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-12-16
- VIN: ZFBCFXAB2JP
- Components: POWER TRAIN,ENGINE
- Summary: I purchased my 2018 Fiat 500X POP used in April 2023 with only 22k miles. This past weekend 12/16 when I would first start my car up and get ready to leave in the mornings after having been parked for the night, my car would start up normal and I could proceed down the street. The minute I apply the break my car would lose power, stall out or shut off completely. I would press the start button, release the break, shift the gear to drive and proceed forward. I would go about 20 mph as I was driving in a residential area then my car would stall out and shut off again leaving stuck in the roadway. I repeated the start process to pull over to a safe location. I called the dealer and they said there are no recalls for this issue, however, I located one, but my VIN is not coming back as one of the affected vehicles. This is extremely dangerous as I live in an area with freeways as the only way to get to certain areas and cannot have this vehicle shutdown on freeways because it could result in a bad accident. I am looking for any assistance I can receive from this complaint. Fiat is not helpful, and the closest dealer is 2hrs from my residence.
POWER TRAIN,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-08-31
- VIN: ZFBCFXAB6JP
- Components: POWER TRAIN,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: There is an active recall for the power train control module for this car but it is not showing up in the NHTSA list. https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/rcl/2018/RCRIT-18V524-1313.pdf identifies the specific recall for the powertrain control module for the Fiat 500X https://www.nhtsa.gov/vehicle/2018/FIAT/500X/SUV/2WD#recalls lists the recalls done for the vehicle and it does not list the powertrain control module recall issue. We just bought this car from CARMAX and looks like this campaign recall fix was not listed on the site so they didn't address it and now the car wont work or run. If the recall was listed by the VIN they would have been required to fix before selling.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-11-15
- VIN: ZFBCFXCB7JP
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: I purchased my vehicle in 2020. I was not aware there was an open recall on this vehicle for an oil consumption issue. The dealer did not tell me and I received no notice from Fiat/Chrysler over the next two years. I began having a problem with the engine cutting out as I was driving down the road without any warning. There were no low oil or engine lights coming on to let me know there was a problem. My car was literally stopping on the road as I was driving! The potential for disaster was high! Fortunately we were able to get the car to the dealer without incident. We actually found out about the recall through our own investigation. The car was 3.5 quarts low and has since had two oil consumption tests that were supposed to "fix" the problem. It is now July 2023 and am still dealing with the car burning oil at a rate of about 1.5 quarts every 1500 miles. I have a 2018 Fiat 500X with less than 40,000 miles on the engine. Currently my dealership and I are trying to get Fiat/Chrysler to replace my engine . They have agreed that under the extended warranty afforded to me through the class action lawsuit filed against them over this that I am eligible for this to repair damage done. Unfortunately we are having issues getting authorization for an engine to be ordered..a lot of bureaucracy! The whole process has been infuriating..and I do think that my safety as a driver has been compromised. Thank you.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SERVICE BRAKES,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-10-21
- VIN: ZFBCFXCB3JP
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SERVICE BRAKES,ENGINE
- Summary: Car continuously throttled while driving on highway and road with no warnings. Vehicle electric components like radio and parking camera would shut off and not come back on without warning or while using camera. Car now gives warnings of vehicle temperature too high
ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-02-05
- VIN: ZFBCFXCBXJP
- Components: ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: 2021 Car failed RECALL OIL CONSUMPTION test twice at local dealership. Sept 2021 dealership said replaced a part. Oct 2021, when leaving a gas station car would not start, dashboard was flashing symbols and died, would not start, after 1/2 hr car bucked to house 6 blocks away. Yes car is available for inspection. Feb 2022 car died twice in middle of busy street with a 18wheeler almost ramming me in back, oil symbol briefly flashed then car died, couldn't even pull over to side, very frightening experience for at 73 yrs old. After 1/2 hr or so was able to return home, next day drove to dealership they said no oil in car, tapped it off, but I had just got an oil change and driven only 1798 miles. Problem has been confirmed and test done 3 times to qualify for motor replacement. OIL Warning Lamp does not stay on, only a brief flash. 3 Fail tests but has not been included in RECALL OIL CONSUMPTION.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-07-15
- VIN: ZFBCFYAB7JP
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
- Summary: I contact Chrysler Corp regarding the NHTSA recall notice and provided corporate with the recall notice number and was told that the recall was not applicable to my Fiat 500x. However corporate asked where the vehicle was being serviced. When The service was completed the statement from the dealership indicated that the NHTSA recall had been completed. Additionally I purchased the vehicle new in April 2018 and did not receive the Aug 2018 recall notice. While i was merging into the turning lane my car slowed itself down and then just stopped at the time my car was still able to run but i was not able to shift the gear and put it into neutral at the time the police officer showed up to help us move the car onto the side we had to push the car because we were still unable to move the gear shift then the tow driver arrived and after lots of difficulty was barely able to shift the gear but at that time was able to put the gear in neutral and even while in neutral my car would not move once we got to the dealership and let the dealership put oil into the car because we were told that could be the possible issue though we this was on Thursday and on Friday we received a call from the dealership explaining to us that it was not an oil issue but a mechanical one skip to Saturday we go to the dealership to meet with the tow so we can get the car to a fiat dealership but once on we were unable to turn the car off as everything was not functional on the car including the lock and unlock system i was not able to press down on the break it was lock and every warning within the fiat guide book flashed and i was unable to turn the car off this was the same result for others who had tried as well My engine locked in the merge lane
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-08-26
- VIN: ZFBCFYDB6JP
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: WE HAD SEVERAL INSTANCES WERE THE CAR BUCKS WHEN TRANSMISSION SHIFTS. WAS TAKEN TO DEALER AND UPDATES WERE MADE AND HAD NO ISSUES UNTIL AGAIN IT HAS STARTED AGAIN. NOT ALL THE TIME BUT EVERY ONCE IN A WHILE. AT SUNSET NOW BUT UNABLE TO DUPLICATE PROBLEM. THIS IS NOT THE FIRST ISSUE WE HAVE HAD. FIRST IT WAS THE FUEL TANK
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-03-18
- VIN: ZFBCFYCB2JP
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: FULL SPEED FORWARD COLLISION WARNING PLUS DOES NOT FUNCTION PROPERLY. WARNING AND BREAKS NEVER ACTIVATE EVEN IF 1 FOOT FROM CAR IN FRONT.*DT
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-03-17
- VIN: ZFBCFYAB5JP
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE
- Summary: AFTER 10,000 MILES THESE ISSUES STARTED TO OCCUR. WE WERE QUOTED THE ENGINE EXPERIENCED THESE ISSUES DUE TO THE ENGINE BURNING OIL. THE CAR SPUTTERS, IT IS SLUGGISH, WHILE DRIVING IT LOSES POWER AND IS SLOW TO PICK UP OR DOESN'T PICK UP AT ALL. WE SLOWED DOWN DRAMATICALLY WHILE DOING 60 ON THE HIGHWAY.. THIS COULD HAVE CAUSED US TO HAVE AN ACCIDENT. VERY DANGEROUS.
2018 Fiat 500x recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 2018 Fiat 500x.
- Manufacturer: Chrysler (FCA US LLC)
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING:FRONT UNDERHOOD
- Summary: Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2018 Jeep Renegade, Compass and Grand Cherokee, RAM 1500 and Promaster, Fiat 500x, Dodge Journey, Challenger, Charger and Durango and Chrysler 300x vehicles, 2017-2018 Jeep Wrangler, Dodge Grand Caravan and Chrysler Town and Country vehicles and 2018-2019 Jeep Cherokee and 2018 Chrysler Pacifica and Pacifica Hybrid vehicles. The powertrain control module may be equipped with a voltage regulator chip in the circuit board that may fail, causing a stall or a no start condition.
- Consequence: A vehicle stall can increase the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will replace the powertrain control module, free of charge. The recall began October 2, 2018. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is U87.
Negative 2018 Fiat 500x car reviews
Positive 2018 Fiat 500x car reviews
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The 500x wasn't my first choice, but after carefully reading all the reviews about all the cars, I was torn between the Subaru Crosstrek and the 500x. It wasn't until I went for a test drive that I was convinced. Sitting inside the 500x felt solid, comfortable, and well thought out, while sitting inside the Crosstrek felt cheap and unrefined. The interior design of the 500x is superior to that of the Crosstrek. Although the drivability of the Subaru Crosstrek admittedly felt better, the 500x is still a great car to drive. The gear system on the Subaru was smoother and lighter, and the suspension felt supple. The 500x I test drove was a bit stiff, and the steering felt tight, but I didn't hear the exaggerated loud cabin everyone complained about, nor did I sense the jerky transmission. Perhaps it had been reprogrammed already. I purchased the car in Sep. 2016 and those issues have been addressed. My previous cars have been a 1998 VW Jetta, 2003 Audi A4, 2006 Honda Element, and most recently the 2013 Fiat 500e. I chose the 500x due to the extra incentive for being a return Fiat customer, plus the rebate, plus the dealer discount for end-of-year sale. The savings added up and it became a no-brainer to go with the 500x. Although the reviews had been so bad, I really felt I made a compromise for the money saved. But so far, things have been great and all the claims had been unfounded. I find the handling of the 500x to be amazing. After I drop the kids off at school, I take a longer drive through the hills of Los Gatos because the car is so fun to drive. I have also driven up steep hills and pushed the limits around corners and have yet to feel out of control. The acceleration is average, not as responsive as the electric 500e or the Audi 1.8T, but still good. I suppose that's comparing apples to oranges. I sat in the back of both Crosstrek and 500x, and they were both pretty snug with just enough leg room for somebody 5'8Long story short, I don't feel like I compromised just to get a better price. If the prices were the same for the Crosstrek and the 500x, I would still choose the 500x. It has more personality and is much nicer to look at. We'll have to see how reliable it is in the long term, but I'm comforted by the 48k/5 year bumper to bumper warranty.
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We've only had our 500X AWD for a month, but we're already impressed with how well it handles the curves in the mountains of NC/TN. The AWD system also seems to handle the rain better than our FWD Corolla. Some reviews mention issues with shifting, but we found that switching to 'sport' mode provides more responsive shifting when needed. The front seats aren't the most comfortable, but for a compact SUV, they're manageable. Our only real complaint is with the factory navigation system - we've had trouble finding an update for it online. While Google Maps is up to date, we'd prefer to use the factory hands-free system. We're looking forward to seeing how the AWD holds up this fall and winter.
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I've owned my 500X Lounge for 7 years and have just over 58,000 miles, and I couldn't be happier! I absolutely love driving this car! The car has been incredibly reliable, and the only repair I needed was to replace the radiator, which was covered under my extended warranty. FIAT has been excellent about addressing any issues with a few recalls over the years. One of the few complaints I had about the car was that there was excessive vibration at idle, so FIAT issued a TSB where the motor mounts could be replaced at no cost. I went to my dealership, Bill Luke FIAT, and they replaced it without question. Since then, the car feels like a completely different vehicle. The car starts smoother, and all the vibration is gone. Other than that, the only low points are that fuel economy is just okay, while the car is by no means fast, and the transmission is slow to downshift. Cargo space is limited with its sloped back design, and the ride can get a little bouncy. However, the high points are much more. The car drives very nicely and has a great feel to it. You feel well connected to the car and to the road. The car is smooth, quiet, and handles well, but all that improved significantly more when I replaced my factory Nexen tires with Pirelli Cinturato P7s. The seats are really comfortable and help alleviate my back pain. The driving position is just right. The car has a lot of features, and they all work well, and the materials and build quality have exceeded my expectations. My dealer, Bill Luke FIAT, has been fantastic! I would strongly encourage anyone to buy one of these.
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We've owned our FIAT European crossover for almost 3 years and have had no major problems. We've been to several dealerships in Dallas due to closures and openings, but they've all done a great job with scheduled maintenance and taking care of our car's needs. I highly recommend the door sill covers and spare tire kit upgrades. Thanks, FIAT! We love our car. As we enter the 4th year of ownership, we've only had minor issues, such as a recall notice for the radiator fan, which the dealership took care of quickly. Everything else has held up well, and the car still looks new and fresh. The only thing we'll need to address soon is getting new tires.
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We are thrilled with the great lease offer we received on the 500X and are so glad we took advantage of it. We've taken a couple of highway trips and done a lot of downtown driving, and we're really happy with the car so far. The only issue we have is with the way the trim levels are structured. However, we're very satisfied with the nice interior, which is more subtle and stylish than its Jeep counterpart, the ease of driving, and the driving position in the vehicle.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2018 Fiat 500x problems:
2018 FIAT 500X Problems | Kelley Blue Book
How reliable is the 2018 FIAT 500X? See the most common repairs performed and learn if your vehicle is at risk for major repairs in the next 12 months.
Unreliable Vehicles To Avoid: Fiat 500X | Endurance Warranty
Oct 30, 2023 ... 7 Common Issues Raised by Fiat 500X Owners · 1. Engine Problems · 2. Electrical Problems · 3. Transmission Problems · 4. Exterior Accessory Problems.
Q&A: 2018 Fiat 500X Battery & Problems - Certified Mechanic Near Me
Mar 5, 2022 ... Lights, radio, everything worked fine. Never a problem before. Mechanic's Assistant: What's the model of your 2018 Fiat? 500x. Mechanic's ...
The good/bad/ugly from 500x owners - help! : r/Fiat
May 8, 2019 ... Fiats are not well made cars. They have lots of electrical problems (see other comment), bad fit and finish issues, and just aren't put together ...
Other years of Fiat 500x
Are you having problems with your 2018 Fiat 500x?
Maximillian Raynor 2025-02-10
I bought my Fiat 500X Trek a few weeks ago and unfortunately experienced a breakdown during my drive home from the dealer. It shut off at 40 mph and was difficult to start afterwards. I followed my salesperson's advice and took it to the service department the next day, with the engine light on for the entire trip. The service tech explained that the computer was reading fault codes and self-correcting as it learns. Although this conclusion made me uneasy, I trusted my service manager's advice and left with instructions to return if any further problems arose. Later that day, I stopped for a soda and when I attempted to restart my vehicle, it wouldn't start. After several attempts, I called the service department back to report my problem, but was only able to leave a message. After waiting 20 minutes for their call back, I was able to start the motor successfully, but the engine light remained on and the car seemed to be running out of tune with little power. The service department finally returned my call and instructed me to return the vehicle again, which I did the very next day and was awarded a rental car. After about 8 days, I was advised that my Fiat had a new onboard body computer module installed and that it was fine and ready for pick up. I finally made my first successful trip home with this car. However, the very next day, the vehicle became difficult to start and remained in 3rd gear at all times, with the engine light on. So, again, I called the service department and was advised to have the vehicle towed, which I did with the assistance of the Fiat Roadside Assistance and a local towing service, and was awarded another rental vehicle. After several days, I was advised that there was a loose/corroded ground wire on the side of my transmission, which was repaired, and my vehicle was ready for pick up.I had a few issues with my vehicle in the past, but thankfully everything has been resolved. Although there were some unexpected shutdowns while driving, the service department was able to fix the problem. The staff were very helpful and did their best to assist me during the process. I'm happy to say that my new Fiat has been running smoothly for a couple of years now, with only minor issues such as the trim coming off. Overall, I'm satisfied with my experience and would recommend this line of cars to others.Leaving a very sticky substance underneath that seems to get on everything can be very annoying and make things look ugly. However, it starts and goes. I wouldn't purchase another one though. Good luck!
Ethel Veum 2025-01-15
I named my Fiat 500x Bambino and it's been a great drive! The acceleration, especially in sport mode, is awesome and the shifting is smooth. However, during the summers, the a/c vents are few and the circulation is poor, making it a bit uncomfortable. Unfortunately, I've had some issues with my car breaking down three times in the last three years, which is a shame. I'm currently searching for a new vehicle. It's important to be careful when driving in heavy rains as it may cause some issues. Overall, I've had a good experience with my Fiat 500x, but it's time for me to move on to something new.
Issac Lockman 2024-06-24
I have been asked to update my review. While I still hold the same opinion that the car has stalled out a couple of times after warming up and is very sluggish, I would like to add that the gas mileage is okay but not as good as my Chevrolet HHR. Therefore, I still do not recommend this car to anyone. Additionally, I noticed that my girlfriend was uncomfortable during the ride and I found myself apologizing for the ride of the car.
Wallace Watsica 2024-06-06
Firstly, I am sorry to hear about the issues you have experienced with your car. It sounds like you have had a difficult time with it. From what you have described, it seems like there have been a few recalls on the car since you purchased it. I can understand how frustrating this must be for you, especially with the safety concerns you have mentioned. Additionally, it is unfortunate that the tires blew out after only four months and that there was no spare in the car. I can imagine how inconvenient that must have been for you. Regarding the oil leak, it is concerning that the levels were low after a recent oil change. I hope that the dealership can determine the cause of this issue and resolve it for you. It is also unfortunate that you have had trouble with the keyless remote and the gas mileage has not met your expectations. I hope that Fiat can address these issues and provide a satisfactory resolution for you. Thank you for bringing these concerns to our attention, and we will do our best to assist you in resolving these issues.
Imani Brekke 2024-05-25
This car has unfortunately experienced some issues, and despite multiple visits to the dealership for service, the problem has not yet been resolved. It is frustrating that FCA has not taken action to address these known issues.