The Fiat 500L Living is a bigger version of the Fiat 500L. It is a sleek, spacious, efficient, and practical station wagon. However, it also has some issues that buyers and owners ought to know about. But what are the common problems with Fiat 500 Living?
Some of the common problems with the Fiat 500L Living are engine problems, faulty power windows, clogged particulate filters, oil warning lights, steering problems, and a multifunctioning infotainment system. Note that not every Fiat 500L Living comes with these issues as some problems can be found in particular model years.
What are the common problems with Fiat 500L Living?
Engine issues
Like most Fiat 500 models, the Fiat 500L Living also experiences engine problems. The common engine problem that users have reported is the engine turning off. This can be caused by a faulty alternator or a bad crankshaft sensor.
To fix this issue, you will have the mechanic inspect and replace the faulty part. Besides, the problem should be handled in time to avoid serious issues from developing.
Clogged particulate filter
This issue is only common to Fiat 500L Living models with a diesel engine. The particulate filters help to make the Fiat 500L Living more eco-friendly. Nonetheless, these particulate filters are needed to self-clean, which they can only do at low speeds. If they don’t self-clean up properly, they can become clogged and cause serious issues.
If the particulate filters are clogged, they may have to be replaced and they are quite expensive to acquire. But if the clogged particulate filter is not badly damaged, it can be unclogged to enable it to operate normally.
Steering problems
This is another common issue that Fiat 500 model owners complain about. Several users of the Fiat 500L Living have also complained about this problem. Most of them have stated that their car losses steering power as they reverse or park. In most cases, this issue is initiated by an issue with the power steering motor.
To fix this issue, you will have to replace the power steering motor. Note that if your car is under warranty, Fiat will fix this issue for free as it’s an electrical system fault.
Multifunctioning infotainment system
Some users have also reported their infotainment system having faults. This can cause the audio and video not to work properly. It may also prevent the car’s Bluetooth and your phone to pair. Some of the probable causes are a wiring problem, a blown car fuse, blown valves, or a lack of power to operate the system.
Visit a professional mechanic to test and determine which part is causing the infotainment system to malfunction.
Faulty power windows
The power windows on the Fiat 500L Living are vital as they protect the car from the elements. However, after some time of use, the power windows can become faulty. This can be due to a bad window motor, a wiring problem, a faulty switch, or a blown fuse.
If you’re having trouble opening or closing your power windows, have the issue detected and replaced by a professional mechanic.
Oil warning light
The oil warning light is very common on Fiat 500 models. So, if you note that your Fiat 500L Living has its oil warning light on, you shouldn’t panic. Instead, you should take your car to a professional mechanic for proper inspection. There is a high chance that the ECU has a problem.
To resolve this problem, ensure the ECU is reprogrammed and the oil and oil filter is also changed. Note that changing your car’s oil and oil filter should be done as recommended by the manufacturer to avoid many issues.
FAQ
Is the Fiat 500L Living a reliable car?
Yes, the Fiat 500L Living is a pretty reliable car. Thanks to the sturdy and dependable engines that the manufacturer offers. Additionally, the Fiat 500L Living registers fewer issues than most of its rivals. Besides, most reliability agencies give it a score of 3.5 out of 5.0, which is above average reliability.
How long does the Fiat 500L Living last?
The Fiat 500L Living is a reliable car with a reliable engine. If well-maintained, the Fiat 500L Living can last for more than 200k miles. Nonetheless, good driving habits have to be exercised if the Fiat 500L Living is to last for more than 13 years. Besides, users have to adhere to Fiat’s recommended maintenance service if their car is to last that long.
Is it expensive to maintain the Fiat 500L Living?
Yes, maintaining the Fiat 500L Living is slightly costlier than most Fiat models. While the average cost of maintaining Fiats is around $600, it will cost the Fiat 500L Living owner around $640 to maintain it. This is $4 more than the average cost of maintaining a Fiat.
After how many miles does the Fiat 500L Living start having issues?
While the Fiat 500L Living is more reliable than the Fiat 500L, it still develops problems as early as 50,000 miles. As expected, users will have to check their car’s spark plugs and ignition coils as recommended by the manufacturer. These two parts are the first to fail and can limit the car’s performance if they’re not replaced in time.
Are Fiat engines reliable?
Yes, Fiat engines are considerably reliable compared to most of their competitors. Fiat engines are considered the seventh best after Honda, Toyota, Mercedes-Benz, Volvo, Jaguar, and Lexus. Fiat engines are better and more reliable than Nissan, Ford, and Range Rover.
Therefore, if you’re looking for an affordable car with a reliable engine, Fiat is one of the best car brands to consider. It is estimated that 1 in every 85 Fiat owners have had engine problems. This is better than Nissan, where 1 in every 76 owners have had engine issues, but lower than Honda, where 1 in every 344 owners have had engine problems.
Conclusion
Despite having several issues, the Fiat 500L Living is still a nice car. This compact station wagon is comfortable, fuel-efficient, spacious, reliable, and affordable. Most of the problems that we’ve highlighted can be avoided through proper care and maintenance.
If well-maintained, this car will last for more than 13 years. It is also practical, making it a perfect car for large families.