The Fiat 500 is one of the most popular Fiat models on the market. This A-Segment car comes with various engine options, but the 500 TwinAir engine is one of the most outstanding units. Nonetheless, what are the problems with the Fiat 500 TwinAir model?
Common problems with the Fiat 500 TwinAir model are oil leakage, shaking when idle, trouble starting and rapidly wearing suspension. Additional issues include loss of power, electrical problems, excessive oil consumption, and rusty sub frames.
What are the problems with the Fiat 500 TwinAir?
Oil leakage
A common issue with this car is oil leakage. Many users have reported having oil leakage. This is usually caused by a cracked or damaged timing cover. After being in use for several years, the timing cover can crack or wear out because of dirt, heat, or even grime. So, when it does crack, it reduces the tightness of the timing cover and may lead to oil flowing from the engine.
To fix this problem, you will have to replace the bad or damaged timing cover.
Shaking when idle
Another common issue that Fiat 500 TwinAir users should be ready to deal with is the car shaking when idle. Besides, other people have reported their car stalling abruptly when driving and some have stated that the engine lurches forward.
If you’re having these issues, you should have the mechanic check your EGR valve as it may be clogged. Furthermore, you should check the battery as a weak battery can also cause the above symptoms.
Trouble starting
As expected, Fiat 500 TwinAir also comes with starting problems. The main cause of this problem is a weak battery. So, this is the first part that you should check as these cars feature weak batteries. If that’s the case, you will have to replace the weak battery with a quality and powerful one. The next step is to check the starter and alternator. If these parts are damaged, replace them.
Rapidly wearing suspension
Suspension problems are very rampant in compact city cars like the Fiat 500 TwinAir model. This is because the car’s strut mounts become worn out so quickly. So, to avoid having this issue, you should replace the front strut top mount bearing as recommended by the manufacturer.
Signs of worn-out strut mounts are unusual tire wear, instability at high speeds, leaking fluid on the exterior of struts, and tires bouncing excessively.
Loss of power
Users of the Fiat 500 TwinAir model should also be ready to deal with the loss of power. This is a common problem with Fiat 500 models. However, in this particular model, the problem is normally caused by a wastegate with a damaged pin. Apart from having starting problems, this issue can also lead to poor fuel economy and lack of boost.
To fix this problem, the owner will have to replace the damaged or broken wastegate pin.
Electrical problems
Fit 500 is known to have electrical issues. Some of the electrical problems that you should expect to experience are warning messages on the dashboard, intermittent taillights and other exterior lightings, and many other electrical issues. To fix this issue, you will have to examine your car’s battery, fuse, alternator, and wiring.
Besides, there have been many reports about broken wiring under the steering column. Take your car to a professional mechanic to pinpoint the real issue.
Rusty sub-frames
Another common problem that Fiat 500 TwinAir owners should be ready to deal with is rusty subframes. So, if you’re in the market for a used Fiat 500 TwinAir model, you should inspect the frames carefully.
The good news is that you can get rid of rust by using sandpaper, a grinder, or a wire brush to get rid of the rust on the frames.
Excessive oil consumption
If you decide to own a Fiat 500 TwinAir model, you should be ready to spend more on oil. This is because this model uses more oil than usual. Therefore, you will need to make regular oil changes if your car is to operate optimally and smoothly. Failure to do so will witness reduced fuel efficiency, loud clunking, and other engine issues.
FAQ
Is Fiat 500 a good car?
Fiat 500 is both a good and bad car. It is a good car if you’re looking for a sleek and compact city car for a daily driver. On the other hand, it lacks comfort, performance, and speed. Besides, it is quite costly to maintain compared to most of its rivals.
How fast is the Fiat 500 TwinAir?
Fitted with a 0.9 TwinAir inline-two Turbo engine, this model delivers up to 104 hp and 107 lb-ft of torque. Furthermore, it has a top speed of up to 117 mph and it can accelerate from 0 to 62 mph in just 10 seconds.
On the contrary, some engines like the 1.4 Abarth are more powerful and faster. The 1.4 Abarth has a top speed of 135 mph and it can accelerate from 0 to 62 in 7.3 seconds.
What is the most reliable Fiat 500 model year?
Fiat 500 has been in production from 1957 to 1975 and from 2007 to date. This means that they have had various model years that have provided users with different experiences. However, if you’re looking for a reliable model year, 2018 and 2019 are the best model years to consider. Unlike other years, these two models registered the fewest problems.
How efficient is the Fiat 500 TwinAir model?
The Fiat 500 TwinAir is not the most efficient car in its class, but it is pretty efficient. It comes with an outstanding fuel-efficiency rating of 48 mpg to 58 mpg in the city, and 64 mpg and 76 mpg on the highway. With such a rating, users will end up saving a lot in terms of expenditure on fuel.
Conclusion
Now that you know some of the issues that the Fiat 500 TwinAir model faces, taking care of this car shouldn’t be a problem. Besides, this car is affordable, compact, practical, and with good looks. Even though it is not very efficient, it is also not very costly to maintain. With proper care and maintenance, this car will serve the user for years.