2012 Fiat 500 Report
Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.
Overall Score
Key Takeaways
- The power train is the most frequent source of owner complaints, with clutch and transmission issues leading to potential loss of motive power.
- Electrical system problems are also common, ranging from minor annoyances to more serious concerns.
- Despite its small size, the 500 achieves respectable fuel economy, rated at 29 MPG combined.
- Safety ratings are mixed, with 4 stars for frontal and rollover impacts but 3 stars for side impacts.
2012 Fiat 500
Critical Failure Risk
Frequent complaints involve clutch issues such as diaphragm spring fracture, leading to difficulty shifting or complete loss of motive power. Transmission problems, including shifting difficulties and internal failures, are also reported. These issues can occur at relatively low mileage.
Early detection can help you avoid a $800-$1,500 repair.
Safety & Bulletins
Owner Complaints
Performance & Efficiency
Reliability
Practicality
The score is mainly limited by small boot, limited door access, and limited seating.
Who This Car Is For
Best for
Enthusiasts seeking a stylish, compact city car with a unique personality.
+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report
Avoid if
Drivers who demand consistent, worry-free daily transportation.
+3 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report
2012 Fiat 500 Reliability Analysis
Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2012 Fiat 500.
Vehicle Specs
- Fuel Type
- Premium
- Seating Capacity
- 4
- Transmission
- Automatic 6-spd
- Drivetrain
- Front-Wheel Drive
- Body Style
- Hatchback
- EPA Combined MPG
- 29
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Most Common Issues
1. Powertrain
Most reportedUsage: 192 reports
2. Electrical System
Usage: 55 reports
First Service Interval
- Oil Change and Filter Replacement (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Brake System Inspection - Inspect Clutch System
Est. shop cost: $100 - $200
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FAQ
Is the 2012 Fiat 500 reliable?
The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2012 Fiat 500 is 3.9/10. Reliability score is 3.9/10. NHTSA recalls: 5. Owner complaints: 536.
How practical is the 2012 Fiat 500 for daily use?
Practicality score is 3.7/10. The score is mainly limited by small boot, limited door access, and limited seating. EPA combined economy is 29 MPG. Seating capacity is 4. 2 passenger doors are listed. Boot capacity is 269 litres.
What is the overall score for the 2012 Fiat 500?
The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2012 Fiat 500 is 5.6/10. Overall score is 5.6/10 (Mixed). Confidence 82%. Maintenance 8.3/10. Practicality 3.7/10.
What does it cost to own and maintain a 2012 Fiat 500?
Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change and Filter Replacement (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Brake System Inspection - Inspect Clutch System at 5,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $400 - $700. Repair prediction highlight: Clutch Assembly (typical at 75,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $800 • Max: $1,500).
What engine is in the 2012 Fiat 500?
Engine specs list 4 • 1.4.
What transmission does the 2012 Fiat 500 use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2012 Fiat 500, transmission is Automatic 6-spd. The paired drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive.
Does the 2012 500 require Premium gas?
Manufacturer fuel recommendation: Premium.
What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2012 Fiat 500?
EPA combined estimate is 29 MPG.
What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2012 Fiat 500?
1 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Tire Pressure Monitoring System.
How many people fit in a 2012 Fiat 500?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2012 Fiat 500, seating capacity is 4.
What body style is the 2012 Fiat 500?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2012 Fiat 500, body style is hatchback.
What drivetrain does the 2012 Fiat 500 use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2012 Fiat 500, drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic 6-spd.
What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2012 Fiat 500?
NHTSA ratings: Overall 3/5 • Frontal 4/5 • Side 3/5 • Rollover 4/5.
What are the most common power train problems on the 2012 Fiat 500?
Top complaint category: power train (192 reports, 35.8% of complaints).
Are there open safety recalls on the 2012 Fiat 500?
This model year has 5 official safety campaigns listed.
Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2012 Fiat 500?
Alternatives listed in this guide: 2012 MINI Cooper Coupe and 2012 Volkswagen Beetle.