2018 Fiat 500 Report
Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.
Overall Score
Key Takeaways
- The service brakes are a primary concern, with reports of diving under aggressive braking that dealers have struggled to resolve.
- Two recalls were issued, one for the transmission shift lever and another for the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS). Confirm these are addressed.
- Top complaint areas include seats, service brakes, and wheel lug nuts, suggesting potential wear or design issues.
- Despite a public reliability score of 8.4, the LLM assessment is 'Average' due to limited data and specific component concerns.
2018 Fiat 500
Critical Failure Risk
Reports indicate the vehicle may dive to the right under aggressive braking. This issue has been difficult for dealers to replicate and resolve, suggesting a potential systemic calibration or design concern.
Early detection can help you avoid a $300-$800 repair.
Safety & Bulletins
Owner Complaints
Performance & Efficiency
Reliability
Practicality
The score is mainly limited by limited seating.
Who This Car Is For
Best for
Drivers seeking a stylish, compact car primarily for urban commuting.
+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report
Avoid if
Drivers who require maximum reliability and minimal unscheduled repairs.
+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report
2018 Fiat 500 Reliability Analysis
Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2018 Fiat 500.
Vehicle Specs
- Fuel Type
- Premium
- Seating Capacity
- 4
- Transmission
- Automatic
- Drivetrain
- Front-Wheel Drive
- Body Style
- Hatchback
- EPA Combined MPG
- 27
CarFocal account required
See the full 2018 Fiat 500 buyer report before you decide
Most Common Issues
1. Seats
Most reportedUsage: 1 reports
2. Braking System
Usage: 1 reports
First Service Interval
- Oil Change and Filter Replacement (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Inspect Brakes
Est. shop cost: $100 - $200
Unlock the full maintenance guide for every scheduled service interval and cost forecast.
Free • Takes 20 seconds • Saves Thousands $
Already have an account? Log in
FAQ
Is the 2018 Fiat 500 reliable?
The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2018 Fiat 500 is 8.7/10. Reliability score is 8.7/10. NHTSA recalls: 2. Owner complaints: 5.
How practical is the 2018 Fiat 500 for daily use?
Practicality score is 4.3/10. The score is mainly limited by limited seating. EPA combined economy is 27 MPG. Seating capacity is 4.
What is the overall score for the 2018 Fiat 500?
The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2018 Fiat 500 is 6.9/10. Overall score is 6.9/10 (Good). Confidence 55%. Maintenance 8.6/10. Practicality 4.3/10.
What does it cost to own and maintain a 2018 Fiat 500?
Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change and Filter Replacement (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Inspect Brakes at 5,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $400 - $700. Repair prediction highlight: Service Brakes (typical at 50,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $300 • Max: $800).
What is the MSRP range for the 2018 Fiat 500?
Base MSRP is $20,495.
What engine is in the 2018 Fiat 500?
Engine specs list 4 • 1.4.
What transmission does the 2018 Fiat 500 use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Fiat 500, transmission is Automatic. The paired drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive.
Does the 2018 500 require Premium gas?
Manufacturer fuel recommendation: Premium.
What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2018 Fiat 500?
EPA combined estimate is 27 MPG.
What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2018 Fiat 500?
3 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Rear Camera.
How many people fit in a 2018 Fiat 500?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Fiat 500, seating capacity is 4.
What body style is the 2018 Fiat 500?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Fiat 500, body style is hatchback.
What drivetrain does the 2018 Fiat 500 use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Fiat 500, drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic.
What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2018 Fiat 500?
NHTSA ratings: Frontal 4/5 • Rollover 4/5.
What are the most common seats problems on the 2018 Fiat 500?
Top complaint category: seats (1 reports, 20% of complaints).
Are there open safety recalls on the 2018 Fiat 500?
This model year has 2 official safety campaigns listed.
Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2018 Fiat 500?
Alternatives listed in this guide: 2018 MINI Cooper Convertible and 2018 Honda Fit.