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2019 Fiat 500 Report

Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Updated May 30, 2026·Daniel Wilson

Overall Score

6.9/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • Distinctive retro styling remains a strong visual asset.
  • Compact size and maneuverability are ideal for city environments.
  • Fuel economy is competitive for its class, averaging 27 MPG combined.
  • Two recalls were issued: one for the manual transmission shifter shaft and another for the TPMS.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2019 Fiat 500

The 2019 Fiat 500 stands out with its retro-inspired design and compact footprint, making it an appealing choice for urban driving. Its 1.4-liter four-cylinder engine, paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission, delivers adequate power for city commutes. Fuel economy is respectable, with a combined EPA rating of 27 MPG. While it boasts a nimble chassis, its safety ratings are mixed, with 4-star ratings in frontal and rollover tests but an overall 'Not Rated' status. Owner complaints are notably absent in NHTSA data, but two recalls warrant attention: one for the manual transmission shifter assembly and another for the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS).

Critical Failure Risk

A recall addressed a potential breakage of the manual transmission floor shift assembly shaft due to improper manufacturing. This can lead to loss of gear selection.

Early detection can help you avoid a $300-$600 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls2
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

0

No primary complaint themes found.

Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency
Combined
27
MPG
City
24
MPG
Highway
32
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

8.8/ 10

Practicality

4.3/ 10

The score is mainly limited by limited seating.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Drivers seeking a stylish, compact car for urban commuting.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Families needing significant passenger or cargo space.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2019 Fiat 500 Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2019 Fiat 500.

  • Recall TimelineOfficial safety notices
  • Owner ComplaintsReal driver reports
  • Failure AnalysisKnown part defects
Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Premium
Seating Capacity
4
Transmission
Electronic Continuously Variable (e-CVT)
Drivetrain
FWD/Front-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Hatchback
EPA Combined MPG
27

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Most Common Issues

1. Manual Transmission Shifter Assembly Shaft Breakage

Most reported

Usage data observed

2. Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) Malfunction

Usage data observed

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Brake System Inspection

Est. shop cost: $100 - $200

5,000 mi

Unlock the full maintenance guide for every scheduled service interval and cost forecast.

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist
Complete maintenance schedule (4 service intervals)
Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context
Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it
Full specs and trim-level context
2 recall campaign details & remedy notes
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2019 Fiat 500 reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2019 Fiat 500 is 8.8/10. Reliability score is 8.8/10. NHTSA recalls: 2. Owner complaints: 0.

How practical is the 2019 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 2019 Fiat 500?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2019 Fiat 500 is 6.9/10. Overall score is 6.9/10 (Good). Confidence 55%. Maintenance 9.2/10. Practicality 4.3/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2019 Fiat 500?▾

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Brake System Inspection at 5,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $200 - $400. Repair prediction highlight: Manual Transmission Shifter Assembly (typical at 50,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $300 • Max: $600).

What is the MSRP range for the 2019 Fiat 500?▾

Base MSRP is $21,990.

What engine is in the 2019 Fiat 500?▾

Engine specs list 4 • 1.4.

What transmission does the 2019 Fiat 500 use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2019 Fiat 500, transmission is Electronic Continuously Variable (e-CVT). The paired drivetrain is FWD/Front-Wheel Drive.

Does the 2019 500 require Premium gas?▾

Manufacturer fuel recommendation: Premium.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2019 Fiat 500?▾

EPA combined estimate is 27 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2019 Fiat 500?▾

8 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.

How many people fit in a 2019 Fiat 500?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2019 Fiat 500, seating capacity is 4.

What body style is the 2019 Fiat 500?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2019 Fiat 500, body style is hatchback.

What drivetrain does the 2019 Fiat 500 use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2019 Fiat 500, drivetrain is FWD/Front-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Electronic Continuously Variable (e-CVT).

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2019 Fiat 500?▾

NHTSA ratings: Frontal 4/5 • Rollover 4/5.

Are there open safety recalls on the 2019 Fiat 500?▾

This model year has 2 official safety campaigns listed.

Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2019 Fiat 500?▾

Alternatives listed in this guide: 2019 MINI Cooper Convertible and 2019 Honda Fit.

Start Here

Maintenance guide

Costs + intervals

Recall report

Campaigns + remedy notes

Owner complaints

Issue volume + categories

In this guide

  1. 01Overview
  2. 02Who This Car Is For
  3. 03Reliability & Problems
  4. 04Vehicle Specs
  5. 05Unlock Full Report
  6. 06FAQ

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