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2016 Fiat 500L Report

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

Updated May 30, 2026·Ryan Davis

Overall Score

6.9/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • The primary concern for the 2016 Fiat 500L is its POWER TRAIN, with specific complaints about the automatic transmission's shifting behavior and unresolved check engine lights.
  • While the vehicle has zero recalls, the consistent nature of the powertrain complaints suggests potential systemic issues that could lead to significant repair costs.
  • NHTSA has not provided overall safety ratings for the 2016 Fiat 500L, making it difficult to assess its crashworthiness.
  • Fuel economy data for the 2016 Fiat 500L is unavailable, making it challenging to estimate running costs.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2016 Fiat 500L

The 2016 Fiat 500L offers a distinctive Italian flair in a compact package. For the used car shopper, its appeal lies in its unique styling and practicality. However, potential buyers must be aware of reported issues. The vehicle has logged two complaints, both centering on the POWER TRAIN. These reports detail problems with the automatic transmission failing to shift out of first gear, particularly on initial drives, and a recurring check engine light that has proven costly to resolve. While there are no recalls, these complaint patterns warrant careful consideration and a detailed pre-purchase inspection.

Critical Failure Risk

Complaints indicate the automatic transmission may fail to shift out of first gear, particularly on initial drives. This can persist for several blocks, hindering acceleration and safe merging.

Early detection can help you avoid a $500-$1,500 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls0
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

2
Power Train2
Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

8.9/ 10

Practicality

6.6/ 10
Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Drivers seeking a stylish and practical compact car with a distinctive European design.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Drivers prioritizing long-term, worry-free reliability and low maintenance costs.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2016 Fiat 500L Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2016 Fiat 500L.

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

Vehicle Specs

Seating Capacity
5
Body Style
Suv

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Unlock the complete checklist, maintenance outlook, and buyer verdict in one place.

Most Common Issues

1. Powertrain

Most reported

Usage: 2 reports

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 - Inspect Brakes

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
Full safety recall details
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2016 Fiat 500L reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2016 Fiat 500L is 8.9/10. Reliability score is 8.9/10. NHTSA recalls: 0. Owner complaints: 2.

How practical is the 2016 Fiat 500L for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 6.6/10. Seating capacity is 5. 4 passenger doors are listed. Boot capacity is 412 litres.

What is the overall score for the 2016 Fiat 500L?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2016 Fiat 500L is 6.9/10. Overall score is 6.9/10 (Good). Confidence 41%. Maintenance 8.0/10. Practicality 6.6/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2016 Fiat 500L?▾

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Inspect Brakes at 5,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $500 - $1,000. Repair prediction highlight: Transmission Control Module (typical at 75,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $600 • Max: $1,200).

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2016 Fiat 500L?▾

1 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Tire Pressure Monitoring System.

How many people fit in a 2016 Fiat 500L?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2016 Fiat 500L, seating capacity is 5.

What body style is the 2016 Fiat 500L?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2016 Fiat 500L, body style is suv.

What are the most common power train problems on the 2016 Fiat 500L?▾

Top complaint category: power train (2 reports, 100% of complaints).

Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2016 Fiat 500L?▾

Alternative listed in this guide: 2016 Volkswagen Golf SportWagen.

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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