IsItAGoodCar
Reliability Guide

Common Problems with the
2017 Abarth 500 / 595 / 695 (Type 312)

The Abarth 595 received a facelift with revised styling, updated infotainment, and a range of special editions. The 1.4 T-Jet engine was now producing up to 180bhp in standard trim. These later cars are more refined and reliable, with improved interior quality and better sound insulation.

What changed for 2017

  • •Revised front bumper and headlight design
  • •Updated infotainment system with Apple CarPlay/Android Auto
  • •Range restructured with standard, Turismo, Competizione, and Esseesse trims

Common MOT watch-outs

  • !Tyre wear on rear axle from aggressive driving
  • !Battery drain from infotainment system
  • !Front splitter and undertray damage from speed bumps
4
Known Issues
1
Serious
1
Moderate
2
Minor

All Known Issues

MTA Gearbox Actuator Failure

SeriousGearbox & Transmission

The robotised manual gearbox (MTA) uses an electro-hydraulic actuator that can leak or fail, leading to missed shifts or being stuck in gear.

Est. Repair Cost: £800–£2,000
Warning Signs:

"Gearbox unavailable" message, Refusal to select Reverse, Drops into Neutral

What to Inspect:
  • Ensure the pump primes when opening the door
  • Check for smooth engagement in traffic
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Rear Axle Bush Wear

ModerateSuspension & Chassis

The rubber bushes in the rear twist-beam axle perish, leading to MOT failure and poor handling.

Est. Repair Cost: £150–£400
Warning Signs:

Clonking from the rear over bumps, Vague handling, Uneven rear tyre wear

What to Inspect:
  • Check MOT history for "Rear axle pin/bush" advisories
  • Visually inspect bushes for tearing
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Seized Record Monza Exhaust Valve

MinorExhaust & Emissions

The spring-loaded flap in the Record Monza exhaust system often seizes due to its exposed position and heat cycles.

Est. Repair Cost: £0–£150
Warning Signs:

Exhaust note doesn't change, Valve stuck open (loud) or closed (quiet), Rattling from the rear

What to Inspect:
  • Try to move the valve manually with a pair of pliers (when cold)
  • Listen for a change in tone at 3,000 RPM
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Door Handle Hinge Failure

MinorBodywork & Rust

The outer door handle hinge is made of a weak alloy that snaps, making the door difficult to open from the outside.

Est. Repair Cost: £60–£120
Warning Signs:

Door handle feels loose, Handle flops down, Cannot open door from outside

What to Inspect:
  • Pull the front edge of the door handle to check for play
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Buying Tips for 2017 Abarth 500 / 595 / 695 (Type 312)

  • The 2017+ facelift models have the best infotainment and interior quality
  • Check if Apple CarPlay/Android Auto is fitted — it was optional on earlier 2017 cars
  • Verify the battery condition as the new electronics draw more power when parked
2013–20162018–2021
Check a 2017 Abarth 500 / 595 / 695 (Type 312) by Registration