IsItAGoodCar

Common Problems with the
2016–2021 Fiat 500 Facelift / Hybrid

We've identified 4 known issues that can affect the 2016–2021 Fiat 500 Facelift / Hybrid. 1 of these are serious faults that could be expensive to repair.

4
Known Issues
1
Serious
3
Moderate
0
Minor

The 2016–2021 period has 2 more issues than the Fiat 500 Facelift / Hybrid average across all year periods.

All Known Issues

MultiAir / TwinAir Actuator Failure

SeriousEngine

The hydraulic valve control system is sensitive to oil quality. Sludge build-up causes the unit to fail, requiring full replacement.

Most affected: 0.9 TwinAir

Estimated cost: £600–£1,200Affects: 2016–2021Often appears around: 30,000–60,000 miles

Typical symptoms

  • •Rough running/misfire
  • •Check Engine light
  • •Loss of power

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Check for annual oil changes using correct spec oil
  • ✓Listen for "tappety" noises from the top of the engine

Tailgate Wiring Loom Damage

ModerateElectrics & Electronics

Wires inside the rubber boot between the body and tailgate snap over time due to repeated opening.

Most affected: Hatchback models

Estimated cost: £100–£250Affects: 2016–2024Often appears around: 5+ years old

Typical symptoms

  • •Rear wiper working on its own
  • •Number plate lights fail
  • •Boot won't unlock

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Test every rear electrical component while moving the tailgate

Front suspension bush and ball-joint wear

ModerateSuspension & Chassis

Front suspension bushes and ball joints wear prematurely on the facelifted 500, causing knocking over bumps and vague steering. The bumper often needs removing to access the bushes, pushing up labour costs.

Most affected: All facelift 500 models

Estimated cost: £180–£450Affects: 2016–2024Often appears around: 30,000–60,000 miles

Typical symptoms

  • •Knocking over speed bumps
  • •Vague or loose steering feel
  • •Uneven front tyre wear

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Inspect front tyres for inner-edge wear
  • ✓Drive over rough surfaces at low speed
  • ✓Check MOT history for front suspension advisories

Coolant reservoir cracking and TwinAir oil weep

ModerateEngine

The plastic coolant reservoir can crack and cause slow coolant loss, while the 0.9 TwinAir engine is prone to oil seeping from the timing cover area due to sealing issues. Both are easy to miss but can cause serious damage if ignored.

Most affected: 0.9 TwinAir, 1.2 petrol

Estimated cost: £100–£600Affects: 2016–2021Often appears around: 20,000–60,000 miles

Typical symptoms

  • •Low coolant warning
  • •Sweet smell from engine bay
  • •Oily patches under the front of the car
  • •Burning oil smell when driving

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Inspect coolant reservoir for hairline cracks
  • ✓Check the front of the engine for oil residue
  • ✓Ask about coolant top-up history

Buying Tips for the 2016 Fiat 500 Facelift / Hybrid

  • ✓Check the tailgate wiring loom; it often frays in the rubber gaiter causing electrical chaos.
  • ✓On TwinAir models, check for high-quality oil service history to protect the turbo and actuator.
  • ✓Test the Uconnect screen for "ghost touching" or unresponsive areas.
2022–2024 Fiat 500 Facelift / Hybrid

Browse 2016–2021 Fiat 500 Facelift / Hybrid in our Directory

View MOT history, registration data, and reliability scores for 2016–2021 Fiat 500 Facelift / Hybrid vehicles.

View 2016–2021 Directory

Other Fiat 500 Facelift / Hybrid Year Periods

2016–20212022–2024

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