IsItAGoodCar
Reliability Guide

Common Problems with the
2020 Fiat 500 Facelift / Hybrid

For 2020 Fiat replaced the 1.2 with a 1.0 FireFly mild hybrid, added a seven-inch touchscreen with CarPlay and Android Auto, and launched the 500 RED edition. The Dualogic automatic was no longer offered.

What changed for 2020

  • •1.0 FireFly three-cylinder mild hybrid with 70PS, a 12V belt starter-generator and a six-speed manual
  • •Seven-inch Uconnect touchscreen with wired Android Auto and wireless Apple CarPlay
  • •500 RED edition launched, with a red finish and interior accents
  • •Dualogic automated manual no longer offered; the 1.0 hybrid became the volume petrol

Common MOT watch-outs

  • !Engine management light staying on after a cold start, an automatic MOT failure
  • !Rear axle bush wear and corroded rear brake pipes on 2016-era shells
  • !Corroded rear brake discs and weak handbrake balance on low-mileage cars
4
Known Issues
1
Serious
3
Moderate
0
Minor

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.

Est. Repair Cost: £600–£1,200
Warning Signs:

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

What to Inspect:
  • Check for annual oil changes using correct spec oil
  • Listen for "tappety" noises from the top of the engine
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Tailgate Wiring Loom Damage

ModerateElectrics & Electronics

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

Est. Repair Cost: £100–£250
Warning Signs:

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

What to Inspect:
  • Test every rear electrical component while moving the tailgate
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

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.

Est. Repair Cost: £180–£450
Warning Signs:

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

What to Inspect:
  • Inspect front tyres for inner-edge wear
  • Drive over rough surfaces at low speed
  • Check MOT history for front suspension advisories
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

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.

Est. Repair Cost: £100–£600
Warning Signs:

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

What to Inspect:
  • Inspect coolant reservoir for hairline cracks
  • Check the front of the engine for oil residue
  • Ask about coolant top-up history
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Buying Tips for 2020 Fiat 500 Facelift / Hybrid

  • Check the stop-start and hybrid assistance work from cold, not just when warm
  • Ask whether the auxiliary belt has been replaced and listen for a squeal on start-up
  • Confirm the seven-inch screen connects to both CarPlay and Android Auto
2017–20192021
Check a 2020 Fiat 500 Facelift / Hybrid by Registration