IsItAGoodCar

Common Problems with the
2008–2015 Fiat 500 (Type 312)

We've identified 3 known issues that can affect the 2008–2015 Fiat 500 (Type 312). 1 of these are serious faults that could be expensive to repair.

3
Known Issues
1
Serious
2
Moderate
0
Minor

All Known Issues

Dualogic Gearbox Actuator Failure

SeriousGearbox & Transmission

The Selespeed-derived Dualogic system frequently suffers from internal leaks or electrical motor failure in the actuator unit.

Most affected: 1.2 Dualogic, 0.9 TwinAir Dualogic

Estimated cost: £800–£2,500Affects: 2008–2015Often appears around: 40,000–70,000 miles

Typical symptoms

  • •Drops into Neutral while driving
  • •Refuses to select Reverse
  • •Gearbox warning light on dash

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Listen for the pump priming when opening the driver door
  • ✓Check for smooth shifts during a long test drive
  • ✓Look for gearbox fluid leaks under the car

Rear Axle Bush Wear

ModerateSuspension & Chassis

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

Most affected: All hatchbacks

Estimated cost: £150–£400Affects: 2008–2015Often appears around: 40,000–60,000 miles

Typical symptoms

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

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Check MOT history for "Rear axle pin/bush" advisories
  • ✓Visually inspect bushes for tearing

Blue&Me Module Failure

ModerateElectrics & Electronics

The Microsoft-developed infotainment module is prone to hardware failure, often triggered by battery swaps or voltage drops.

Most affected: All models with Blue&Me

Estimated cost: £100–£450Affects: 2008–2015Often appears around: Age-related

Typical symptoms

  • •Flashing odometer
  • •Bluetooth not connecting
  • •USB port not reading music

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Confirm the odometer is not flashing
  • ✓Test Bluetooth pairing with a modern smartphone

Buying Tips for the 2008 Fiat 500 (Type 312)

  • ✓Prioritise manual cars over Dualogic semi-autos to avoid the most common major expense.
  • ✓Check the rear axle bushes (look for MOT advisories); they are a labour-intensive fix.
  • ✓Ensure Blue&Me (Bluetooth/USB) works; a flashing odometer often indicates a failed module.
  • ✓Test the heater blend doors by cycling from full hot to full cold; clicking sounds mean a broken internal tab.

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Other Fiat 500 (Type 312) Year Periods

2008–2015

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