IsItAGoodCar
Reliability Guide

Common Problems with the
2010 Fiat 500 (Type 312)

We've identified 3 known issues that can affect the 2010 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.

Est. Repair Cost: £800–£2,500
Warning Signs:

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

What to Inspect:
  • 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
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

Blue&Me Module Failure

ModerateElectrics & Electronics

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

Est. Repair Cost: £100–£450
Warning Signs:

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

What to Inspect:
  • Confirm the odometer is not flashing
  • Test Bluetooth pairing with a modern smartphone
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Buying Tips for 2010 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 on older cars.
  • 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.
  • Inspect the door handles and exterior trim, which can become brittle and break on older cars.
  • Check the coolant reservoir for hairline cracks—slow coolant loss is a common issue on higher-mileage examples.