Used Fiat 500

What to know before buying: Fiat 500

From 1 forum thread and 3 press tests · updated 11/10/2026

What the reviews say

• Compact dimensions, light steering and good manoeuvrability make the 500 particularly convenient in town and when parking.[2][3]Fiat 500 hečbeks (08-)
• The front offers adequate space and comfort, but the rear seats are better suited to children or short journeys.[2][3]Fiat 500 hečbeks (08-)
• The driving position is generally well designed and the controls are simple, although some switches and the instrument display require familiarisation.[3]one sourceFiat 500 hečbeks (08-)
• The suspension combines comfort with cornering stability, but the car can bounce on cobbles and engine noise is clearly audible inside.[3]one sourceFiat 500 hečbeks (08-)

Typical faults

• The used-car guide says diesel engines can cause trouble, but identifies neither a specific component nor a failure mileage.[4]one sourceFiat 500 hečbeks (08-)

  diesel

• Some interior trim pieces may rattle or detach completely; the source reports this more often on black and bright-red cars.[4]one sourceFiat 500 hečbeks (08-)
• One owner of a 2010 1.2 petrol car reported rough-idle sensations, near-stalling and occasional hard starting; several workshops failed to identify the cause.[1]one sourceFiat 500 hečbeks (08-)

  2010–2010 · 1.2 petrol

Which engine and version to take

• For lower running costs, consider the 1.2 petrol: the test quotes 5.1 l/100 km average consumption, while the used-car guide warns about diesels.[3][4]Fiat 500 hečbeks (08-)
• The 1.4 petrol with a six-speed manual suits more energetic driving: its 100 hp was sufficient both in town and for overtaking in the test.[3]one sourceFiat 500 hečbeks (08-)

What to avoid

• Approach the diesel version cautiously: the used-car guide explicitly warns that diesel engines can cause problems.[4]one sourceFiat 500 hečbeks (08-)

What to check at the inspection

• Check the service history and confirm maintenance followed the manufacturer's intervals; the source associates this with avoiding unusual problems.[4]one sourceFiat 500 hečbeks (08-)
• Inspect and gently move the interior trim, checking for rattles, loose mountings or detached pieces.[4]one sourceFiat 500 hečbeks (08-)
• On a 1.2 petrol test drive, warm the engine and check its idle, starting behaviour and response when electrical loads are switched on.[1]one sourceFiat 500 hečbeks (08-)
• Check that the engine-warning light is not illuminated; for a diesel, the source advises going directly to a dealer if it appears.[4]one sourceFiat 500 hečbeks (08-)

Verdict

Sources

1. [1]iauto.lv — Fiat 500 - Forums · forum
2. [2]whatcar.lv — Fiat 500 hečbeks (08-) Atsauksmes par auto - WhatCar.lv · press
3. [3]tvnet.lv — TVNET tests: "Fiat 500" · press
4. [4]whatcar.lv — Fiat 500 hečbeks (08-) - What Car? - WhatCar.lv · press

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