Fiat 500 312 (thermique) (2007 – 2023)

Reliability score : 7.4/10

The Fiat 500 (generation 312) is an icon of modern automotive design. Launched in 2007, it resurrected the 'Cinquecento' myth with phenomenal commercial success, based on the Fiat Panda II platform. It received a major facelift (Phase 2) in 2015. Although its primary purpose is urban, Fiat made the choice (very popular at the time in Europe) to equip it with the small 1.3 MultiJet diesel engine. While this unit is intrinsically robust and very economical on the road, its association with purely urban use has generated numerous reliability problems (DPF, EGR valve, timing chain). This report focuses on the diesel versions while providing an exhaustive overview of other powertrains to help you make the right choice.

✅ Strengths

Timeless design and unparalleled charm
1.3 MultiJet engine, very torquey and economical on open roads
1.2 Fire petrol engine with exemplary reliability
Ideal size for parking (3.57 m)
Very low cost of spare parts (excluding TwinAir and Diesel DPF)

⚠️ Weaknesses

Diesel engine (1.3 MJT) catastrophic if used only in the city (DPF, EGR, Chain)
Imperfect driving position (steering wheel not depth-adjustable)
Very limited rear passenger space and boot volume (185 liters)
Dualogic automated gearbox slow, prone to jerks and actuator failures
Rapid wear of front wishbone bushings and shock absorber mounts

🎯 Verdict

The Fiat 500 is an emotional purchase that can prove very rational, provided you choose the right engine. Regarding the 1.3 MultiJet Diesel: it's an excellent engine for a Punto or a Tipo that drives a lot, but it's nonsensical in a 500 intended for the city. If you buy a used 1.3 MJT, make sure the previous owner drove on the open road and absolutely check the condition of the timing chain. For 90% of Fiat 500 buyers, the modest but indestructible 1.2 Fire 69 hp (or the recent 1.0 hybrid) is the absolute preferred choice. Avoid TwinAir versions and the Dualogic automated gearbox.

Common issues

Encrassement du FAP (Filtre à Particules Diesel) Medium

🔧 80 000 – 150 000 km

💶 150 – 1 800 € (selon régénération, nettoyage ou remplacement)

Privilégier les trajets longs et réguliers pour une bonne régénération du FAP.

Dysfonctionnement de la vanne EGR (encrassement) Medium

🔧 70 000 – 130 000 km

💶 100 – 600 € (selon nettoyage ou remplacement)

Un nettoyage préventif peut éviter le remplacement coûteux de la vanne EGR.

Usure ou allongement de la chaîne de distribution (moteur 1.3 Multijet) High

🔧 150 000 – 250 000 km

💶 800 – 1 500 €

Écouter les bruits anormaux au démarrage et respecter scrupuleusement les vidanges.

Problèmes de turbo (grippage, fuite d'huile) Medium

🔧 120 000 – 200 000 km

💶 800 – 1 800 €

Laisser le moteur refroidir au ralenti quelques instants avant de couper le contact.

Estimated maintenance costs

Oil change	£70 – 130
Timing chain	£650 – 1 200
Clutch	£750 – 1 300
Complete brakes	£220 – 480
Estimated annual budget	£550 – 1 100

Indicative estimates (independent garage, UK market). Prices vary by region and year.