2012 Fiat 500 Problems: 6 Known Issues
2012 model year · 680+ owner reports · Updated November 2026
According to Au7o's analysis of 680+ owner reports, the 2012 Fiat 500 has 6 documented known issues, with 2 rated critical. The most serious are MultiAir Actuator Failure ($800-$1,400 repair) and Electric Power Steering (EPS) Failure ($700-$1,500 repair). The most commonly reported issue is MultiAir Actuator Failure with 185 owner reports. Across all issues with published estimates, repair costs range from $600 to $2,000. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.
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All 6 Known Issues
When Issues Typically Appear
NHTSA Recalls5 recalls
POWER TRAIN:MANUAL TRANSMISSION:FLOOR SHIFT ASSEMBLY
DLT, LLC. is recalling certain CravenSpeed Fiat Short Shifter shafts sold for use in 2011-2019 Fiat 500 vehicles. The Shifter Shaft may have been improperly manufactured with a through hole for the set screw rather than a blind hole, which may lead to the breakage of the Shifter Shaft.
TIRES:PRESSURE MONITORING AND REGULATING SYSTEMS
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2014-2019 Fiat 500 vehicles. The tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) warning light may not illuminate as intended. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 138, "Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems."
EQUIPMENT:OTHER:LABELS
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain model year 2016 Fiat 500 vehicles manufactured June 11, 2015, to July 27, 2016. The tire placard on the affected vehicles lists a tire inflation pressure for the spare tire that exceeds the maximum pressure listed on the sidewall. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 110, "Tire Selection and Rims."
POWER TRAIN:MANUAL TRANSMISSION
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain model year 2012-2016 Fiat 500 vehicles manufactured June 21, 2010, through January 12, 2016, equipped with a manual transmission. The clutch diaphragm spring may fracture and fail, causing an inability to switch gears.
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain model year 2013-2015 Fiat 500 battery electric vehicles manufactured March 8, 2013, to March 7, 2015. The Electric Vehicle Control Unit (EVCU) of the affected vehicles may set a diagnostic trouble code (DTC) that may cause the transmission to unexpectedly shift to neutral.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most common Fiat 500 problems?
According to Au7o's analysis of 680+ owner reports, the 2012 Fiat 500 has 6 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: MultiAir Actuator Failure, Electric Power Steering (EPS) Failure, Oil Level Drops Between Changes (Oil Burning or Seal Leaks). Of these, 2 are rated critical and should be addressed promptly.
Is the Fiat 500 reliable?
The 2012 Fiat 500 has 6 known issues documented across 680+ owner reports. 2 issues are rated critical: MultiAir Actuator Failure and Electric Power Steering (EPS) Failure. Prospective buyers should inspect for these issues and factor potential repair costs into their purchase decision. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.
How much does it cost to fix common Fiat 500 problems?
Repair costs for known Fiat 500 issues range from $600 to $2,000, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, MultiAir Actuator Failure, typically costs $800-$1,400 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.
What is the 2012-2019 Fiat 500 MultiAir Actuator Failure?
The MultiAir electro-hydraulic valve actuation system can fail, causing rough idle, misfires, and check engine light with codes P0014 or P1014. This is a common failure on the 1.4L MultiAir engine, often occurring between 40,000 and 80,000 miles. Repairs typically run $800-$1,400. Severity: high.
What is the 2012-2019 Fiat 500 Electric Power Steering (EPS) Failure?
The electric power steering system can fail intermittently or completely, causing sudden loss of power assist. The steering column motor or its control module is typically the root cause. Repairs typically run $700-$1,500. Severity: high.
What is the 2012-2013 Fiat 500 Oil Level Drops Between Changes (Oil Burning or Seal Leaks)?
Owners of 2012-2013 Fiat 500s with the 1.4L MultiAir report the oil level dropping between oil changes. One 2012 owner says the engine light came on at about 10,000 miles with only about a quarter of the oil left. The dealer ran an oil consumption test, checking the level every 5… Repairs typically run $900-$1,100. Severity: medium.
What is the 2012-2019 Fiat 500 Manual Clutch Shudder and Chatter?
The manual transmission clutch develops a shudder or chatter during engagement, especially in first and reverse gears. The dual-mass flywheel can also develop noise and vibration over time. Repairs typically run $600-$1,200. Severity: medium.
What is the 2012-2019 Fiat 500 Transmission Input Shaft Bearing Noise?
The manual transmission input shaft bearing wears prematurely, producing a whining or grinding noise that changes with clutch pedal position. The noise is most noticeable at idle with the clutch engaged. Repairs typically run $800-$2,000. Severity: medium.
What is the 2012-2019 Fiat 500 AC Compressor Failure?
The AC compressor fails prematurely due to internal clutch or bearing failure. When the compressor seizes, it can also damage the serpentine belt and contaminate the AC system with debris. Repairs typically run $600-$1,200. Severity: medium.
Content on this page was compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, owner reports, and public automotive data. While we strive for accuracy, this information may contain errors. Always verify repair procedures and specifications with your vehicle's service manual or a qualified mechanic.