2012 model year · 680+ owner reports · Updated April 2026
According to Au7o's analysis of 680+ owner reports, the 2012 Fiat 500 has 6 documented known issues, with 1 rated critical. The most serious is MultiAir Actuator Failure ($800-$1,400 repair). The most commonly reported issue is MultiAir Actuator Failure with 185 owner reports. Across all issues, repair costs range from $200 to $2,000. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.
On the 2012-2019 Fiat 500 1.4L MultiAir Turbo, 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.
Replace the MultiAir actuator unit on top of the cylinder head. Use updated Mopar part number for revised design.
On the 2012-2019 Fiat 500, the 1.4L MultiAir engine can consume oil at a rate of 1 quart per 1,000-2,000 miles, particularly on higher-mileage examples. The MultiAir system and turbo oil seals are the primary contributors.
Monitor oil level frequently and top off as needed. For severe cases, replace the MultiAir actuator seals and check turbo oil feed and return lines for restriction.
On the 2012-2019 Fiat 500, 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.
Replace the clutch disc and pressure plate assembly. Consider upgrading to a single-mass flywheel conversion if the dual-mass flywheel is worn.
On the 2012-2019 Fiat 500, 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.
Replace the input shaft bearing or rebuild the transmission. Ensure correct transmission fluid is used (75W-85 GL-4).
On the 2012-2019 Fiat 500, 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.
Replace the AC compressor, receiver/drier, and expansion valve. Flush the system to remove debris before charging with R-134a refrigerant.
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."
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.
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.
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."
Enter your VIN at NHTSA.gov to check recalls specific to your vehicle.
Don't see your problem? Describe your symptoms to get a diagnosis, or get a full repair guide.
According to Au7o's analysis of 680+ owner reports, the 2012-2012 Fiat 500 has 6 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: MultiAir Actuator Failure, Excessive Oil Consumption, Manual Clutch Shudder and Chatter. Of these, 1 is rated critical and should be addressed promptly.
The 2012-2012 Fiat 500 has 6 known issues documented across 680+ owner reports. 1 issue is rated critical: MultiAir Actuator 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.
Repair costs for known Fiat 500 issues range from $200 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.
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: critical.
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.
The 1.4L MultiAir engine can consume oil at a rate of 1 quart per 1,000-2,000 miles, particularly on higher-mileage examples. The MultiAir system and turbo oil seals are the primary contributors. Repairs typically run $200-$1,500. Severity: medium.
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.
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.
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.
