fiat 500 2012 Complaints

SEATS

this vehicle was recently awarded an iihs top pick safety award, but only for vehicles manufactured after july, 2011, when fiat redesigned the seats for better side-impact protection. i own a fiat 500 manufactured before july, so clearly my car is not as safe as those built afterward. can nhtsa investigate and possibly force fiat to recall the early vehicles to install the safer seats? from my dealings with them on simple, little things i'm confident they wouldn't volunteer to do it on their own.

Reported in: LONG BEACH CA || Crash: N || VIN #: 3C3CFFAR2C2

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

car was stalling and shutting off. had my daughter in the car. couldn't start the car after 3 attempts. then after waiting a good 3 minutes started the car and revved the engine at 4000 rpm and everything seemed back to normal. dealer hasn't been able to duplicate.

Reported in: GLENDALE CA || Crash: N || VIN #: 3C3CFFBR7CT

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

car was stalling and shutting off. had my daughter in the car. couldn't start the car after 3 attempts. then after waiting a good 3 minutes started the car and revved the engine at 4000 rpm and everything seemed back to normal. dealer hasn't been able to duplicate.

Reported in: GLENDALE CA || Crash: N || VIN #: 3C3CFFBR7CT

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE

car was stalling and shutting off. had my daughter in the car. couldn't start the car after 3 attempts. then after waiting a good 3 minutes started the car and revved the engine at 4000 rpm and everything seemed back to normal. dealer hasn't been able to duplicate.

Reported in: GLENDALE CA || Crash: N || VIN #: 3C3CFFBR7CT

STEERING

axle is making cracking noises and dealer said they can't duplicate after 2 attempts. noise is getting louder. first started at 600 miles. safety issue.

Reported in: GLENDALE CA || Crash: N || VIN #: 3C3CFFBR7CT

SUSPENSION

axle is making cracking noises and dealer said they can't duplicate after 2 attempts. noise is getting louder. first started at 600 miles. safety issue.

Reported in: GLENDALE CA || Crash: N || VIN #: 3C3CFFBR7CT

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

i'd pulled over in a parking lot to take a phone call (bluetooth reception was static-y), and was sitting with my foot resting on the brake pedal. i felt a kick under my foot, turned the engine off and removed my foot from the brake as i completed the call. when i started the car and pulled to the edge of the lot's exit, i of course stepped on the brake to stop and check for traffic, but the brake pedal was stuck and i rolled into the street. i hope i used the handbrake to stop the car, although i really don't remember. i did reverse back into the parking lot, using the slight slope of the driveway to ensure i could stop once out of the street. the car was towed to the dealer. it's probably unrelated, but the voice recognition system was working sporadically that same morning. *kb

Reported in: LOS GATOS CA || Crash: N || VIN #: 3C3CFFAR2CT

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

i'd pulled over in a parking lot to take a phone call (bluetooth reception was static-y), and was sitting with my foot resting on the brake pedal. i felt a kick under my foot, turned the engine off and removed my foot from the brake as i completed the call. when i started the car and pulled to the edge of the lot's exit, i of course stepped on the brake to stop and check for traffic, but the brake pedal was stuck and i rolled into the street. i hope i used the handbrake to stop the car, although i really don't remember. i did reverse back into the parking lot, using the slight slope of the driveway to ensure i could stop once out of the street. the car was towed to the dealer. it's probably unrelated, but the voice recognition system was working sporadically that same morning. *kb

Reported in: LOS GATOS CA || Crash: N || VIN #: 3C3CFFAR2CT

VISIBILITY

heavy moisture appears on the inside of the windshield after car cools. could lead to damage to electrical components.

Reported in: KNOXVILLE TN || Crash: N || VIN #: 3C3CFFAR5CT

STRUCTURE

heavy moisture appears on the inside of the windshield after car cools. could lead to damage to electrical components.

Reported in: KNOXVILLE TN || Crash: N || VIN #: 3C3CFFAR5CT

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

really cold morning, upon starting, the tpms reported the left front tire low on pressure. and tire light stayed on. i had all 4 tires checked and filled to specs, continental tires, but the tire light stayed on for the next day and a half, wherein i drove about 65 miles, and turned the car on/off numerous times. (at work, store, overnight, etc.) the tire place that i took the car too to have the air checked, was unable to determine how to reset the tpms. there was nothing out about this car yet. (fyi, you can use a chrysler reset unit) the tire light finally went out the next day on it's own on the way home from work. went to the fiat dealership a few days later to find out how to reset the tpms if/when it happens again. the service manager checked it out. let air out until the light came on, then filled it to the correct pressure, then drove it about 50 feet, and the tpms light reset itself. so, the system appears to operating properly now after what i had observed. will watch to see if it becomes a problem.

Reported in: OKLAHOMA CITY OK || Crash: N || VIN #:

TIRES:PRESSURE MONITORING AND REGULATING SYSTEMS

really cold morning, upon starting, the tpms reported the left front tire low on pressure. and tire light stayed on. i had all 4 tires checked and filled to specs, continental tires, but the tire light stayed on for the next day and a half, wherein i drove about 65 miles, and turned the car on/off numerous times. (at work, store, overnight, etc.) the tire place that i took the car too to have the air checked, was unable to determine how to reset the tpms. there was nothing out about this car yet. (fyi, you can use a chrysler reset unit) the tire light finally went out the next day on it's own on the way home from work. went to the fiat dealership a few days later to find out how to reset the tpms if/when it happens again. the service manager checked it out. let air out until the light came on, then filled it to the correct pressure, then drove it about 50 feet, and the tpms light reset itself. so, the system appears to operating properly now after what i had observed. will watch to see if it becomes a problem.

Reported in: OKLAHOMA CITY OK || Crash: N || VIN #:

STRUCTURE:BODY

body seams left open/unwelded during manufacturing causing water leaks and electrical problems affecting brakes, lighting, restraint systems, power door locks, windows, mirrors, abs, esp, hill start assist, etc. open/unwelded areas also weren't painted during manufacturing. improper repairs performed. "sealant" applied to close seams that should have been welded. purchased 12/22/2011. found interior wet on 12/25/2011. returned to dealer on 01/02/2012. spent 21 days in the shop. problem was found to be, "numerous open body seams measuring over 10 inches long that were left open and unwelded and unpainted during manufacturing." car was returned to me "repaired" on 1/23/2012. i immediately began experiencing numerous electrical problems. then, noticed that the car was leaking, again, and even worse, on 1/30/2012. car was never repaired/improperly repaired. interior very wet. electrical problems getting worse. problems with brakes and 'hill start assist'. fiat will not return my calls. i've sent letters asking that the car be replaced. the car is unsafe to drive. *kb

Reported in: KNOXVILLE TN || Crash: N || VIN #: 3C3CFFAR5CT

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

body seams left open/unwelded during manufacturing causing water leaks and electrical problems affecting brakes, lighting, restraint systems, power door locks, windows, mirrors, abs, esp, hill start assist, etc. open/unwelded areas also weren't painted during manufacturing. improper repairs performed. "sealant" applied to close seams that should have been welded. purchased 12/22/2011. found interior wet on 12/25/2011. returned to dealer on 01/02/2012. spent 21 days in the shop. problem was found to be, "numerous open body seams measuring over 10 inches long that were left open and unwelded and unpainted during manufacturing." car was returned to me "repaired" on 1/23/2012. i immediately began experiencing numerous electrical problems. then, noticed that the car was leaking, again, and even worse, on 1/30/2012. car was never repaired/improperly repaired. interior very wet. electrical problems getting worse. problems with brakes and 'hill start assist'. fiat will not return my calls. i've sent letters asking that the car be replaced. the car is unsafe to drive. *kb

Reported in: KNOXVILLE TN || Crash: N || VIN #: 3C3CFFAR5CT

AIR BAGS

the airbag failure warning light has consistently activated on my new fiat since i purchased the vehicle new. have returned the car for service to the dealer numerous times regarding this issue; many times the dealer has informed me that they show no indication of the airbag failure light being activated. since then, i have taken numerous photos with my phone of the airbag failure warning light being triggered as the dealer's service department seemed to need more evidence of this occurrence. however, the issue has yet to be resolved and i am seeking resolution through the better business bureau. *js

Reported in: PERRIS CA || Crash: N || VIN #: 3C3CFFCR5CT

STEERING

the steering wheel makes a bad noise when turning the wheel. i brought the vehicle in to the dealership and they verified that it is a defective steering column. they put part on order. it has been a month and still not in. i called the corporate headquarters and they said that they would try to expedite the part. i explained that i've been waiting for a month now, and the dealership said they would cancel the order and re order it. what do i have to get in a crash first and wait another month? maybe hurt not only myself, but god forbid others? please help.

Reported in: OVIEDO FL || Crash: N || VIN #: 3C3CFFBR5CT

FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

tl* the contact owns a 2012 chrysler fiat 500. the contact stated that the fuel level gauge would independently move to the full mark and the vehicle would suddenly stall. the vehicle had to be placed in neutral in order to get it to restart. the contact took the vehicle to the dealer, but the dealer could not determine what caused the failure. the dealer stated they would need to contact the manufacturer. the vin was not available. the failure mileage and current mileages were 8,000.

Reported in: BUCKEYE AZ || Crash: N || VIN #:

SEATS

passenger seat does not secure to under carriage after being leaned forward for entry to back seat. vigorous manipulation will eventually set it, but if not set sudden acceleration will bring seat forcefully against the legs of rear passenger. this occurred to us last year. 3 service visits to kirkland, wa dealership have all resulted in our being told that the seats are the #1 complaint and that the operation is normal.

Reported in: VASHON WA || Crash: N || VIN #: 3C3CFFER5CT

ENGINE

multiple occasions, probably > 10 times in past two months. at low steady speed, such as driving in a parking lot, when i let up on gas pedal, the car does not slow down immediately. one expects the immediate, slight feeling of deceleration on the body, but it doesn't come right away. usually it lasts about one second. it has lasted up to three seconds. recently this happened while driving steadily at 30mph, i let up on accelerator entering a 20mph zone, and car did not slow down immediately. this was the occasion it took 3 seconds. i have been paying attention to this issue recently because it happens so much. i have not noticed this problem at high speed, such as expressway driving.

Reported in: SPOKANE WA || Crash: N || VIN #: 3C3CFFAR1CT

FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

multiple occasions, probably > 10 times in past two months. at low steady speed, such as driving in a parking lot, when i let up on gas pedal, the car does not slow down immediately. one expects the immediate, slight feeling of deceleration on the body, but it doesn't come right away. usually it lasts about one second. it has lasted up to three seconds. recently this happened while driving steadily at 30mph, i let up on accelerator entering a 20mph zone, and car did not slow down immediately. this was the occasion it took 3 seconds. i have been paying attention to this issue recently because it happens so much. i have not noticed this problem at high speed, such as expressway driving.

Reported in: SPOKANE WA || Crash: N || VIN #: 3C3CFFAR1CT

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

the key fob button is not recessed. this means the ignition key often opens into my pocket just from normal body movement. it stabs my thigh. this is a vehicle safety problem because it happens when i am driving my other vehicle and can be extremely distracting.

Reported in: SPOKANE WA || Crash: N || VIN #: 3C3CFFAR1CT

SERVICE BRAKES

tl* the contact owns a 2012 fiat 500. the contact stated that when water penetrated the rear brakes, it caused the brakes to seize. the failure was experienced several times. the vehicle was taken to the dealer where the failure could not be duplicated. the manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. the vehicle was not repaired. the failure mileage was 3,000 and the current 18,000.

Reported in: MONTICELLO FL || Crash: N || VIN #: 3C3CFFDR0CT

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

the steering column, down by the floor sucked my floor mat up under my accelerator and brake pedal. i could not brake, or turn the steering wheel. ...updated 06/28/13 *bf

Reported in: NILES OH || Crash: N || VIN #: 3C3CFFAR4CT

EQUIPMENT

the steering column, down by the floor sucked my floor mat up under my accelerator and brake pedal. i could not brake, or turn the steering wheel. ...updated 06/28/13 *bf

Reported in: NILES OH || Crash: N || VIN #: 3C3CFFAR4CT

STEERING

the steering column, down by the floor sucked my floor mat up under my accelerator and brake pedal. i could not brake, or turn the steering wheel. ...updated 06/28/13 *bf

Reported in: NILES OH || Crash: N || VIN #: 3C3CFFAR4CT

VISIBILITY:POWER WINDOW DEVICES AND CONTROLS

tl* the contact owns a 2012 fiat 500. the contact stated that when using the window switch for the window to close upward, the window would instead open farther and travel downward. when the window was engaged to be opened, the window would instead travel upward and close. the vehicle was taken to the dealer where they advised the contact that the vehicle was built to operate in the manner in which it was. the manufacturer was contacted and they offered no assistance to the contact. the failure and current mileage was approximately 3,000.

Reported in: ORAMOND BEACH FL || Crash: N || VIN #: 3C3CFFDR0CT

SEAT BELTS

a vehicle in the right lane made a u-turn, crossing the left lane causing the fiat to t-bone the vehicle making the u-turn. the seat belt did not restrain the fiat driver and the driver contacted the steering wheel with enough force to cause a significant compression injury to the sternum. the driver was transported by ems to a hospital. the vehicle could not be driven and suffered nearly $13,000 damage. earlier in the drive, the fiat 500 driver had to rock forward at an on-ramp to release the seat belt in order to view approaching traffic via the left outside mirror. apparently, the seat belt does not or did not reengage after this movement leaving it free and the driver unrestrained. air bags did not deploy.

Reported in: ALIQUIPPA PA || Crash: Y || VIN #:

STRUCTURE:BODY

a vehicle in the right lane made a u-turn, crossing the left lane causing the fiat to t-bone the vehicle making the u-turn. the seat belt did not restrain the fiat driver and the driver contacted the steering wheel with enough force to cause a significant compression injury to the sternum. the driver was transported by ems to a hospital. the vehicle could not be driven and suffered nearly $13,000 damage. earlier in the drive, the fiat 500 driver had to rock forward at an on-ramp to release the seat belt in order to view approaching traffic via the left outside mirror. apparently, the seat belt does not or did not reengage after this movement leaving it free and the driver unrestrained. air bags did not deploy.

Reported in: ALIQUIPPA PA || Crash: Y || VIN #:

AIR BAGS

a vehicle in the right lane made a u-turn, crossing the left lane causing the fiat to t-bone the vehicle making the u-turn. the seat belt did not restrain the fiat driver and the driver contacted the steering wheel with enough force to cause a significant compression injury to the sternum. the driver was transported by ems to a hospital. the vehicle could not be driven and suffered nearly $13,000 damage. earlier in the drive, the fiat 500 driver had to rock forward at an on-ramp to release the seat belt in order to view approaching traffic via the left outside mirror. apparently, the seat belt does not or did not reengage after this movement leaving it free and the driver unrestrained. air bags did not deploy.

Reported in: ALIQUIPPA PA || Crash: Y || VIN #:

AIR BAGS

tl* the contact owns a 2012 fiat 500c. the contact was driving 40 mph and crashed into another vehicle. the air bags failed to deploy. the vehicle was destroyed. there was damage to the front fender and the front driver's side door. the contact sustained a mild concussion. a police report was not filed of the incident. the vehicle was not inspected to determine the cause of the failure. the manufacturer was made aware of the failure, but did not offer any assistance. the failure and current mileage was 20,000.

Reported in: SURFSIDE CA || Crash: Y || VIN #: 3C3CFFBR9CT

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

i own a 2012 fiat pop that i purchased new about a year ago. one thing that did not go away and was ever present at any time was the limp mode for the engine over the last few days. recycling did not work to correct problem and gauges were out. the indicator light on panel showed in limp mode when it worked. gauges kept going on and off sometimes for short periods and other times for longer periods. on 6/10/13 my vehicle caught fire in the dashboard. i was traveling back from the store in limp mode hoping it would go out but never did.i parked the car in front of my development pool and went to visit my employee there. within about 5 minutes or so she said that my lights were flashing. i checked and went to the vehicle. it was engulfed with smoke and a nasty electrical smell. fire department came. i was told that i had to wait for the fire inspector to come and examine my vehicle. he came. began tearing my dashboard apart to find the cause or source of the fire. it was determined by his knowledge and experience that the body control unit had failed and caused the fire. vehicle is totaled. the vehicle has only about 4000 miles on it. earlier that day before the incident i had called the local fiat dealer. explained the problem of the gauges not working, and limp mode, i asked if it was safe to drive and he said yes. at this point i made an appointment to have the vehicle looked at hopefully that day. only opening was next day at 2pm. i have filed an insurance claim and the vehicle has been towed away.

Reported in: WHITSETT NC || Crash: N || VIN #: 3C3CFFAR9CT

VISIBILITY:REARVIEW MIRRORS/DEVICES:EXTERIOR

driver-side side mirror vibrates making the objects in the mirror blurry and this is extremely unsafe. it is the 500c fiat vin [xxx]. information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u.s.c. 552(b)(6).

Reported in: SAN ANTONIO TX || Crash: N || VIN #: 3C3CFFDR5CT

SUSPENSION

tl* the contact owns a 2012 fiat 500. the contact stated that while the vehicle was parked, oil leaked from under the vehicle. the vehicle was towed to the dealer for diagnosis where it was stated that the rear main seal needed to be replaced. the vehicle was not repaired and the manufacturer was notified. the approximate failure mileage was 25,000.

Reported in: IDAHO FALLS ID || Crash: N || VIN #: 3C3CFFBR8CT

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION

tl* the contact owns a 2012 fiat 500. the contact stated that while attempting to start the vehicle, the vehicle stalled and the key become stuck in the ignition. the vehicle was not repaired and the manufacturer was not notified. the approximate failure mileage was 39,000.

Reported in: STAFFORD TX || Crash: N || VIN #: 3C3CFFARXCT

POWER TRAIN

tl* the contact owns a 2012 fiat 500. the contact stated that while attempting to start the vehicle, the vehicle stalled and the key become stuck in the ignition. the vehicle was not repaired and the manufacturer was not notified. the approximate failure mileage was 39,000.

Reported in: STAFFORD TX || Crash: N || VIN #: 3C3CFFARXCT

POWER TRAIN

tl* the contact owns a 2012 fiat 500 sport. the contact stated while driving 40 mph, the vehicle failed to shift gears. the vehicle was driven onto the emergency lane and the generic warning light was illuminated. the vehicle was not taken to the dealer for diagnostic testing. the vehicle was not repaired. the manufacturer was made aware of the failure. the failure mileage was 25,114.

Reported in: POOLESVILLE MD || Crash: N || VIN #: 3C3CFFBR7CT

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

i purchased vehicle certified used 20 jan 2013. the first day of driving the vehicle at highway speeds, i noticed a strong burning smell inside the cabin. vehicle has been taken back to the dealership 8 times and the service department cannot resolve the issue. i have opened a case with chrysler/ fiat resolution team. the customer service is horrible! they informed me that they were sending an engineer to service the car. an engineer was suppose to service the vehicle this week and they never showed up. the service rep at the dealership recalled the previous owner had the same issue before trading it in. that info was not disclosed to me before purchasing. dealership will not take the car back or replace it, headquarters intervention is not proactive. the vehicle is not safe to drive.

Reported in: RIVERVIEW FL || Crash: N || VIN #: 3C3CFFBR6CT

SUSPENSION

my fiat 500 has a defective rear axle. the rear wheels are not in alignment. the axle is solid and has no adjustment, therefore it is a manufacturing defect. the rear wheels are toed in excessively which has led to premature tire wear, vibration and inferior fuel mileage. this is a common defect on many early 500's and the dealer refuses to correct the problem.

Reported in: SALEM OR || Crash: N || VIN #: 3C3CFFAR9CT

POWER TRAIN

when i am driving and i am start slowing down for a light before it get to a full stop the transmission down shift to quick that makes the car jerk, i stop and wait for the light to change and it downshift by itself, it feels like somebody is hitting you on the rear of the car but nobody is there .i brought the car several times to the dealer but because it does not happen all the time nothing they could do about it. one of the times that i was at the dealer it happened. i put the car in reverse, drove it for 10 feet and then shifted to forward and the transmission would not do anything for 3 to 4 seconds then a jump (shifted to 1st gear) i was with the person who makes the appointments so he told me to bring the car next day. next day they drove it and the car would shift fine so nothing was fixed. last week, i told then to keep the car and let the foreman to drive it home so he would feel what it was happening, he told me that it happened once but on downshift and that could be a computer program and i have to wait until fiat develop a new program. they tried everything that they know and the final solution was the way that i drive or the computer have to adjust when i change my driving from the highway to the city i thing is a lot of bs i drive 120 miles daily to work and i am worry that the downshift will happen when i am driving on highway speed and of course they told me that the downshift will not happen on higher speed even that they said they do not know why i keep bringing the car with the same transmission problem. please help me to resolve this problem because even the car folds on the lemon law still i have to makes the payments. [xxx] information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u.s.c. 552(b)(6).

Reported in: WORCESTER MA || Crash: N || VIN #: 1B7HG38X12S

ENGINE

when i am driving and i am start slowing down for a light before it get to a full stop the transmission down shift to quick that makes the car jerk, i stop and wait for the light to change and it downshift by itself, it feels like somebody is hitting you on the rear of the car but nobody is there .i brought the car several times to the dealer but because it does not happen all the time nothing they could do about it. one of the times that i was at the dealer it happened. i put the car in reverse, drove it for 10 feet and then shifted to forward and the transmission would not do anything for 3 to 4 seconds then a jump (shifted to 1st gear) i was with the person who makes the appointments so he told me to bring the car next day. next day they drove it and the car would shift fine so nothing was fixed. last week, i told then to keep the car and let the foreman to drive it home so he would feel what it was happening, he told me that it happened once but on downshift and that could be a computer program and i have to wait until fiat develop a new program. they tried everything that they know and the final solution was the way that i drive or the computer have to adjust when i change my driving from the highway to the city i thing is a lot of bs i drive 120 miles daily to work and i am worry that the downshift will happen when i am driving on highway speed and of course they told me that the downshift will not happen on higher speed even that they said they do not know why i keep bringing the car with the same transmission problem. please help me to resolve this problem because even the car folds on the lemon law still i have to makes the payments. [xxx] information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u.s.c. 552(b)(6).

Reported in: WORCESTER MA || Crash: N || VIN #: 1B7HG38X12S

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE

reported electrical burning smell thru ventilation system. dealership denied electrical burning but found gas puncture in plastic gas tank, says smell is from burning gas. (owner disagrees) however with no other suspension or body damage found except the gas tank puncture there is great concern that this is a serious dangerous design flaw. that the tank can be punctured so easily without the knowledge of driver of any event.

Reported in: SARDIS MS || Crash: N || VIN #: 3C3CFFBRXCT

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

reported electrical burning smell thru ventilation system. dealership denied electrical burning but found gas puncture in plastic gas tank, says smell is from burning gas. (owner disagrees) however with no other suspension or body damage found except the gas tank puncture there is great concern that this is a serious dangerous design flaw. that the tank can be punctured so easily without the knowledge of driver of any event.

Reported in: SARDIS MS || Crash: N || VIN #: 3C3CFFBRXCT

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

air bag lights are not showing on the instrument cluster the airbags are not working!

Reported in: GAINESVILLE GA || Crash: N || VIN #: 3C3CFFAR2CT

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

air bag lights are not showing on the instrument cluster the airbags are not working!

Reported in: GAINESVILLE GA || Crash: N || VIN #: 3C3CFFAR2CT

AIR BAGS

air bag lights are not showing on the instrument cluster the airbags are not working!

Reported in: GAINESVILLE GA || Crash: N || VIN #: 3C3CFFAR2CT

VISIBILITY/WIPER

after dealer replaced faulty rear main seal in july/august 2013, rear wiper blade would activate with controls in off position, causing me to have to move front windshield wiper control arm up and down, and then rear wiper blades would stop. also the car starter would intermittently make a electrical noise after turning the key and the car wouldn't start, then i had to turn key two to three times to start car. after two months with above, in cold weather below 35 degrees the stereo, cd player, blueme systems won't work! it only starts to work after the car and surrounding environment reaches 40-45 degrees. called into dealer and have appointment for checking all and repair/replace components not working properly and safely.

Reported in: IDAHO FALLS ID || Crash: N || VIN #: 3C3CFFBR8CT

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

after dealer replaced faulty rear main seal in july/august 2013, rear wiper blade would activate with controls in off position, causing me to have to move front windshield wiper control arm up and down, and then rear wiper blades would stop. also the car starter would intermittently make a electrical noise after turning the key and the car wouldn't start, then i had to turn key two to three times to start car. after two months with above, in cold weather below 35 degrees the stereo, cd player, blueme systems won't work! it only starts to work after the car and surrounding environment reaches 40-45 degrees. called into dealer and have appointment for checking all and repair/replace components not working properly and safely.

Reported in: IDAHO FALLS ID || Crash: N || VIN #: 3C3CFFBR8CT

VISIBILITY

from california visiting family in oklahoma. at the time of visit we experienced a winter cold front that brought ice rain and snow. went out on the morning of the incident to warm the cars in the yard, and the temperature at the time was 18 degrees wind chill, with effect was 5 degrees. started the car and let it warm up for about 15 minutes, and heat and defrost were not turned on at the time, then after 15 minutes went out to turn off all the vehicles. i then turned off the fiat and close the doors and took two steps away from car and the rear window exploded outward. when i warmed up the car, no defroster was turned on of any kind, i just turned the car on so the fluids wouldn't freeze. i called ahead of time to ask all the appropriate questions before heading out to 45 minutes to the dealership. then i took it in to dealership to have it looked at, and was told that it was not covered under a standard 12 by 12 service contract without inspecting the vehicle. they didn't do any diagnostic test like they said they would over the phone, they only did a oil change that i asked for. they told us that it was impossible for this to happen, and it could only be caused by some type of impact. they never took off the plastic on the widows that we put on to hold what glass that was left in place. i called corporate and talked to service department, and gave them pertinent information concerning the window. they open the file for us, and checked warranties. then i was asked to describe what happened, she took down that information, and then was put on hold, because she need to confer with the technicians at the dealership. after talking with the technician, i was told by her that they conclude that it was impact related and could not be service under any warranty. we found additional situations on the internet on fiat windows exploding.

Reported in: FULLERTON CA || Crash: N || VIN #: 3C3CFFAR7CT

STEERING

i was driving home on a road flat/straight road with a 50 mph speed limit. i was shifting my gears (manual) as i noticed that the light ahead was turning from red to green. i could not get the gear to grasp 3rd. moreover, the when i tried pressing the brake, it did not feel like it normally does. it was much more difficult to push the brake. i was really scared and almost had an accident. i was somehow able to coax my car to the side of the road. i turned the car off, and turned it back on. i fully pushed the clutch in with my left foot, but was unable to moved the gear shift from neutral into any of the gears (1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th, or reverse). i turned the car off again, at this point i took my foot off the clutch and was able to freely more the gear shift into any of the gears. something is tremendously wrong with this car. if this had happened to me on the highway i could have been seriously injured. the dealer has said that the clutch, bearings, and pressure plate needs to be replaced. my concern is that this may happen again to me if the dealer replaces the bad parts with new ('potentially defective') parts. a recall needs to be issued. i do not want this to happen to again to me or someone else.

Reported in: SPARKS MD || Crash: N || VIN #:

FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

i was driving home on a road flat/straight road with a 50 mph speed limit. i was shifting my gears (manual) as i noticed that the light ahead was turning from red to green. i could not get the gear to grasp 3rd. moreover, the when i tried pressing the brake, it did not feel like it normally does. it was much more difficult to push the brake. i was really scared and almost had an accident. i was somehow able to coax my car to the side of the road. i turned the car off, and turned it back on. i fully pushed the clutch in with my left foot, but was unable to moved the gear shift from neutral into any of the gears (1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th, or reverse). i turned the car off again, at this point i took my foot off the clutch and was able to freely more the gear shift into any of the gears. something is tremendously wrong with this car. if this had happened to me on the highway i could have been seriously injured. the dealer has said that the clutch, bearings, and pressure plate needs to be replaced. my concern is that this may happen again to me if the dealer replaces the bad parts with new ('potentially defective') parts. a recall needs to be issued. i do not want this to happen to again to me or someone else.

Reported in: SPARKS MD || Crash: N || VIN #:

POWER TRAIN

i was driving home on a road flat/straight road with a 50 mph speed limit. i was shifting my gears (manual) as i noticed that the light ahead was turning from red to green. i could not get the gear to grasp 3rd. moreover, the when i tried pressing the brake, it did not feel like it normally does. it was much more difficult to push the brake. i was really scared and almost had an accident. i was somehow able to coax my car to the side of the road. i turned the car off, and turned it back on. i fully pushed the clutch in with my left foot, but was unable to moved the gear shift from neutral into any of the gears (1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th, or reverse). i turned the car off again, at this point i took my foot off the clutch and was able to freely more the gear shift into any of the gears. something is tremendously wrong with this car. if this had happened to me on the highway i could have been seriously injured. the dealer has said that the clutch, bearings, and pressure plate needs to be replaced. my concern is that this may happen again to me if the dealer replaces the bad parts with new ('potentially defective') parts. a recall needs to be issued. i do not want this to happen to again to me or someone else.

Reported in: SPARKS MD || Crash: N || VIN #:

POWER TRAIN

vehicle clutch failed to disengage. dealer advised customer (me) parts not under warranty and advised fiat that clutch is worn out. dealer completed the repair; customer paid $940 for repair. dealer invoice notes: "clutch pressure plate spring damage and distorted" - damaged component is not a wear-and-tear component of the clutch assembly, and has suffered catastrophic failure, not a progressive wear. fiat refuses to review and re-evaluate the case.

Reported in: PHILADELPHIA PA || Crash: N || VIN #: 3C3CFFBR9CT

STRUCTURE:BODY

tl* the contact owns a 2012 fiat 500 sport. the contact stated that while entering the highway at 20 mph, the rear roof wing became detached from the vehicle and flew into incoming traffic. both the manufacturer and the dealer were unwilling to remedy the failure. the approximate failure mileage was 14,000.

Reported in: WEST HOLLYWOOD CA || Crash: N || VIN #: 3C3CFFBR4CT

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

i experienced unintended acceleration twice this week. the first incident took place on january 31, 2014. the other was february 1, 2014. both incidents took place at low speeds. basically as i was coming to a stop, the car just accelerated out of control. i was under 5mph on both incidents. what it feels like is as i am coming to a slow down the transmission does not go down in gear and just thrusts and takes off. i ran into a hedge in the parking lot on the february 1st incident. i was able to apply the brakes, but not in time to avoid the collision with the hedge. i did not have my foot on, or near the accelerator. both times my foot was on the brake.

Reported in: GRANADA HILLS CA || Crash: N || VIN #: 1G1ZC5E19BF

POWER TRAIN

2012 fiat 500 clutch went out as we were nearing railroad tracks. we could not get auto into any gear and had to coast over the tracks and into our neighborhood. we had it towed to the dealer for service. they stated it was a worn clutch even though we had less than 30,000 miles. we asked them to investigate if it were faulty parts. they stated ours was the only known case. we found many other cases on the internet. we could have hurt or killed, especially if it had happened while we were in the freeway fast lane. fiat paid for our parts, and we paid for the labor. they eventually agreed to reimburse us for the labor "as a gesture of goodwill". we are waiting for the check. we are still concerned about the safety of these parts in other cars, and about the safety of our replaced parts.

Reported in: PALMDALE CA || Crash: N || VIN #: 3C3CFFAR2CT

POWER TRAIN

tl* the contact owns a 2012 fiat 500. the contact stated that while driving 10 mph, she depressed the clutch but it became jammed and the vehicle became stuck in second gear. the vehicle was towed to a dealer, who inspected the vehicle and stated that the manual transmission clutch disc failed and needed to be replaced. the vehicle was not repaired. the manufacturer was notified of the failure. the failure mileage was 44,200.

Reported in: MILLVILLE MA || Crash: N || VIN #: 3C3CFFAR1CT

SEATS

i'm a police officer that investigated a crash involving a ford f150 p/u traveling approximately 35-40 mph; rear ending, straight on, a 2012 fiat 500c that was stopped waiting to make a turn. upon impact both front seats in the fiat completely reclined and twisted outward to the extent the seats could not return to the upright position. the outward sides of the seat backs were wedge against the "b" pillar. leg injuries would have been likely if there were back seat passengers.

Reported in: OLATHE KS || Crash: Y || VIN #: 3C3CFFDR3CT

ENGINE

the vehicle "pops" out of 5th gear at highway speeds of 60mph or higher. the tachometer goes into the red and the car slows down in traffic or on a hill until placed into gear again.

Reported in: N LAS VEGAS NV || Crash: N || VIN #: 3C3CFFBR1CT

POWER TRAIN

the vehicle "pops" out of 5th gear at highway speeds of 60mph or higher. the tachometer goes into the red and the car slows down in traffic or on a hill until placed into gear again.

Reported in: N LAS VEGAS NV || Crash: N || VIN #: 3C3CFFBR1CT

EXTERIOR LIGHTING

on three separate occasions, while driving at highway speeds at night, i have had the headlights fail! suddenly just go dark! each time, it happened when i operated a window switch. the outage each time was short, the headlights would come back on within seconds [though it seemed longer]. the service guys at the dealership haven't been able to solve it, no idea why it happened.

Reported in: SHERMAN TX || Crash: N || VIN #: 3C3CFFAR9CT

POWER TRAIN

driving home during rush hour traffic, came to a stop at a red light. clutch failed, could not engage any gear. was able to get vehicle out of traffic and towed to service station. fiat claiming that it is a worne clutch after 27,000 miles. will only support clutch for first 12,000 miles. it's good my children were not in the car or this would have been a seriously dangerous situation

Reported in: LITTLETON CO || Crash: N || VIN #: 3C3CFFAR7CT

ENGINE

driving home during rush hour traffic, came to a stop at a red light. clutch failed, could not engage any gear. was able to get vehicle out of traffic and towed to service station. fiat claiming that it is a worne clutch after 27,000 miles. will only support clutch for first 12,000 miles. it's good my children were not in the car or this would have been a seriously dangerous situation

Reported in: LITTLETON CO || Crash: N || VIN #: 3C3CFFAR7CT

ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL

the esc button will not turn off esc. normally this isnt an issue, but when i am stuck in snow it would help to turn esc off. the owners manual even suggests this. my button will not disable esc some times. the button works intermittently. the dealer has inspected it multiple times. the "esc off" light should illuminate when it is really off, but this doesnt happen.

Reported in: COON RAPIDS MN || Crash: N || VIN #: 3C3CFFAR7CT

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

periodically the starter will not engage. it does a whine as though the starter on the vehicle is a starter that is going out. i took it back to butler fiat in indianapolis, in on april 1st , as the problem became worse and worse. they replaced the starter under warranty but it started doing the same thing less than two weeks after replacement. something was mentioned at the time about faulty bolt or a part in the starter causing a malfunction. if anyone has ever had a starter go out in a car it is the same sound when the rotary does not engage and you have to make a second attempt to start the car. my vehicle still has less than 13,000 miles on it and i need the problem fixed.

Reported in: INDIANAPOLIS IN || Crash: N || VIN #: 3C3CFFAR7CT

STEERING

pulling away from a stop light under light acceration, multiple warning lights came on including "esc disabled" and multiple light warnings for the gearbox, the steering, electronic throttle control, general malfunction light, esc off light, and esc malfunction light, and lost power steering, almost causing an accident while trying to get the car off the road. the car was shut off and restarted immediately with no change. after letting the car sit for a half-hour, the car was restarted and steering was restored and no warning light were on. the vehicle was driven home and parked until it was towed to the dealership. they drove the car over 50 miles and were unable to repeat the incident or identify the problem so they released the unrepaired vehicle to the owner.

Reported in: CENTRAL POINT OR || Crash: N || VIN #: 3C3CFFBR1CT

ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL

pulling away from a stop light under light acceration, multiple warning lights came on including "esc disabled" and multiple light warnings for the gearbox, the steering, electronic throttle control, general malfunction light, esc off light, and esc malfunction light, and lost power steering, almost causing an accident while trying to get the car off the road. the car was shut off and restarted immediately with no change. after letting the car sit for a half-hour, the car was restarted and steering was restored and no warning light were on. the vehicle was driven home and parked until it was towed to the dealership. they drove the car over 50 miles and were unable to repeat the incident or identify the problem so they released the unrepaired vehicle to the owner.

Reported in: CENTRAL POINT OR || Crash: N || VIN #: 3C3CFFBR1CT

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

pulling away from a stop light under light acceration, multiple warning lights came on including "esc disabled" and multiple light warnings for the gearbox, the steering, electronic throttle control, general malfunction light, esc off light, and esc malfunction light, and lost power steering, almost causing an accident while trying to get the car off the road. the car was shut off and restarted immediately with no change. after letting the car sit for a half-hour, the car was restarted and steering was restored and no warning light were on. the vehicle was driven home and parked until it was towed to the dealership. they drove the car over 50 miles and were unable to repeat the incident or identify the problem so they released the unrepaired vehicle to the owner.

Reported in: CENTRAL POINT OR || Crash: N || VIN #: 3C3CFFBR1CT

SEAT BELTS

locking mechanism on driver's side seat belt failed. buckle popped open and cannot be locked. must use passenger side locking mechanism in order to protect driver. if two passengers are in the front seat, only one can be protected due to this failure. locking mechanism appears to be jammed or locked up and will not "click" when seat belt tongue is inserted per factory specifications. this is a dangerous defect and manufacturer states cannot fix until "parts are available", estimated november 2014.

Reported in: SIOUX FALLS SD || Crash: N || VIN #: 3C3CFFBRXCT

POWER TRAIN:CLUTCH ASSEMBLY

tl* the contact owns a 2012 fiat 500. the contact stated that the clutch failed. the vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where the technician diagnosed that the clutch was burned and needed to be replaced. the vehicle was not repaired. the manufacturer was made aware of the failure. the failure mileage was 24,000. the vin was unavailable.

Reported in: WOODLAND HILLS CA || Crash: N || VIN #:

POWER TRAIN

tl* the contact owns a 2012 fiat 500. the contact stated that the clutch failed. the vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where the technician diagnosed that the clutch was burned and needed to be replaced. the vehicle was not repaired. the manufacturer was made aware of the failure. the failure mileage was 24,000. the vin was unavailable.

Reported in: WOODLAND HILLS CA || Crash: N || VIN #:

ENGINE

2012 fiat 500. consumer writes in regards to vehicle "generic warning light" illuminated. *smd

Reported in: SPARTA GA || Crash: N || VIN #:

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

this occurred about 6 times already. when making a left or right turn the vehicle shuts off and coasts until you stop to shut it off and turn back on. the battery and oil pressure lights come on during the coasting. came very close to being hit twice due to this problem, but the dealer say they haven't heard anything like this before.

Reported in: FORT MEADE FL || Crash: Y || VIN #:

ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL

this occurred about 6 times already. when making a left or right turn the vehicle shuts off and coasts until you stop to shut it off and turn back on. the battery and oil pressure lights come on during the coasting. came very close to being hit twice due to this problem, but the dealer say they haven't heard anything like this before.

Reported in: FORT MEADE FL || Crash: Y || VIN #:

ENGINE

this occurred about 6 times already. when making a left or right turn the vehicle shuts off and coasts until you stop to shut it off and turn back on. the battery and oil pressure lights come on during the coasting. came very close to being hit twice due to this problem, but the dealer say they haven't heard anything like this before.

Reported in: FORT MEADE FL || Crash: Y || VIN #: