Generations
595 — Abarth 595 (Fiat 500 Abarth)
2008–2022
1.4 T-Jet MultiAir Turbo
Top issues to watch for
The most serious Abarth 595 problems ranked by severity. We track 5 known issues — here are the ones you need to know about first.
Major
Front suspension bush and joint wear
The Abarth 595 uses firmer suspension bushes than the standard Fiat 500 to handle increased performance, but these wear prematurely under performance driving conditions. MOT data shows suspension pin, bush and joint failures at 18.8 times the fleet average, with over 6,000 recorded failures. The issue peaks at 20-40k miles, suggesting the performance bushes are not suited to UK road conditions. Front lower arm bushes and anti-roll bar links are most commonly affected.
What happens if ignoredWorn suspension components affect handling precision and safety, particularly important on a performance car. MOT failure is certain once wear exceeds limits. Complete front suspension refresh typically costs £400-800 depending on which components need replacement. Continued driving risks further damage to adjacent components.
Independent garage
£150–£400
Specialist
£200–£600
Main dealer
£300–£800
Parts only
£80–£300
Major
Front shock absorber bush wear
The Abarth 595 shock absorber top mounts use performance-oriented bushes that wear significantly faster than standard Fiat 500 components. MOT data shows failures at 16.3 times the fleet average with nearly 5,000 recorded failures. The firmer bushes transmit more road shock to improve handling response but deteriorate rapidly, particularly the rubber-to-metal bonding. This is a separate issue from the general suspension bush wear affecting lower arms and links.
What happens if ignoredFailed shock absorber bushes affect ride quality and handling precision. The car will fail its MOT test and may develop accelerated tyre wear due to poor wheel alignment. Replacement typically requires specialist spring compressor tools. Costs range from £200-500 per side including labour.
Independent garage
£200–£400
Specialist
£250–£500
Main dealer
£350–£650
Parts only
£50–£150
Major
Front wheel bearing failure
The Abarth 595 front wheel bearings fail at 6.7 times the national fleet average according to MOT data, with over 1,000 recorded failures. The increased performance and wider tyres fitted to Abarth models place additional stress on the wheel bearing assemblies compared to standard Fiat 500s. Failure typically occurs between 40-80k miles and presents as roughness, play, or grinding noise from the affected wheel. The bearings are sealed units requiring complete hub replacement.
What happens if ignoredA failed wheel bearing can seize completely causing loss of vehicle control, or the wheel can become detached in extreme cases. The car will fail its MOT test for excessive bearing play or roughness. Complete hub assembly replacement is required, typically costing £300-500 per side including labour.
Independent garage
£250–£400
Specialist
£300–£500
Main dealer
£400–£650
Parts only
£100–£200
Major
Turbocharger failure
The 1.4 T-Jet turbocharger in the Abarth 595 is known for premature failure, particularly the wastegate actuator and oil seal deterioration. The small turbocharger operates at high boost levels and temperatures in performance applications, leading to accelerated wear of internal components. Failure symptoms include loss of power, excessive oil consumption, blue smoke from the exhaust, and turbo whine or grinding noises. The issue is widely documented on Abarth owner forums and specialist workshops.
What happens if ignoredComplete turbo failure will leave the car significantly underpowered and potentially cause engine damage from oil starvation or contamination. A replacement turbocharger typically costs £800-1500 plus labour. Continued driving with a failing turbo risks catastrophic engine damage from metal debris or oil loss.
Independent garage
£800–£1,200
Specialist
£1,000–£1,500
Main dealer
£1,200–£2,000
Parts only
£500–£1,000
1 more known issues tracked
Including wear items, electrical niggles, and generation-specific problems. Check a specific car to see which issues apply to its age and mileage.
Check a specific car →MOT failure hotspots
Based on DVSA MOT test data. These are the items where the Abarth 595 fails at a significantly higher rate than the average car.
Exhaust system damage
Bodywork · 20-40k miles
MOT failure rate: 43x the fleet average
Sample: 35,606 tests
Emissions failure
Exhaust & Emissions · 40-60k miles
MOT failure rate: 36x the fleet average
Sample: 8,992 tests
Headlight fault
Lights & Electrics · 60-80k miles
MOT failure rate: 30x the fleet average
Sample: 2,510 tests
Body panel damage
Bodywork · 20-40k miles
MOT failure rate: 28x the fleet average
Sample: 30,675 tests
Cable, rod or joint insecure
Brakes · 20-40k miles
MOT failure rate: 22x the fleet average
Sample: 20,704 tests
Suspension pin, bush or joint worn
Suspension · 20-40k miles
MOT failure rate: 19x the fleet average
Sample: 35,606 tests
Buying a Abarth 595?
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Related
Abarth 595 reliability FAQs
What are the most common problems with the Abarth 595?
The Abarth 595 has 5 known issues across 2 severity levels. The most common problems relate to Front suspension bush and joint wear and Front shock absorber bush wear.
Is the Abarth 595 reliable?
The Abarth 595 has 0 dangerous and 4 major known issues. No dangerous issues are tracked, which is a positive sign.
How much does it cost to fix Abarth 595 problems?
Repair costs range widely. The most significant issue (Front suspension bush and joint wear) costs £150–£400 at an independent garage. Minor issues can be under £200. Always get a full inspection before buying.