Generations
312 — Second Generation
2007–2020
0.9 TwinAir, 1.2 Fire, 1.3 MultiJet, 1.4 Fire
Top issues to watch for
The most serious Fiat 500c problems ranked by severity. We track 5 known issues — here are the ones you need to know about first.
Dangerous
Suspension component excessive damage or corrosion (312)
MOT data shows the 500C fails structural suspension component tests at 635.3 times the national fleet average, with failures recorded across all mileage bands from 20,000 miles upward. This indicates premature corrosion or damage to load-bearing suspension components including control arms, subframes, and mounting points. The convertible body requires additional structural reinforcement compared to the standard 500, but the suspension mounting areas appear vulnerable to accelerated deterioration. This is classified as dangerous because compromised suspension mounting can affect vehicle stability and steering control.
What happens if ignoredSeverely corroded or damaged suspension mounting points can lead to suspension component detachment, loss of steering control, or wheel detachment while driving. Depending on the extent of structural damage, repair may require welding work, subframe replacement, or in extreme cases may be uneconomical. Typical repair costs range from £500-2000 depending on which components are affected.
Independent garage
£500–£1,500
Specialist
£600–£1,800
Main dealer
£800–£2,500
Parts only
£200–£800
Major
Suspension bush excessive wear (312)
MOT data shows shock absorber bushes failing at 635.3 times the national fleet average, with 1,165 recorded failures across all engine variants. The failures appear across the entire mileage range including cars under 20,000 miles, indicating a fundamental design or material quality issue with the suspension bushes. This affects ride quality, handling precision, and can accelerate wear on other suspension components including shock absorbers and springs. The problem appears universal across petrol and diesel variants.
What happens if ignoredWorn suspension bushes degrade ride quality, handling, and steering precision. They accelerate wear on shock absorbers, springs, and tyres due to poor suspension geometry. While not immediately dangerous, severely worn bushes can lead to MOT failure and poor vehicle stability. Replacement typically involves multiple bushes to restore proper suspension function.
Independent garage
£200–£500
Specialist
£250–£600
Main dealer
£400–£800
Parts only
£80–£200
Major
Spring component fracture (312)
MOT data shows spring or spring component failures at 635.3 times the national fleet average, with 1,165 recorded failures affecting all engine variants including cars under 20,000 miles. This indicates a systematic weakness in the coil spring design or material specification. Fractured springs affect vehicle ride height, handling, and can cause damage to tyres or bodywork if a spring end detaches. The high failure rate at low mileages suggests manufacturing defects rather than normal wear.
What happens if ignoredA fractured coil spring affects ride quality, vehicle stability, and tyre wear patterns. In severe cases, a completely detached spring end can damage the tyre sidewall, brake lines, or bodywork. The car should not be driven with a confirmed broken spring as handling becomes unpredictable. Spring replacement typically requires both sides to be changed to maintain even ride height and handling balance.
Independent garage
£180–£400
Specialist
£220–£450
Main dealer
£300–£600
Parts only
£60–£150
Major
TwinAir 0.9L engine reliability concerns (312)
The two-cylinder TwinAir 0.9L engine uses advanced technology including MultiAir valve control and high turbocharger boost to extract significant power from a small displacement. Owner forums and specialist mechanics report higher than expected failure rates for timing components, oil system problems, and internal wear patterns compared to the conventional 1.2L Fire engine. The MultiAir system requires precise oil pressure control and is sensitive to oil quality and service intervals. Engine rebuilds are often uneconomical relative to the car's value.
What happens if ignoredTwinAir engine failures often involve expensive internal components including timing system, turbocharger, or MultiAir valve control system. Repair costs frequently exceed £3,000-5,000 and may approach the vehicle's value. The complexity of the engine design means diagnosis and repair require specialist knowledge. A failed TwinAir engine is often replaced rather than rebuilt.
Specialist
£2,500–£4,500
Main dealer
£3,500–£6,000
Parts only
£1,500–£3,000
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 Fiat 500c fails at a significantly higher rate than the average car.
Suspension component damaged or corroded
Suspension · 100-120k miles
MOT failure rate: 51x the fleet average
Sample: 1,561 tests
Body panel damage
Bodywork · 40-60k miles
MOT failure rate: 30x the fleet average
Sample: 10,014 tests
Axle or kingpin wear
Suspension · 40-60k miles
MOT failure rate: 29x the fleet average
Sample: 14,794 tests
Stop lamp with a multiple light source up to 1/...
Lights & Electrics · 120-150k miles
MOT failure rate: 26x the fleet average
Sample: 456 tests
Light unit fault
Lights & Electrics · 40-60k miles
MOT failure rate: 24x the fleet average
Sample: 9,115 tests
ABS fault
Suspension · 20-40k miles
MOT failure rate: 23x the fleet average
Sample: 32,251 tests
Buying a Fiat 500c?
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Related
Fiat 500c reliability FAQs
What are the most common problems with the Fiat 500c?
The Fiat 500c has 5 known issues across 3 severity levels. The most serious are: Suspension component excessive damage or corrosion (312).
Is the Fiat 500c reliable?
The Fiat 500c has 1 dangerous and 3 major known issues. Most can be avoided with a thorough pre-purchase check and full service history.
How much does it cost to fix Fiat 500c problems?
Repair costs range widely. The most significant issue (Suspension component excessive damage or corrosion (312)) costs £500–£1,500 at an independent garage. Minor issues can be under £200. Always get a full inspection before buying.