Used 2015 FIAT 500L Consumer Reviews

Worst mistake of my life

I traded in a reliable Rav4 for this piece of crap. For the first few months, the car worked well, aside from a few recall issues. After I'd had it for 6 months, the problems really started to surface. The check engine light kept coming on and I was taking the car to the shop nearly every other week. The transmission completely locked up at one point and I had to turn the car on and off several times before it unlocked. The transmission also began to jerk much more (yes it's quirky but this is NOT a feature) while accelerating and decelerating, making stop and go traffic particularly dangerous. I'm currently pursuing lemon law on this car so I can get rid of it!

Biggest mistake EVER. Nothing but headaches

DON"T buy Fiat if you want a quality automobile, if you are looking for cute and disposable then your in the right place, but if you like a return on your investment or a car that is safe and reliable or a company that cares about quality and helps their customers .. over 8 months of dealing with their Customer Service call center, multiple weeks of car being in for service. The car loses power when accelerating leaving the driver with no ability to move the car out of busy intersections, or the ability to go at all from stops. Random occurrences so problem is hard to replicate, have had the service engine light come on - even have pictures of it on - still to be told that the computer never shows or records a problem so there fore they can do nothing. I have called and open a "case" with FCA and all I am told again and again is sorry until I can show and have a service tech with me when it happens they can't do anything. I guess my word isn't enough, all the other online complaints I have found of others having the same issue mean anything. I am told it must just be an isolated incident. I figure until they are forced, sued or have someones death on their hands from an accident the issue will never be addressed. Don't buy FIAT ! To be safe avoid any and all FIAT/Chrysler products!!

More spacious than it looks - Trekking way to go!

I had been waiting for the 2016 models to come out, but I found the body on the 2015 500L Trekking model to be a far more attractive and more Italian look. I ended up buying the 2015 500L Trekking with the "Beats" sound system with SiriusXM satellite radio, AISIN Heavy Duty 6-speed automatic transmission and U-connect touch screen. I use it for driving around San Francisco with all the hills and find it handles well. I love the headlights that move to follow your turns and curves. It is very easy to fold down the rear seats and create a spacious flat cargo area. The back seats also have the ability to recline to an almost flat bed like seat. The dual climate control keeps the front seat passengers happy and as the driver I enjoy the comfort of Power driver 4-way Lumbar Adjust. The visibility is amazing! With large windows all around and front pillar split by glass and wraparound rear windows. I also own a VW Touareg and honestly have better visibility in this Fiat. Features like the rear backup camera, rear park assist system and hands-free phone connectivity add to safety and convenience. The 17-inch wheels hold the road well even when driving on the freeway in rain. All in all for the price I paid I feel very satisfied with my new car and must admit I enjoy the compliments from those who notice it in the bright yellow and black combination. The gloss black instrument panel bezels are a beautiful upgrade included in the Urbana Trekking Collection 1.

BEST CAR I HAVE EVER DRIVEN

I have had this car for a couple of months And totally love it. Let me start by saying that it is true the first gear in the manual transmission takes a little getting use to. And no it doesn't takes off Or drive like a rocket..... But I love the styling because there is nothing like it. It is reliable, super confortable And awesome on gas. You want a testament to this.... With barely 2500 miles on it I took it on a loong road trip from WA state to Fairbanks Alaska. It drove up and down the mountain roads like it is what it was made to do. By the way I was fully loaded with suitcases, duffle bags with clothes and theblike... Average 34 MPG. Again best car ever.

Fiat 500L Easy with Sunroof.

We purchased a 500L Easy Rosso Perla with Red/Cementite Seats and sunroof at the end of 11/2014. I really enjoy the dual clutch transmission gives me the "manually feel" but I do not wear out my left knee in city traffic. The adjustability of steering column up/down in/out is excellent. The vehicle is mainly driven in the city we have done some highway driving one 3 hour trip and the ride was very comfortable. With the rear seats down I was able to get a 55 inch flat screen TV in the box with about 1'' to spare with length and width in to the 500L. The 500L has the Daytime running lights which I have enabled. The UConnect works well with my iPhone. We just returned car at lease and of 39 months. No issues with car, just recalls and normal maintenance. We still completely enjoy the vehicle. The primary reason for returning the vehicle was the local Fiat Studio closed and the next closet Studio is to far away. Otherwise we would have bought out the lease.

It's been a Great Car!

I 've had the car since November of 2013. It's a Trekking with the 6 speed auto. I love the trans as it reacts like a manual without the fuss. I've had the computer flash done, but other than that no issues. I love the car. I've read all the complaints that other customers have been having and they have not arrived with my purchase.

Fun to drive

Little beast. Fast small engine. Great fuel economy. Amazing handling and traction. Fun to drive. I love it.

Spunky little spider

Everything about the 500l somehow manages to wiggle out of your expectations and come out on top. Its outward design makes it look like a small car, until you stand next to it. You think it'll be cramped, until you sit inside it. You think that it'll be sluggish, until the turbo kicks in. It's not a race car, or an off road vehicle, or a towing monster. It's a compact SUV with design elements that don't compromise...for the most part. The first thing you'll notice is that the interior is roomy. Quite roomy. Roomy enough to make your sister's Silverado feel like a sardine tin by comparison. It's due to the efficient nature of its design; it's boxier and more upright than most other vehicles. Driving, you will be master of all you survey; there are exactly zero blind spots around this vehicle, and if you get the panoramic sunroof, you'll essentially be driving around in a glass bubble. Handling is snappy, and it turns on a dime. Highway driving is a little noisy due to the suspension, and the responsiveness of the steering will make some wary, but it's adequate once gotten used to. The combination of the European cluch with the turbo will be the largest oddity for some, as learning how to accelerate until the turbo kicks in isn't just a matter of stomping on the pedal. It's a more spirited driving experience than the average American is used to, but is rewarding once mastered. I have the Trekking trim, and can't say I regret it. The ESC (Electronic Stability Control) system gives added stability to prevent slippage during less than ideal driving conditions, but is not the same as AWD. I didn't notice any difference with it off, so I leave it on, although I will say that I have driven during heavy rain and the vehicle performed well. Ground clearance is also pleasantly high; I haven't bottomed out on any road dips like I did with my Camry. The controls are easy to reach and understand, with the exception of the fog lights and daytime running lights. The fog lights, oddly, are turned on by a button on the dash beneath the information screen, and the DRLs are turned on and off through the in-vehicle system menu, rather than the steering wheel post or some other, more obvious place. The headlights and fog lights are nicely aimed, especially the fog lights. They practically act as secondary headlights themselves. I've gotten more compliments on this car in my first month of ownership than I ever did with my much newer Murano. Its design is sharp and distinct. It took a little getting used to, but I don't regret a thing.

Has kept up over the years.

2014 500L Pop stick-shift. Very happy with my purchase. Picked her up used at 13k miles in GUAM around 2019. She came back stateside with me to Arkansas. As of April 2023, she's at 38k miles and I've only had to replace a set of brakes, tires, and a brake light. I've been getting an oil change every 6-9 months. As far as bad goes: - the interior as started to fall apart. I had to stud the headliner to keep it in place. - the gear stick material started to peel and has come off but remains entirely functional - the lift gate or hatch is VERY finicky. Sometimes on cold mornings the latch will not operate. May be sign that it should be replaced. COST UNKNOWN. Honestly, if you don't mind a somewhat odd looking car, this thing is a fantastic commuter.

2nd Review: Still going

2015 500L 6-speed manual. I now have 107,000 miles. It has been surprisingly reliable. Plugs are easy to change. Use good gas. Use good oil. Don't go to the dealer!! The dealer caused the only issue I had by not putting the air filter assembly back together correctly. My regular mechanic found it and fixed it. I've driven it across the USA in a 5000+ mile round trip and several Arizona to Texas trips. I drive 115 miles a day to and from work. I never would have thought this car would work this well.

Disappointed by this car.

2015 Fiat 500L - Started to have an ignition problem at 180k Kilometres. Brought the car to a FIAT certified mechanic (which are few and far between). The report was that he ‘thought’ he knew what the problem was and asked us to pay $3,000 to find out if he was right (this was after replacing the ignition coil a month earlier to address the same problem. In almost the same breath, the Mechanic said that he’s never seen a FIAT with so many kilometres before. Very disappointed by this car for 2 reasons: very few people know how to fix this car. Repairs and maintenance is expensive.

A Fine Fiat 500L

The Fiat now has 94k on it. I’m still very satisfied with it though some wear has begun to show. The headliner came completely loose probably do to the extreme heat in south/ central Florida and my roof being black. I use it for small jobs and the room is perfect for just about anything. The Thule racks have allowed me to carry many things for job materials. Love my FIAT

Too Much Too Soon

Service has been terrible. Had it in 6 times for the check engine light. Bluetooth is terrible. I can hear who I've called, but when the car is moving, they can barely understand what I am saying.

Stay away from Fiat 500L

I got a 2014 Fiat 500L Trekking cheap at an auction about 6 years ago. It had 10,000 miles on it I paid $6000.00. Well I just passed 46,000 miles and the transmission now says gear not available. Fiat says $8000.00 for a new transmission. I called the junk yard and they gave me $1275.00 for the car. Never again will I own a Fiat

Weird problems. No one wants to repair

Had to replace windshield wiper motor to the tune of $400. Had to replace whole light in rear back $700. Maintenance expensive. One dealer in area. Import mechanics refuse to service. Spark plug detonated and damaged valve $3500. Transmission strange. No smooth ride below 60mph. Low profile tires just plain awful. VERY EXPENSIVE CAR. Will be trading in soon. Bids from dealers in trade in low. Comments from sales people “ I was shocked how little they keep their value”. This car just awful.

I sold this nightmare

I sold this garbage car as soon as my family figured out that FIAT will not fix transmission overheating problem. One day, this garbage stopped on the road right after exiting McDonalds' drive-thru while giving out really bad smell. I could smell, my wife could smell, even the employees at the restaurant could smell the burning or melting odor. The car didn't start for 10 min. with an on-screen message like I need to put the gear to N then R then P or something. Now, it started to run again. I searched internet because it was Sunday and the FIAT dealership didn't provide any repair service. BTW, I found out that there are several issues just like me. And, more importantly, all of these reviews reported that both dealership and FIAT headquarter denied to identify and fix this issue. Only solution was just to continue driving this garbage with fear. Well next Monday, I brought this car to the dealership, and their reaction was "exactly" same with other reviews. "Can't replicate or duplicate the issue", "There is no error record on the computer" and "Drive your car home as is". Next day, I went to a Japanese car dealership and sold the garbage and bought much more reliable car. If you are rich, you can buy FIAT. But, if you wanted be frugal and smart, go to more reliable automakers. FIAT's reliability is 28th out of 28 automakers in 2015 Consumer Report.

i'm on my second one

50,000 miles in less than two years not one single problem on top of that I chipped and I abuse it every time I drive I even tow 4 x 8 trailer I pool little over 2000 b.l with no problem and yes my it's automatic it's funny The transmission doesn't belong in USA market my opinion for European is fine but since I'm European myself I like it but you just have to get usted it it's not that bad I know some people still saying fix it again Tony they need to change Tony is long gone it's not any different In liability of a Honda Toyota Subaru etc.

Another Fiat

Just upgraded my 500(Manual) after 53000 miles with only two issues - one was one headlight stopped working and Fiat replaced both, also, a problem caused by my cigarette lighter phone charger(blowing fuses). I needed more space, so, decided to upgrade to 500L(Manual) - Rosso Perla with White Roof. I am mid age person with plenty of experience as a car enthusiast. I do not buy European cars with automatic trannys, PERIOD!(bad experiences). Going to 200 miles so far and I am very happy at the least on how this puppy feels. Still have to get used to first gear(it sure is weird). MPG so far is around 29. Will post again in a few months again with more evaluation after break in period.

98,000 miles Trekkking

2014 Fiat 500L Trekking. Just had my first real problem with the car. I drive it a little hard one morning and I started to lose power. My first thought was the transmission. I was able to get it to the dealer on its own by not driving hard. Turned out to be a turbo issue. The dealer said a clip holding on the waste gate was missing. Ok so replace the clip? Not the case you cannot order just the clip according to the dealer! the turbo is $900.00 plus 5-6 hrs. installation. Not a problem I have a third party warranty and I am under the 100k by just 1600 miles! Feeling good until the company that provides the warranty said this is not covers because you lost the clip. According to them it is not the turbo that is bad it is the fact that you lost the clip. Like I removed it! After going back and forth with them they agreed to sent out an adjuster to evaluate. I will add to this based on the final result. Bottom line I really enjoy the car, it has been reliable everyone that gets in it is impressed with the room and ride. 6-28-19 car performing well. Time for front struts and going on my 3 rd set of front brakes. Overall very little issues with this car.

Quality, fun, and practical!

I owned and loved my Fiat 500L for over 5 years and the only reason I sold it was to buy something smaller.

Haven't had the issues people are describing.

Bought a 2014 Fiat 500L Trekking with 56k miles. The only thing I've had to do is change my headlight and break light. The car now has 90k miles and never any problems. I'm just now going to change the brake pads. I'm 5'11" and there is so much legroom and headroom in the front and back seats which both recline and slide back. I have a manual. I've noticed some complaints that should not be complaints. If people don't know how to use the different options of the car, then that's your fault not Fiats. Someone complained about when you're on a hill and you take your foot off the break it takes a few seconds for the break to disengage to be able to move. Not true. This is an option you can change. It's an option to not have the car immediately roll backwards when you're on a hill. You just put it in gear and go. It's a safety option for people who get nervous on hills or whatever and you can change it in the options menu on the screen. Everyone has their own experiences good and bad, mine has been great.

Dangerous Vehicle -- Do not consider buying

I purchased a 500L Trekking for my wife three weeks ago. After the first week, we drove down the road and the transmission was locked in 2nd gear. It would not shift up or down -- even with auto stick. We had to pull over and shut the car off -- then it would not restart because it was locked in second gear. We were stranded on the side of the road. We eventually made it to the dealership and they gave us a 500L loaner -- the next day the same thing happened with it! Check the Fiat 500L forums and you'll find that this is a known and common issue. There are also multiple complaints with the NHTSA. After 28 days (just before the Lemon Law kicked in) the car was returned with a supposed flash update to the transmission but the problems continued. On top of that, the car would not start in cold weather. Six months into ownership, the car was totaled with my pregnant wife and one-year old daughter on the car. Thankfully the airbags deployed (at least they worked unlike the rest of the car).

Avoid fiat 500l

The car was under warranty, but had many repairs within 30k miles. Resale was HORRIBLE.

Love my Fiat!

We have a 500 and 500L. Love them both. The 500 is SO MUCH FUN to drive & handles better than any car i have owned, especially on highway. The 500L is slso fun and more practical when carpooling.

My first Fiat Here in the States

I (we) love this car. it is fun to drive. rides smooth. Front seats are a little small if your a larger person. Going to take it on our first road trip tomorrow.

own 2014 fiat 500L trekking

After 7 years ownership and 70k on car, I am satisfied, no any major issue with a car ,regular maintenance

AWESOME CAR

Absolutely love this reliable little car. So far it’s been amazing. Runs great, gets incredible gas mileage and it’s cute too.

Love my Fiat!

Best car for road trips!

197,000 miles and still in love!

36 years and still in love! With my wife! who loves her 500 L almost as much as she loves me. Fortunately we serve different purposes so choice has not been an issue. Tires? 3 sets. Countless oil changes. Brakes, sure. No clutch or transmission emergency yet but soon, I am told so I am in the market for a replacement. Car not wife. Four people carried easily. Seat folding is a little odd but workable. Drove 850 miles, taking 3 days with a grandfather clock in the way back, the back, and the front passenger seat and my wife in the other back seat. Ride was not one where a diamond jewelry cutter could work, but it was not uncomfortable. Maybe because our other car is a Jeep Wrangler makes the comfort of the L easy to compare. Standard transmission; very easy. Gas mileage good. AC works fine. Guess we will look at used cars. Wonder what kind!

Surprise it gets better every year

Hmm, FIAT, the pope mobile. Had to have one, it was a sign back then. Got a good deal cause the car had a bad rap and I took it on only to find out that my Fiat is like a fine wine that gets better with time. The longer you have it , you will find that the ride gets better. Little maintenance and enjoyable to drive. Only major problem was the hatchback lock. There should have been a recall on this that I find that most people that own this model car has the same problems. Cheap wiring that cause a break in the hatch,. Most people had to rewire this part. Because there is no secondary way to open the hatch. I made a manual pull rope to make this happen like MacGyver, it works and I still use it, but over all, no major problems with the car. Oil change, routine maintenace and car good to go.

What’s Not To Love!!

I wanted a smaller vehicle than my Ford Edge SEL for gas milage. I've always loved European cars. I have a 2007 VW Rabbit as well, just not big enough for the grandchildren. I came across this 2015 Lounge and had to have it. It actually has more options than my Ford and I the seats are more comfortable with a lot more headroom. As for the ride, I would take it over the Ford any day. It has quite a bit of pep. I usually just drive the speed limit and get excellent gas mileage. Talk about a head turner! When I got it, it was all black. I had the roof done in a pearl white and it looks fantastic. The only downside I find is that it sometimes is difficult to find accessories. They discontinued these in 2020 which is such a shame. I’ve got 50,000 miles on it and haven’t had a problem.

Love my Fiat

I have a 2015 Fiat 500 Lounge and it's a quick and fun car to drive. I've owned Alfa's, a Lexus, an Infiniti, several Nissans and Toyotas and I love my Fiat.

This is fine vehicle for MPV B segment

I got 2015 model with 1.4 l engine multi air turbo and is doing well it's high torque motor.160hp with 182 F. Lbs its adequate for good acceleration and hwy speed .. Dual clutch transmission is little different then standard hydraulic transmission but if you understand it it's actually doing well... Fast shifting and better efficiency in overall.Car handling Is very good for tall MPV"B" fairly compact design but it feels little on heavy side. Fuel economy is good . Amazing Interior space utilization exterior design is very unique in comparison with normal MPVs .

Transmission breaks

The first transmission got a little over 40,000 miles before it had to be replaced. The new transmission went at 114,000 miles. So only about 70,000 miles on the second one. The cost to replace is in the thousands.

Very happy but disapponted

I really LOVE this car, after last year test driving several cars (soul, mazda, crv, tiguan, etc) , finally found this one to replace my old Honda crv 2000 , I quite love the space and size of the car, and its response to aceleration, my friends like the space in the back seats, is a very good looking car, the BUT is , after a week only , had an issue with the engine /oil , disapointing in a new car, things like this can happen, and will see if after the fix, car performs well and no more issues.

Great car with Trekking collection 5

Have been driving it for a week now Pros: Excellent visibility 360° Great engine with turbo Awesome seats and tech features. Cons: None yet Wish: The headlights turned on when doors unlock

Great fun, jury still out on reliability

I've had the car for 9.5 months now. I love the style, the roominess, the visibility and how much fun it is to drive. It took a bit to get used to the transmission (manual, a little odd in first gear), but now it is great. It did have a recall to repair a computer issue causing the battery to die when parked in the cold for more than 48 hours with no start, but hopefully that is resolved. Some minor electrical things are a little quirky, but no big deal. I had my VW golf prior to this for 15 years with no major issues (it had early recalls for an oxygen sensor chip so was not perfect), so reliability is my only real concern with the Fiat.

Growing on me

Blind spots! Get to know you blind spots. Sluggish acceleration. Top heavy. Love the size, the look and, so far, the reliability.

Best Decision I Ever Made

I absolutely love this car. The interior space is incredible for a car this size! It's fun to drive, fine on the highway and very well equipped. I went from a Volvo XC90 to this seeking better gas mileage and got it, averaging about 28 mpg combined city/hwy. I read up on the dual auto clutch from the information Fiat provided and have no complaints. A well equipped car that is reliable and performs. I also purchased the lifetime extended warranty for $2,500 although I read you could get it as low as $2,295.

Bad experience