Fiat 500e

A systemic fault in early 500e models (up to April 2022) causes spontaneous deep discharge of the 12V starter battery. Recall 6475 (software update) fixes the problem; all earlier vehicles should have received it.

Symptoms: Vehicle suddenly not ready to start, no display, no response, all systems dead

8 vehicles (2020–2021) were recalled due to possible battery cell contamination with risk of fire. Only a very small early production contingent is affected.

Symptoms: No early warning symptoms — risk of fire in worst case

The 500e sporadically shows the message 'Charging system needs checking' without an actual fault. Often caused by incorrect charging plug sequence or software glitches.

Symptoms: Error message when charging, vehicle won't charge, warning on display

Airbag ECU fails spontaneously and triggers a cascade of warning messages. Recall for 2,893 vehicles in Germany. New part number indicates a production change.

Wiring under the driver's seat develops intermittent connections and sporadically triggers multiple warnings. Fiat offers a repair wiring kit for around 150 Euro.

DC fast charging module (CCS) fails — charging power drops to 0 kW after a few seconds. Reproducible at multiple charger types. Fiat replaces under warranty; expensive out of warranty.

The rubber buffer of the front control arm bearing detaches from its metal sleeve, causing grinding noises from around 37,000–65,000 km. Replace both sides simultaneously.

Driveshaft causes knocking noises over small surface irregularities, especially noticeable at the front axle. Diagnosis is complex, long wait times for parts possible.

Plastic clips on the side tension straps become brittle and break. The roof gets stuck at an angle and can be neither opened nor closed. Repair costs 400–2,500 Euro.

The 500e Cabrio's tailgate locks mechanically and cannot be opened. Problem often combined with roof electronics failure. Reset procedure sometimes helps, otherwise workshop required.