Fiat 500

The Fiat 500 models from 2010 to 2013 have an overall MOT failure rate of 29.1%, based on 86 real MOT tests from DVSA data. This figure indicates a significant risk for potential buyers, particularly when considering the known engine defects that can arise in these vehicles.

Among the top defect categories, brakes and tyres have been reported with alarming frequencies, with brakes failing in 33.42% of tests and tyres in 31.38%. While these categories are critical, engine-related issues also contribute to the overall reliability concerns of the Fiat 500. The high failure rates in these areas suggest that the vehicle may not be the most dependable choice for long-term ownership.

When examining failure rates by mileage, the statistics reveal that vehicles with 40-80k miles have a 32.6% failure rate, while those with 80-120k miles experience an even higher rate of 36.8%. In contrast, vehicles with 120k+ miles show a 0% failure rate, but this is based on only 4 tests, indicating a lack of data rather than reliability. The lower failure rate in the 0-40k category (17.6%) suggests that newer models may be less prone to defects, but the overall trend raises concerns about the vehicle's durability as it ages.

In summary, the Fiat 500 (2010-2013) presents a risk for buyers due to its notable MOT failure rates, particularly in critical areas like engine performance. Prospective buyers should weigh these statistics carefully before making a purchase decision.

Useful links

• Fiat 500 — Worst for Corrosion
• Check a Fiat 500 before you buy