The Fiat 500 has proven to be incredibly popular since its release in 2008, with its retro-inspired aesthetic wrapped in a modern package, the 500 answered the call for a funky yet still relatively practical city car.

In a trend pioneered by MINI, the 500 could be personalised to one’s content with two different body styles (a hatch and cabriolet) plus a multitude of bright paint colours, alloy wheels and trim highlights in addition to a range of different decals and accessories.

Initially available with 1.2 and 1.4-litre petrol engines as well as a 1.3-litre diesel, during 2009 Fiat added a 1.2-litre fitted with a fuel-saving stop-start system, along with a 1.4-litre turbocharged petrol with 135bhp in the Abarth hot-hatchback version.

In 2010, a 0.9-litre TwinAir petrol engine was introduced, getting its name from the two-cylinder layout. Despite its small size, power was an adequate 70kW and an even more powerful version arrived in 2014. Also in 2010, the 1.3-litre Multijet diesel was given a power boost to 70kW.

The 500 is available with a manual or “automatic” transmission with the manual shifter action being relatively light and precise.

Unfortunately this is a far cry from the less-than-satisfactory Dualogic “automatic” transmission which seems to be incapable of delivering either a smooth or engaging driving experience, regardless of which variant you choose.

While fundamentally available in three trim levels (Pop, Lounge and Sport), Fiat has added numerous special editions and collaboration models since the 500 launched.

While we understand the appeal of a special or limited edition, it’s important to check exactly what kit comes with each version. For example, the recent 500 S added fairly substantial changes, including a bodykit and sporty interior add-ons.

The 500 received a mid-life facelift in 2015 with trim updates and new exterior styling, including redesigned headlights and bumpers. However, the update was very subtle and the 500 still looks similar to the original.

What goes wrong with a used Fiat 500?

• Thermostats known to fail
• Dualogic automated manual transmission can suffer from major issues
• Dualogic release bearing issues
• Door handles are known to become loose and there are reports of the chrome finish cracking and flaking off
• Reports of the washer jets failing to work properly
• Body kits and exterior trim can become loose and fall off
• Reports of badges falling off

• Windscreen wipers known to judder and shake
• Reports the panoramic roof can leak
• Cost of exterior trim can become very expensive in relation to the cost of the car
• Many reports that the plastic interior panels and trim can develop rattles and squeaks
• The blower motor for the AC system, located under the dashboard, can fail and start to produce loud squealing noises. The replacement process can be labour intensive due to the dashboard needing to be removed for its replacement and this can be expensive
• It should be noted that while the issues above are seen more regularly than others, Fiat 500s are renowned for a wide variety of problems and gremlins. There are the faultless examples out there, however many 500s will be harbouring an issue or five

Should you buy a used Fiat 500?

While a Toyota Yaris or Mazda 2 may be a far more sensible decision than buying a Fiat 500, the likes of Toyota and Mazda seem to fail at injecting the 500’s levels of life and charisma into their budget-friendly city cars.

If you require a super fun little city car that exudes Fiat 500-levels of style and character, a 500 may be your only choice.

While the Fiat 500 is far from perfect with reports of catastrophic mechanical failures, bodywork and interior trim falling apart and owners that feel betrayed by how terrible their 500 has been, there are examples that have a faultless history, exhibit zero issues and have been owned by people that have adored their little Italian runabout.

Should you buy a Fiat 500? Well… yes, but it comes with a few conditions.

Only buy a Fiat 500 if you absolutely need a 500 in your life, only if you can find one in perfect condition with a faultless service history and have it thoroughly inspected by a licensed mechanic. Also, maybe have some money put aside for when things go wrong.

Yes there are more sensible cars to buy than a Fiat 500 but if you’re genuinely considering buying a 500, chances are even the concept of sensible bores you. But please be cautious when it comes to the 500 because it appears that no two 500s are the same.