The Fiat 500 may be a small car, but it is fun to drive. However, when it doesn't start, it can take the fun out of things. So what could be the cause of a Fiat 500 not starting? Not to worry, because we have done the research to help pinpoint the cause of this problem in this article!
If your Fiat 500 isn't starting, then it could be due to the following:
- Battery is dead
- Faulty alternator
- Dead key fob
- Corroded battery terminals
- Clogged fuel filter
- Bad fuel pump
- Empty gas tank
- Faulty oil pressure sensor
- Faulty timing belt
- Failed starter
- Worn spark plugs
- Blow fuse
- Dirty or clogged air filter
As you can see, there are several reasons why your Fiat 500 isn't starting. However, it can be hard to understand why these parts can cause this issue. That's why in this article, we take a closer look at each of these car parts and how they function. In addition, we will discuss the life expectancy of a Fiat 500, so keep reading!
Fiat 500 Won't Start - What Could Be Wrong?
Let's face it. Cars are complex, and sooner or later, they are going to need repairs. The Fiat 500 is no different, and even though it is small, it can have big problems.
For example, if you can't get yours to start, it could make you late for work or pick up your kids from school. So what could cause this problem? Let's take a look at each possibility in detail:
Battery is Dead
A car's battery supplies power to the electrical components within your vehicle, like your radio, lights, and other accessories.
Some of these parts are designed to run off of energy while the engine isn't running (like a clock, for example), meaning that even though you turn off your Fiat 500, some items will continue draining the battery.
Because of this, you should have the battery checked every six months to ensure that it has enough power to start your car.
Faulty Alternator
Just like a battery, an alternator supplies energy to your Fiat 500's electrical components so they can work properly when you are driving down the road or parked in your driveway.
A faulty alternator can be caused by a short or a faulty component in the charging system.
Dead Key Fob
If you own a Fiat 500, you likely use a key fob to open and start your vehicle. However, if this small electronic device's battery has died, you won't be able to use it.
Fortunately, most key fobs can be replaced at a low cost regardless of which brand you have.
Corroded Battery Terminals
If your battery terminals are corroded, you won't get power over the rest of your vehicle from your battery.
Corroded terminals can be caused by moisture getting inside the battery or metal pieces breaking off and damaging the connections through which electricity flows.
Clogged Fuel Filter
A clogged fuel filter can prevent gas from reaching your engine's carburetor or fuel injectors.
This could cause your Fiat 500 not to start, but it may also cause poor performance while driving down the road or problems shifting gears.
Bad Fuel Pump
A bad fuel pump won't necessarily keep your car from starting, but it can cause you to shake or make noise while driving down the road.
Furthermore, if the fuel level in your tank is low and this part fails, you may end up getting stranded somewhere on the side of the road.
Empty Gas Tank
If your gas tank is empty, you won't be able to get far in your Fiat 500. This problem can usually be fixed by adding a little bit of fuel and some new lubricant into the gas tank, but it may be time for a replacement if that doesn't work.
Faulty Oil Pressure Sensor
Your Fiat 500's oil sensor measures the oil level within your vehicle to ensure that everything is running smoothly. If it fails, you may not be able to start your car or continue driving down the road safely.
Faulty Timing Belt
A timing belt is responsible for turning the camshaft inside your Fiat 500's engine while adjusting the valves so that everything runs properly.
If this part breaks, then you may not be able to get your car to start at all.
Failed Starter
A failed starter is one of the most common reasons why your Fiat 500 won't start. However, this problem can be fixed with a thorough inspection and a simple replacement if necessary.
However, how long it will take to fix this issue will vary depending on whether or not you have a standard transmission or an automatic option.
Worn Spark Plugs
Your spark plugs fire to ignite the fuel in your engine. If these start to wear out, then it could cause your car not to start correctly when you turn the key in the ignition.
Blow Fuse
A blown fuse can cause your Fiat 500 not to start, and this problem is usually relatively easy to fix.
However, some wiring problems will also cause this same issue, and those can be a bit more difficult for a non-professional to solve.
Dirty or Clogged Air Filter
A clogged air filter can keep your Fiat 500 from starting because it restricts the airflow needed to allow your engine to crank.
This problem usually unsnaps and is relatively easy for a professional mechanic to fix if necessary. You can also check this yourself and clean out or replace the air filter.
Where is the battery located on a Fiat?
A battery is located near the engine of a Fiat 500. The battery will be in an enclosed compartment underneath your Fiat's hood. It should be relatively easy to access by removing some screws or bolts or other components around it to get at the battery.
There is a hood release by the pedals that you will need to pull to pop the hood to access the battery. Once the hood is open, you will see the battery to the right of the engine.
How do you jumpstart a Fiat 500?
To jumpstart a Fiat 500, you will need to follow these steps:
- First, park the two cars close enough that their bumpers are almost touching each other. Second, make sure that there is plenty of room around the area where the cars are parked.
- Pop your Fiat's hood.
- Locate the red (negative) and positive terminals and connect the coordinating cables to the battery. Sometimes connecting the red cable to a metal ground works better for connection purposes.
- Make sure the vehicle that you are using to jump the Fiat is running. If you are using a jumper box, then make sure it is turned on.
- Try to crank the car by turning the key in your Fiat's ignition or pressing the push to start button (if applicable). If it is very cold outside, you may need to let the other car run connected to the Fiat's battery to help charge it up.
- If your 500's engine still does not turn over, wait another minute and try again to start your car.
- If you still cannot get the car to start, remove the red cable and attach it to a different metal ground for better connection and repeat the process.
How do I reset my Fiat 500 battery?
To reset the Fiat 500 battery is a pretty simple process. Follow these steps to do so:
- First, open your Fiat 500 hood.
- Next, locate the battery and disconnect the negative battery terminal.
- Wait at least 20 minutes and then reconnect the negative battery terminal.
- Now, turn the ignition to the "on" position and wait at least one minute before starting the Fiat 500.
How much is an alternator for a Fiat 500?
The cost of an alternator can vary for a Fiat 500. The variables include the location of the repair, hourly labor costs, and the parts needed to do the alternator replacement.
Nonetheless, you can expect to pay anywhere between $500 and $1000 to have an alternator replacement done on a FIat 500. It never hurts to get different price quotes from a variety of shops to get the best deal!
What is the life expectancy of a Fiat 500?
The life expectancy of a Fiat 500 can vary depending on how the car is treated and maintained. However, consumers can expect on average 200,000 miles out of the small car when taken care of properly. That means if you drive on average 15,000 miles a year, then your Fiat 500 will last over 13 years!
Final Thoughts
The Fiat 500 is a great car that can be very rewarding if cared for properly. However, that doesn't mean issues like it not starting are your fault! If your Fiat 500 won't start, then begin checking the easy things, such as trying to jump the battery. If you feel like you are out of your realm of car mechanic knowledge, then contact a mobile mechanic or tow truck to get your Fiat 500 to a shop!
For more on the Fiat 500, check out these articles:
Does The Fiat 500L Have Sat Nav And Uconnect?