Gear Ratio DTC?s, Transmission Shift Concerns, Does Not Shift At Times, Shudders
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗2013 FIAT 500 powertrain problems
severe 77 complaints filed with NHTSA · avg repair $2,500 · see powertrain across all vehicles →
Failure mileage
Complaints
77
Recalls
0
Avg fix
$2,500
1crash
2fires
1injury
When does it fail?
Of the 77 powertrain complaints filed for the 2013 FIAT 500, here's the actual mileage breakdown — failures cluster heaviest at 0-25,000 mi.
0-25k
25-50k
50-75k
75-100k
100-125k
125-150k
150k+
Each bar shows the share of total complaints filed at that mileage range. Peak failure window highlighted. Some owners report problems earlier; some make it well past 150,000 miles symptom-free. Maintenance habits and driving conditions shift the curve as much as mileage alone.
What stands out
Powertrain accounts for 47% of every owner complaint on file for this vehicle — the dominant problem area across 10 categories tracked.
Owners have filed 77 powertrain complaints with NHTSA against this vehicle, but no formal recall covers the issue — the federal record reflects what manufacturers have admitted, not everything owners are reporting.
Is there a fix? Manufacturer service bulletins
The manufacturer has issued service bulletins covering powertrain on this vehicle — documented repair instructions, service campaigns, or warranty extensions sent to dealers. A TSB isn't a recall (it's not a free safety remedy), but it's the manufacturer acknowledging the issue and how to fix it.
Transmission Kit with Torque Converter 1. All Promaster (VF) 3.6L/62TE equipped vehicles. If the transmission bracket to the transmission case fasteners are removed during servicing, the fasteners (Part Number 06511385A$) are one-time usage. Vehicles built prior to 10/23/2015 requires Service Kit PN 68461214AA; includes Transmission Isolator PN 68264483AA, and Adaptation Bracket 68264479AA and Fastener Service Kit PN 68329056AA Vehicles built after on or after 10/23/2015 will require only the Fastener Service Kit PN 68329056AA. 2. All 3.6L/62TE equipped vehicles. If the vehicle you are repairing has a crack in the flex plate or failed pump bushing inspect and confirm that both (2) dowel pins
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗1.4L FIRE Service Engine (Normally Aspirated) This engine in this kit will contain one of 8 different production full dress engines, but labeled as component engine 68275870AA or 71AA. The received engine will be configured for use with an automatic transmission, (includes auto transmission adapter plate / flexplate) or manual transmission. (includes flywheel / clutch asm) The received engine will be configured with or without a block heater. If required, dealer to purchase/install the block heater. The included instruction sheet K6855863AB in engine kit 68275870AA is to be followed for all applications that it applies. Please see the sheet for details. In addition to the items detailed in i
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Diagnostic And System Improvements.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Diagnostic And System Improvements.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Source: NHTSA manufacturer communications. Bring the bulletin number to your dealer or shop.
The failure pattern owners describe
The 2013 Fiat 500 manual transmission shows a clear pattern of early, disabling failures. The primary culprit is clutch diaphragm spring fracture: springs break or fatigue, preventing the clutch from disengaging and locking the transmission into a single gear or neutral. Owners describe the clutch pedal falling to the floor, becoming unmovable, or the gear shifter simply refusing to budge—sometimes without any warning lights. Failures occur across the entire mileage spectrum, from under 4,000 miles to nearly 200,000.
A secondary epidemic involves shifter cables breaking, detaching, or developing worn bushings that prevent gear selection. Owners report the shifter feeling "wrong," becoming stuck mid-shift, or cable detachment while driving.
The transmission itself fails in many cases, often *after* clutch recall work: owners complete the recall repair for clutch springs, drive the car briefly, then lose power or gearbox function. One owner provided FCA documentation stating the recall can cause excessive clutch travel that damages transmission gears over time—yet the manufacturer denies any connection.
Control module (PCM, ECM, RBC, ABS) faults trigger cascading warning lights and loss of power; one owner could not shift past third gear in manual mode. A TSB exists for RBC/ABS reflash, but many dealers lack the software and certification to perform it.
Throughout these failures, Fiat issued recalls (16V302000, 19V817000) but many VINs were mysteriously excluded despite identical symptoms. Parts delays stretched months; owners paid out-of-pocket and fought for reimbursement afterward.
Same FIAT 500 powertrain reports on nearby years: 2012 · 2014
Failure modes owners describe
Clutch Diaphragm Spring Failure
Clutch diaphragm spring fractures or fatigues, preventing the clutch from disengaging and blocking gear shifts. Owners report sudden inability to shift gears, clutch pedal failure, or vehicle becoming stuck in a single gear while driving.
When: Varies widely; failures reported between 3,171 miles and 195,000 miles. Some occur early in ownership; others after years of use.
Symptoms owners cite: Unable to shift gears or vehicle stuck in one gear; Clutch pedal falls to floor, becomes stiff, or unresponsive; No warning lights before failure; Smoke from under hood; Jingling sound from engine compartment; Grinding when attempting to shift
Codes mentioned: U0001, U1201, U1487
Repairs/costs cited: Clutch assembly replacement; one owner cited $1,748 repair cost. Recall fix (S34/16V302000) involved pressure plate and spring replacement but many owners report failure persists after recall repair.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: NHTSA Recalls 16V302000 (S34), 20V124, 19V817000; TSB 08-045-16 for RBC/ABS reflash. Owners report manufacturer citing VIN exclusions despite matching symptoms. Parts availability delays cited repeatedly; one owner noted only one part per week shipped to dealers. Some owners paid out-of-pocket and sought reimbursement post-repair.
Shifter Cable Failure / Detachment
Shift cable breaks, frays, or detaches from the gear shifter, preventing the transmission from engaging gears. Cable bushings wear or separate, leaving driver unable to move the gear selector into desired positions.
When: Reported at various mileages: 85,000 miles, 128,300 miles, 133,000 miles; one owner with only 19,600 miles at time of failure.
Symptoms owners cite: Gear shifter stuck or will not move into gears; Shifter feels wrong or detaches; Unable to engage reverse, 1st gear, or other specific gears; Shifter cable visibly broken or detached
Repairs/costs cited: Replacement of shifter cable or cable bushings. One owner replaced shifter cable bushing adjuster themselves after researching online. Repair costs vary; dealers and independent shops perform work. One owner paid $2,700 for used transaxle after misdiagnosis.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: NHTSA Campaign 19V817000 addresses shifter cable defect. Owners report VINs excluded from recall despite matching symptoms. Recall letter campaign 19V-817; owner cited TSB involving cable replacement. Manufacturer directed some owners to dealer diagnostics to prove defect before considering recall eligibility or reimbursement.
Transmission / Transaxle Failure (Manual)
Manual transmission or transaxle loses ability to engage gears, shifts hard, or fails to move vehicle after gear is selected. Some failures follow clutch recall repair, suggesting cascade defect.
When: Reported at 19,600 miles, 40,000 miles, 59,000 miles, and higher mileages. Multiple failures within same vehicle reported after recall work.
Symptoms owners cite: Only certain gears available (e.g., 2nd and 4th only); Loud grinding when shifting; Transmission shifts hard or refuses to shift; Vehicle stuck in neutral and rolls or cannot move; Loss of motive power after shifting into drive
Repairs/costs cited: Full transaxle replacement; one owner cited $2,700 estimate for used transaxle (Abarth unit installed). Owners report technicians stating transmission failure unrelated to clutch recall work, though internal documentation suggests clutch defects cause excess travel damaging transmission.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: No official recall for transmission failure, though owners cite internal FCA documentation linking excessive clutch travel (from S34 recall issue) to transmission damage. Manufacturer denied warranty coverage or assistance in multiple cases. One dealer held vehicle 30 days, threatened lien, charged $1,748 for repair.
Gear Shifter Mechanical Failure
Manual gear shifter becomes stuck, seized, or fractures. Aftermarket short shifter kit reported to break in half. Shifter loses mechanical integrity, preventing gear engagement.
When: At traffic light, while driving in traffic, at low speeds in parking situations. One aftermarket shifter failed at approximately 5 mph.
Symptoms owners cite: Gear shifter stuck or seized in neutral or one gear; Shifter moves in circular motion making it impossible to engage gears; Shifter visibly fractured or broken in half; Button or reset mechanism required to unstick shifter
Repairs/costs cited: Shifter cable bushing adjustment or replacement; one owner manually reset with button after online research and replaced bushing adjuster. Aftermarket short shifter replaced with OEM part.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: NHTSA Campaign 19V817000 (Power Train). Recall issued on aftermarket shifter kit. Some owners excluded from recall despite matching symptoms; directed to dealer diagnostics or online research for temporary fixes.
PCM / ECM / BCM Electrical Control Failure
Engine or transmission control modules fail, triggering multiple warning lights, loss of power, inability to read diagnostic codes, rough idling, misfires, or transmission limp-mode. RBC (regenerative braking control), ESC, and ABS modules malfunction intermittently.
When: Reported within months of ownership (one case 2–3 months after purchase); also at 81,200 miles and other mileages.
Symptoms owners cite: Check engine light illuminated; ESC, RBC, ABS, and hill assist warning lights; Loss of power or inability to accelerate; Vehicle stalls or goes into 'propulsion system service' error mode; Rough idling and cylinder misfires; OBD2 scanner cannot read fault codes or codes clear then recur; Transmission light comes on, transmission tries to stall
Codes mentioned: U0001, U1201, U1487
Repairs/costs cited: TSB 08-045-16 specifies RBC and ABS modules require reflash with WiTech software. One owner diagnosed need for PCM/ECM replacement but vehicle was not repaired. One dealer unable to diagnose after spark plug change. Engine compression issue (no compression in cam 2) also reported.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: TSB 08-045-16 from April 2016 addresses RBC/ABS reflash. FCA support line reported no solution available; directed owner to dealer. Recall 15V291000 (Powertrain) may apply but not confirmed in narratives. Local dealers in some areas lack 500E certification or WiTech equipment, forcing owners to travel 100+ miles for repair.
Oil Pressure / Coolant Leak (Secondary to Transmission Failure)
Oil pressure warning indicator illuminates; white smoke from engine; no oil present despite recent oil change. Often occurs in conjunction with clutch or transmission failure, suggesting cascade defect or fluid leak during transmission work.
When: Reported at 47,263 miles; concurrent with clutch pedal failure.
Symptoms owners cite: Oil pressure warning light illuminated; Service engine warning light; White smoke from engine; No oil in vehicle despite recent oil change; Strong vibration from clutch pedal
Repairs/costs cited: No repair completed in reported case. Mechanic suspected transfer plate or oil system issue concurrent with clutch failure.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: None reported. Manufacturer not notified in one case.
Synthesized from 77 NHTSA owner complaints — unverified consumer allegations, summarized for patterns. The verbatim filings appear below.
What owners are reporting 9 most recent
Tl* the contact owns a 2013 Fiat 500. The contact stated while driving at approximately 30 MPH, the vehicle stalled with several unknown warning lights flickering on the instrument panel. The contact had the vehicle towed to his residence where an independent mechanic diagnosed the vehicle. The contact was informed that the PCM and ECM needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The…
2013 Fiat 500. Consumer writes in regards to replacement parts not available to repair recall notice 16v-302. *smd the dealer informed the consumer, the pedal assembly was available. However, the clutch was not available. The dealer stated they would not be performing any recalls, until the beginning of the new year. *jb
Tl* the contact owns a 2013 Fiat 500. The contact received notification of NHTSA campaign number: 16v302000 (power train) and stated that the part was not available within a reasonable time frame to schedule the recall repair. The two dealers contacted did not give a specific date for when the part would become available. The manufacturer could not provide an estimated date for when the vehicle…
My vehicle is experiencing the exact problem described in recall 16v302000 so I contacted Fiat. They will not repair the transmission because my VIN is not registered as an effected vehicle. I have on more than one occasion run into problems shifting, the car would physically not go into gear until a downshift first occurred. This has caused drastic slowdowns while driving in traffic.
I was stopped, waiting for a green light in moderate morning traffic; my car was working properly. The light changed, I moved ... Could not engage any gears other than first and reverse. I was able to pull into a small business mall; only 1st and rev. I called for aaa, I was not that far from the dealer from whom I purchased this used Fiat in january 2017- approximate mileage 19,600 in that…
The contact owns a 2013 Fiat 500. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 16V302000 (Power Train) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated while driving at various speeds and depressing the accelerator pedal, the RPM failed to exceed 2,500 RPM. The contact stated that upon applying added pressure to the accelerator pedal, the RPMs…
The contact owns a 2013 Fiat 500. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 16V302000 (POWER TRAIN); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The contact stated while driving approximately 30 MPH, the clutch pedal was…
Tl* the contact owns a 2013 Fiat 500. The contact received notification of NHTSA campaign number: 16v302000 (power train); however, the part to do the repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.
The contact owns a 2013 Fiat 500. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the clutch was depressed; however, the vehicle failed to stop as intended. The contact stated that there was a jingling sound coming from the engine compartment. In addition, the contact stated that while the clutch was depressed, the vehicle jerked and then rolled forward. The contact stated that…
Had powertrain trouble with your 2013 FIAT 500?
File a complaint with NHTSA → It's free, official, and how every report above got here — owner filings are the federal safety record this page is built on.
Common questions
How serious is the powertrain problem on the 2013 FIAT 500?
It's a meaningful issue. 77 complaints have been filed and the failure mode causes operational problems for owners. Repairs average $2,500.
At what mileage does the powertrain typically fail?
Across the 46 complaints that reported odometer mileage, most powertrain failures cluster between 29,910 and 89,000 miles, with the median around 67,000. A quarter of owners report trouble before 29,910; a quarter make it past 89,000. Maintenance history matters more than the odometer alone — this is the reported failure window, not a guarantee.
What does it cost to fix?
Independent shops typically charge around $2,500 for powertrain repairs on this vehicle. Dealer pricing tends to run 20-40% higher. The exact figure depends on the specific failure mode, parts availability, and your local labor rates. If you're outside factory warranty, an extended service contract often covers this category.
Are there any recalls related to powertrain?
No active recalls currently cover powertrain issues on this vehicle. The complaints filed represent owner-reported failures that haven't risen to the level of a manufacturer-issued recall — but they're still worth knowing about before you buy or budget for repairs.
Related
Complaint and recall data sourced from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)
public records database. Verify the raw federal record at
nhtsa.gov/vehicle/2013/FIAT/500.
Severity ratings are derived from reported crashes, fires, injuries, and fatalities. Repair cost estimates are
independent-shop national averages and may differ in your area. Some links on this page are affiliate links.