FIAT 500 L (2012)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 552 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
72%
Total Tests (2024)
552
Avg Mileage
70,763 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£1,540
Is the 2012 FIAT 500 L reliable?
Average reliability. Expect some repairs as it ages. That's 10 points below the national average of 82%. It falls below the FIAT brand average of 83%.
At 12 years old, 72% of FIAT 500 Ls from 2012 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 552 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 70,763 miles.
How does the 2012 FIAT 500 L compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2012 FIAT 500 L has 70,763 miles on the clock, which is below the expected 88,800 miles for a 12-year-old car. This suggests lighter use than average, which generally means less wear on major components.
Best year to buy a FIAT 500 L?
The most reliable year is the 2014 model with a 76% MOT pass rate, while the 2012 model has the lowest at 72%. Consider a different year if reliability is a priority.
How much does a 2012 FIAT 500 L cost to run?
Higher than average due to low pass rate
Based on 7,400 miles/year (UK average), current fuel prices, and repair likelihood from MOT pass rate data. Insurance not included.
FIAT 500 L by Year
Checking a specific FIAT 500 L?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2012 FIAT 500 L
The 2012 FIAT 500 L is a city car with a 875cc petrol engine. 552 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a less common model in the UK market. It sits in the bottom 90% of 2012 cars for MOT pass rates.
With an average of 70,763 miles at 12 years old, FIAT 500 L owners tend to use this car less than the typical driver.
2012 FIAT 500 L Fuel Costs
The modest 875cc petrol engine keeps fuel costs low, which is a real advantage for a city car. Expect around 50 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £955 per year at current petrol prices of 142p per litre (based on 7,400 miles per year).
What does it cost to own a 2012 FIAT 500 L?
Total estimated annual running cost is £1,540 (£128/month), broken down as £955 fuel, £30 road tax, £55 MOT, and £500 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 72% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
FIAT 500 L Reliability Trend
The FIAT 500 L has maintained consistent MOT pass rates across model years, varying by only 3 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2012 FIAT 500 L
At 12 years old, the FIAT 500 L is firmly in budget territory. Purchase prices are low, but check for rust, worn suspension bushes, and electrical gremlins. A full service history is especially valuable at this age.
Alternatives to the 2012 FIAT 500 L
If reliability is your priority, there are 4 similar cars with a higher MOT pass rate. Here are comparable petrol cars with similar engines:
- FORD FIESTA (2014) 79% pass rate (+7%) from 224,536 tests
- VOLKSWAGEN POLO (2011) 75% pass rate (+3%) from 79,721 tests
- PEUGEOT 208 (2013) 75% pass rate (+3%) from 60,179 tests
- VAUXHALL MOKKA (2014) 78% pass rate (+6%) from 57,656 tests