FIAT 500 L (2013)
Running costs, reliability data, and common problems from 3,778 real MOT tests.
Annual Cost
£1,887
£157/month
MOT Pass Rate
75%
Average
Road Tax
£195
Based on CC/year
Insurance
Grp 8-20
1242cc Petrol
Check Carefully
75% pass rate, £1887/year to run. 7 points below average.
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Annual Running Costs
~42 mpg
Based on 1242cc
Based on 7,400 miles/year (UK average), current fuel prices, and repair likelihood from MOT data. Insurance not included.
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Reliability Verdict
Average reliability. Expect some repairs as it ages. That's 7 points below the national average of 82%. It falls below the FIAT brand average of 83%.
At 13 years old, 75% of FIAT 500 Ls from 2013 passed their MOT first time in 2026. That's based on 3,778 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 80,420 miles.
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How Does It Compare?
Mileage Analysis
80,420
Average miles
96,200
Expected for age
The average 2013 FIAT 500 L has 80,420 miles on the clock, which is in line with the expected 96,200 miles for a 13-year-old car, suggesting normal everyday use.
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Best Year to Buy?
The most reliable year is the 2014 model with a 76% MOT pass rate, while the 2012 model has the lowest at 72%. The 2013 sits between the two at 75%.
FIAT 500 L by Year
Similar Cars to Consider
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About the 2013 FIAT 500 L
The 2013 FIAT 500 L is a small family car with a 1242cc petrol engine. 3,778 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2026, making it a reasonably common sight on UK roads. It sits in the bottom 84% of 2013 cars for MOT pass rates.
With an average of 80,420 miles at 13 years old, FIAT 500 L owners drive about as much as the UK average.
2013 FIAT 500 L Fuel Costs
The 1242cc petrol engine offers a reasonable balance between performance and economy. Expect around 42 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £1,137 per year at current petrol prices of 142p per litre (based on 7,400 miles per year).
What does it cost to own a 2013 FIAT 500 L?
Total estimated annual running cost is £1,887 (£157/month), broken down as £1137 fuel, £195 road tax, £55 MOT, and £500 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 75% 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 2013 FIAT 500 L
At 13 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. If you're flexible on year, the 2014 model has the highest pass rate at 76%.
Common Issues to Watch For
Based on the 2013 FIAT 500 L's fuel type, age, and engine size, these are the most likely problem areas to check.
Rust and Corrosion
Watch outAt 10+ years, check wheel arches, sills, subframe, and brake lines for rust. Structural corrosion is an MOT failure. Prevention is far cheaper than repair.
Suspension Bushings
Watch outRubber suspension bushes harden and crack with age, causing knocking noises and vague handling. A full refresh costs £300-£800 depending on the car.
Clutch Wear
Medium riskWith an average of 80k miles, clutch replacement may be due (typical lifespan 60,000-100,000 miles). Budget £400-£800 for a new clutch kit.
Brake Discs and Pads
Medium riskHigh-mileage cars often need brake disc replacement, not just pads. A full set of discs and pads costs £200-£500 per axle.
Service History
Low riskAlways request a full service history. Regular servicing is the single best indicator of how well a car has been maintained, regardless of mileage.
Running Costs Compared
How the 2013 FIAT 500 L stacks up against similar cars for annual running costs, insurance, and tax.
| Car | Pass Rate | Fuel/yr | Tax/yr | Insurance | Total/yr |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| FIAT 500 L(2013) | 75% | £1137 | £195 | Grp 8-20 | £1887 |
| FORD FIESTA(2015) | 81% | £955 | £30 | Grp 1-8 | £1390-£497 |
| VAUXHALL CORSA(2015) | 78% | £1137 | £30 | Grp 8-20 | £1722-£165 |
| FORD FOCUS(2013) | 78% | £1137 | £135 | Grp 12-25 | £1827-£60 |
| NISSAN QASHQAI(2015) | 81% | £1137 | £30 | Grp 8-20 | £1572-£315 |
Estimates based on 7,400 miles/year, current fuel prices, and MOT data. Insurance groups are indicative. Actual costs vary by driver, location, and usage.
Related Fiat Models
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FORD FOCUS
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