FIAT 500C (2009)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 1,717 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
72%
Total Tests (2024)
1,717
Avg Mileage
78,611 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£1,722
Is the 2009 FIAT 500C 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 15 years old, 72% of FIAT 500Cs from 2009 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 1,717 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 78,611 miles.
How does the 2009 FIAT 500C compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2009 FIAT 500C has 78,611 miles on the clock, which is below the expected 111,000 miles for a 15-year-old car. This suggests lighter use than average, which generally means less wear on major components.
Best year to buy a FIAT 500C?
The most reliable year is the 2018 model with a 88% MOT pass rate, while the 2009 model has the lowest at 72%. Consider a different year if reliability is a priority.
How much does a 2009 FIAT 500C 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 500C by Year
Checking a specific FIAT 500C?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2009 FIAT 500C
The 2009 FIAT 500C is a small family car with a 1242cc petrol engine. 1,717 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a reasonably common sight on UK roads. Among all cars from 2009, the average MOT pass rate is 75%, and this model falls short of that benchmark.
With an average of 78,611 miles at 15 years old, FIAT 500C owners tend to use this car less than the typical driver.
2009 FIAT 500C 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 2009 FIAT 500C?
Total estimated annual running cost is £1,722 (£144/month), broken down as £1137 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 500C Reliability Trend
Newer FIAT 500Cs show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 7 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2009 FIAT 500C
At 15 years old, the FIAT 500C 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 2009 FIAT 500C
If reliability is your priority, there are 3 similar cars with a higher MOT pass rate. Here are comparable petrol cars with similar engines:
- FORD FOCUS (2011) 75% pass rate (+3%) from 115,331 tests
- VAUXHALL CORSA (2011) 75% pass rate (+3%) from 111,868 tests
- FORD FIESTA (2008) 72% pass rate (same) from 109,443 tests
- VOLKSWAGEN POLO (2011) 75% pass rate (+3%) from 79,721 tests