ModerateAffected: 2007-201930,000–80,000 miles

Fiat 500 1.2 69bhp — Body Control Module (BCM) / Wiring Loom Failure (Hatch Wiring)

Electrical gremlins are common on the Fiat 500. The most notorious is the wiring loom snapping where it passes from the body into the boot lid/hatch.

Severity

Moderate

DIY Difficulty

Moderate

Est. Cost

£30–£200

OBD Codes

None

Component Diagram

Electrics

Typical layout and location for the Electrics assembly.

Reference Illustration

Symptoms

Boot won't open
Rear wiper turns on when you brake
Number plate lights fail
Warning lights on the dashboard for blown bulbs

Root Cause

The rubber gaiter housing the wires flexes every time the boot is opened. The wire insulation goes brittle and snaps, causing shorts.

How To Fix

Pull back the rubber boot between the roof and the tailgate.
You will likely see snapped wires.
Repair kits with highly flexible silicone wires are available (£30).
Solder and heat-shrink the new wires in. Takes 1-2 hours DIY.
Garage cost: £100-200

Estimated Repair Costs

Repair Option	Est. Cost (GBP)
DIY (parts only)	£12–£80
Independent Garage	£30–£200
Main Dealership	£48–£320

Other Faults on This Variant

Exhaust Back Box Corrosion

Minor

2007-201930,000–70,000 miles£100–£150

The mild steel exhaust back box rots through exceptionally quickly, often causing the exhaust to snap and drag on the floor.

Air Conditioning Condenser Leak (Stone Damage)

Minor

2007-201940,000–120,000 miles£250–£450

The air conditioning condenser is mounted at the very front of the cooling pack, making it highly susceptible to stone damage from the road, leading to refrigerant loss.

Front Anti-Roll Bar Drop Link Wear

Minor

2007-201930,000–80,000 miles£60–£120

The front anti-roll bar drop links wear out on heavily potholed UK roads, causing an annoying knocking sound at low speeds.

Disclaimer: Repair cost estimates are indicative and based on community data. Always get a quote from a qualified mechanic before proceeding with any repair.