10 Years with My Fiat 500 Abarth: The Ultimate Review

[@howardishere]

The weight of this car is actually around 1142kg / 2512lbs (curb weight). The gross weight of the car is 1497kg / 3300lbs.

[@AM562]

Also, you can lift up the bottom of your seat for extra storage. You pull from the back of the seat bottom where it meets the back of the seat and you should be able to hinge it forward and store stuff under there. I’m not sure if the abarth version has it, but I know the other version have it. Also, the suspension is softer on the other versions of the Fiat 500.

[@sbinnala]

@@AM562 US market cars do not have this

[@MrMrsMurder]

Hey what do you use for the camera in the back seat - is it a mount or something else? Your Abarth is just like mine (2012 Essesse) I love it! So much fun! 🚗

[@samlo7881]

Hi Howard, nice to meet you, I am considering getting a 2015 Abarth automatic, just wondering, is there any issue with the gear box, and anything that I need to be awared of the car, thanks!

[@ApxuBbI]

KZbin recommended this, and I liked it.

[@howardishere]

Thank you very much!

[@suminthar1]

Same

[@recursion.]

Different

[@heres_the_sauce]

Same

[@aaliyahlunan876]

As a young person that doesn't have a car yet, it's so nice to see a full, long term cost breakdown of the ownership and maintenance of a car. Seeing 'everybody' buy brand new luxury vehicles makes it seem like that's the 'right thing' to do. But I can't imagine the maintenance costs over time. Buying a car is more than just the upfront payments.

[@howardishere]

Ya many people just look at the surface stuff. Dig deeper and you will see a whole new world.

[@Milnoc]

A few observations from an owner of a 2015 Abarth purchased used in 2020: - Identical configuration as yours except it's a manual. I paid $11,950 plus HST with no extra fees. - Yes, the Beats Audio is crap. - You can soften the suspension by installing KYB Excel-G shocks and struts. I can now drive over railroad crossings without losing the fillings in my teeth. - Nitrogen is a scam. Use an air pump and a cheap pen style pressure gauge. - Your tire pressures are wrong. Check the label on the driver's side door frame for the correct pressure. It should be 38 lbs in the front and 32 lbs in the rear. - For your next summer tires, try Firestone Firehawk Indy 500. Very affordable and sticky! - Aftermarket rotors and pads are available. Look for Powerstop Euro-Stop. Much cheaper and just as effective. - Many OEM parts can be purchased aftermarket for a lot less such as Bosch coil packs, NGK spark plugs, and SKF bearings and hubs. - Leaky coolant connections and broken door handles are a fact of life with this car. You just have to be one step ahead of them. - I've modded my car with a short shifter, upgraded rear torsion bar, beefier side and tunnel braces, and much better strut hats. - When you eventually blow an exhaust valve, it'll be one of the two valves in cylinder #3 (diagnostic code P0303). Expect to pay some $4,500 for the repair plus HST. This will include replacing the timing belt, water pump, and tensioner which should have been replaced by now. It's a truly insane little car! I still love mine!

[@howardishere]

Thanks for all the tips! I know my tire pressure are wrong it’s front 36 and rear 32 cold but it’s now so hot outside and whenever I drive it the psi shoots up like 2-3 lol Couple of questions though do you service the car yourself or you go to a garage! And when did that exhaust valve blown on yours? Mine is at 71100km right now. Thanks again!

[@Milnoc]

@@howardishere I blew the exhaust valve at 85,450 km. The car has a tendency to try and save too much fuel to the point there could be too little fuel entering the cylinders which can burn hotter than usual and cook the exhaust valves. This is especially problematic in cylinder #3. I try to do as much work myself as I can. I have access to a DIY garage that furnishes lifts, tools, and a mechanic if you get stuck. The lift rental is $30/hour. If I might spend too much time on a series of jobs, I'll take the car to a mechanic who has plenty of experience with Fiats and can get the jobs done much faster. In fact, he did the valve job last summer. The head had to be sent to a machine shop! In spite of the heartbreaks, it's still a fun car to drive! I've yet to pay as much for the car and maintenance combined than the previous owner had paid for the car alone!

[@howardishere]

@@Milnoc It is indeed a very fun car to drive! I live in a condo and I have no access to a DIY garage nor do i know anyone lol I will keep the exhaust valve in mind, although I dont really drive the car hard.

[@BrockGrimes]

@@howardishere Nitrogen isn't a scam. It stabilizes the tire pressure differential/fluctuation due to temp change. I should know, it was taught to me as a mech. in the military. Also the reason aircraft tires are filled with nitrogen, go from freezing temps flying, to landing speed, you certainly don't want them heating up and exploding.

[@POVwithRC]

​@@BrockGrimesIt's a scam in automotive. We ain't flying military supplies. We are commuting to Walmart where a psi up or down is not mission crit.

[@southcoaster4135]

I'm in awe at how well organised you keep the car paperwork.

[@howardishere]

Kept every single invoice 👍

[@RobinCapper]

@@howardishere The first owner of my 2012 Abarth did that, I got it in 2019 and have continued the file. Have the same for my 2001 Fiat Bravo HGT but only from 2008 since I have owned it

[@CinematicTendency]

Same! 😮😂

[@desadesa]

This is one of the best car videos I've ever seen. When it puts a smile on your face... That's something every driver must experience.

[@howardishere]

Thank you glad you enjoy the video!

[@adrianguillermolenzincampo2721]

This is the best Car video I’ve Ever seen too.For sure.

[@DJTXD123]

It's really nice when people care about their cars, my dad bought a 2008 Ford focus in 2010 with 15,000 miles, he has now passed this down to me and it is sitting at 105,000 miles, 14 years in the family, going to keep it as long as I can

[@howardishere]

Good to hear! I believe if you take care of your car it will go a long way 😊

[@MehLewH]

Amen!

[@jstray2321]

As a person who has spent a ton of time in Asia and as an Abarth owner of a 2014 model, I am going to say this but I mean it in the most loving way possible, this is the most Asian car owner video ever! Aaaand it's awesome. The binder with the records and the sticky pad tabs..... classic. The commitment to the dealer to keep bringing your car back to them even after warranty just to be taken for boat loads of money by them. I hope you monetize this video and it makes up for your ~400$ pads they charged you. That would be karma setting things right. I really enjoyed this. I basically smiled through the entire thing as you described your journey and I could relate to elements of it with mine. Well done.

[@howardishere]

LOL thanks for the comment!!

[@glennwhitlock1272]

My German landlady was exactly the same.......... With the washing machine. A file with service notes.

[@kerc]

Three years ago I got a 2015 500C with less than 10K miles and I love it. It has 30K miles now and it's my daily driver. This car makes everyone smile.

[@howardishere]

True! Glad you are enjoying your car as well 😁

[@Murphys2ndLaw]

The side skirts separating isn’t from the tape failing. It’s from incorrectly lifting the car. Probably the dealers doing. If the lift pads aren’t in the correct location it causes the tops to pop out. The tape isn’t designed to hold that force.

[@howardishere]

Yea somebody mentioned that too and I think you are right. So the dealer broke it when they lift up the car 😭

[@mixedbyfiatcat]

That's correct.

[@mixedbyfiatcat]

@@howardishere if you caught it on-time, you can try press it back in place.

[@RobinCapper]

Great video. I have 2012 500 Essseesse manual (in NZ) that has done ~205,000km and love it. Have had a few suspension replacements (shocks, bump stops and bushes) but no other mechanical failures. The airbag computer died but was not too bad (~$600) to replace. I'm the second owner, first was fastidious too, and have no plans to change. A smile every time you get in to drive, priceless!

[@howardishere]

Wow 205000 km! That’s a lot and good to know you maintain it very well!

[@blub.lubber5171]

The way he described it as encouraging you to just enjoy life. That is exactly right. I overpaid for my 2013, but I love it despite all the heartache

[@howardishere]

May I ask how much did you pay for your 2013 lol

[@Joseph_yy]

I wish every car had at least one owner like you to document and review it long term, imagine how many myths and hearsay can be debunked or confirmed in this way

[@howardishere]

I wanted to make this video just because of that :)

[@Joseph_yy]

@@howardishere Yeah for me it’s the Mustang Ecoboost since it’s the next car I’m planning on buying, just as many people saying they’re very reliable as people that claims they’re not, but most of them don’t have this level of repair/ maintenance record for others to study, I’m certain there are tons of car owners/ potential buyers having the same question

[@jackpetrof9460]

I have a '13 5 speed 500 Turbo, Koni front struts and muffler deleat are only mods so far. Bought it in 2018 (with 88,000 miles!) and about to hit 100,000 soon. Except for one window regulator failing and one broken door handle( fixed it with a $10 part off Amazon) it's been quite reliable. And a blast to drive! Keep us posted, hope you keep yours another decade.

[@howardishere]

Wow and yea door handle lol I fixed mine when it was still under warranty so lucky me. The car is actually not expensive to keep (insurance and upkeep etc.) the thing is I live in an apartment building and I only have 1 parking spot so I am renting another spot to park this Fiat.

[@marcopiancatelli189]

Every 500 Abarth owner says the same: this car puts a smile on your face everytime you drive it. No matter how long you own it. That means every single cent you paid was worth it. Love from Italy.

[@howardishere]

Well worth the money :)

[@Shooterpirat]

Love the positive vibes at the end. That's the way to go my man! 😊

[@howardishere]

Thx!

[@wadekoll1442]

I have a 2012 Abarth, drive it winter and summer on MOMO tires. Koni yellow shocks and struts. 78mm torsion rod. Cross drilled and slotted rotors. Have had a few normal repairs. Great car. Winnipeg MB

[@howardishere]

I can imagine the braking is much better than stock

[@G_Ozare]

Abarth owner here. Black, Manual, 2014, no side decals identical to yours. My second one (first one totaled by a drunk driver). Well done video. What I have grown to love about my car is how they're not seen often on the roads (at least here in Socal). I almost got the WRX instead and Im glad I didn't (they're everywhere).

[@howardishere]

Yea there’s fewer of these on the road definitely.

[@dragonfang8670]

What a fantastic video, I was shocked when I looked at the number of subscribers you have - the quality and content is miles ahead of many other KZbinrs with 100x your subscriber count. I'm happy to see some people keep their cars for such a long time - most people just dump theirs after a few years to buy the next best thing. I have recently purchased my dream hatchback, brand new, and I will keep it forever!

[@howardishere]

Thank you for your kind words! I just wanted to make this video to record my experience and share with others 😁 which car did you buy?

[@dragonfang8670]

@@howardishere I am happy to provide such feedback, you deserve it! I purchased an Hyundai i30N!

[@ChrisTheDragonRider]

I'm Alberta and have a 2015 Fiat 500 Turbo, automatic, almost the same car as yours. This is a wonderful video and i'm glad to see such a passionate community around these cars all over the world. Also doesn't hurt that they turn into micro rally cars in the Canadian winter! My left rear wheel bearing went bad as well! And the right rear is going. In the future try to do them yourself! They are very easy to replace. I did mine DIY for $140 CAD. Pads and rotors too :) you got this, you can get pads and rotors done in an hour or two for a couple hundred bucks. As a fellow over-6-footer, the seating positions are so unpleasant, no matter how you set it. I am looking for a way to mod the seats to sit lower and retain the airbags+heating. I have taken out the rear seats to make a flat floor, and it's impressive how much weight you save and how clean you can make it look for very little effort+cost.

[@howardishere]

I thought about removing the rear seats as well but I have no place to store it so I just left them in lol I should’ve work on the car myself more but I live in a condo so no space :(

[@rodmix]

I have a Fiat 500 GQ (Abarth cabrio) the first one was in Argentina, those one are coming from Poland. Now the GQ from Mexico, fun car on our Ontario winter

[@howardishere]

So true

[@qiny]

Such a comprehensive video, love it!

[@howardishere]

Thank you!

[@kaeyakow]

My 14 year old fiat 500 sport died recently... He brought me everywhere. Bought a 2024 impreza, its autonatic and ugh, i miss the fiat. Im considering an abarth as a fun second vehical so i can have a manual again. Plus, fiats are fun :)

[@howardishere]

I’ve never driven a Subaru before but I think the fiats are more fun!

[@FirasKhalife-r9v]

My 2012 Euro model ( multi jet engine ) manual box is the most fun car to drive . 140hp , 160 with an RS ship . all my other cars are V8's , but the 500 is special . Reliable so far , but I only owned it for 4 months , so too early to say . Also since it' not a daily driver , chances are it'l last a bit longer . 116,000 kms on the clock so relatively normal mileage . Expansion bottle leaks ( replaced it ) and changed the timing belt, pump and pulley as a safety measure . Also did oil changes , motor mount and brake pads all round . So far so good , and the X factor when I drive it is high . The thing with Italian cars ( I owned a few ) is never to skip on maintenance . Your video is excellent and a good insight into ten years of ownership . thanks a lot :)

[@howardishere]

Good to hear you like yours so far! Are you planning to keep it for long?

[@7Fields16]

Put a smile on your face! That is it. Thanks

[@howardishere]

Thx!

[@Itsjustpinchy]

Such a mellow and good video man.

[@howardishere]

Thx!

[@john_milner]

A very comprehensive and honest, long term review of your ownership experience ... to many other reviews are just overhyped and ignore the little things ... thanks for the upload ... 👍

[@howardishere]

Thanks! I know, I just want to review it as a normal perspective. Like I know this car will be fun on the track but not that many people will track their cars

[@R1Zig]

Great video! I really enjoyed watching the way you did this. I'm in South Africa and I have a manual 2019 Abarth 1.4 T-jet which I daily. I average around 6,8 l/100km with mixed driving conditions. It has almost done 80 000 km. I usually drive the car in normal mode as the throttle response is less aggressive, which helps in peak time traffic especially. Did you know that the car produces exactly the same power whether you're in normal or sports mode? I saw this posted by a Fiat Master Technician on an Abarth forum. The main difference is basically in the throttle map. So when you give 20% input on the throttle it will open say at 40% giving the impression of a lot more power. I'm not saying this is the correct percentage, but this is how it was explained. I find that in sports mode the car makes me drive it overly aggressively and I will get between 20-50 km less range on a tank, no matter how economically I drive it. One of the biggest challenges for me with this car is to drive it sedately. It's always egging me on to go faster. 1. Heavy steering: I must say I don't have that issue. In normal mode it is super light and comfortable. It tightens and feels heavier in sports mode. 2. Broken side skirts: The broken side skirts might have been caused by lifting the car incorrectly on a car lift. I don't know if the underside rust proofing was done at the dealership or by an external company. It might have been caused by them who didn't know how to use the car's jacking points correctly, which is why it has been broken since you took delivery of the car. 3. Maintenance costs: Wow, dealership costs are insane! I was blown away by how much you spent on maintenance especially rotors and pads. The moment my car was out of warranty I looked for an independent specialist. To give you a price comparison on a major service to change the cambelt and water pump including normal service items cost me R5396 ZAR which equates (at the time of writing) to $390 Canadian. The dealership quoted me $1086 Canadian. The specialist even cleaned the oil return pipe to the turbo as those clog and starve the turbo, eventually causing it to fail. This is a common thing with Fiat/Alfa-Romeo vehicles. Dealership would never do that, unless you ask. 4. Modifications: Mine is de-catted with the standard exhaust and I have a BMC filter with BMC blow-off valve. No increase in performance. 5. Nitrogen: I agree with you, normal air works just as well. Yes you have to check your tire pressures more often - big deal! 6. Sound System: In a word - horrible, you have the Beats edition with a sub I see. Mine is worse than yours. Who needs it with that exhaust sound? 7. Water leak: never had any leaks or other problems. 8. Battery: You will always need to change after a few years, unless you maintain it correctly by putting it on a trickle charger when not driving, or getting it to a full charged condition every 6 months or so. Then they can last a very long time. 9. Door lock: Crime is country and city dependent. South Africa is crime ridden. My car's door lock has been broken twice by thieves to steal whatever is in the car. I disabled the lock from the mechanism and blanked off the keyhole for future would-be criminals. We also have anti-smash window protection which helps stop them from breaking in. 10. Sunroof: I quite like it, but agree that the material they use for the sunroof block-out is not sufficient. Still gets very hot in direct sun. 11. Things I would've liked: We could not choose arm-rests, and cruise control is not an option, which is something that is annoying for longer drives. Your car is one of those "golden buys" for anyone wanting to own an automatic Abarth. Meticulously maintained example. Well done. Apologies for a long post

[@howardishere]

No I really like to read these long comments as I can compare my experience with yours! I don’t want to modify this car but I do want a bigger brake caliper and rotors. I believe if I am to change the cam belt and water pump here it will be somewhere around $1000CAD LOL Another comment mentioned that nitrogen is a scam and I started to think it actually is. Is yours left hand drive or right hand drive? Personally I have not seen any 2018/2019 abarth here I honestly think they still sold 2018 here but 2019 I don’t think so

[@sbinnala]

Warning: long winded rant. I had my 2017 for 5 years, from August 2019 until July 2024 alongside an F80 M3 and then a C6 Corvette ZR1. I saw it all and did it all. It was the source of a lot of pain. Even bone stock, the car would hitch at 5500 rpm half the time. NOT BREAKUP, it's like the throttle was closing. I had all the supporting mods. A tune from EC took care of it, but that came with it's own issues. I went with Phase 0, with the V3 induction thing, plugs, coils, etc. I didn't need power, I wanted OEM plus. I had a 500+ hp M3 and then a 638 hp Corvette for speed. Fast forward to 2022, it starts pinging and knocking when boost hits, even at like no throttle in normal mode. I thought it was bad gas. It goes away until the next summer, 2023. All the plugs were white, O2 sensors were white. Changed everything, and changed all the turbo related stuff, it went away again. Got a tune update from EC, I updated my handheld like an idiot, and it bricked the car. Never had an issue before. I blamed the issues my car had on EC at first, but after this tune update bricked my ECU, and my dealer resurrected it in 15 minutes....that could not be further from the truth. It was okay on the stock tune at first, still with the 5500 rpm hitch, but then.........pinging when boost hit. Again. The car was gone the same week, on July 4th. Some sort of internal MultiAir or head failure was starting. I call it independence day from heartbreak. I always ran it on 93 or 94 octane. It is seriously comical how people think they know these cars better than the engineers, and they just DON'T. EC sucks now, they spread themselves too thin, they'll never take responsibility. Tork is a manchild, he's blown more engines than I can count especially in Hyundais, yells at customers. Openflash don't even bother if you have a 2015+. Some Doverlabs person has the worst torque curves I've ever seen, he wiped his entire Facebook in the past, but not before a few vids of his TOON struggling to make 13 psi surfaced. MTD or whatever they are called have horrible response times. Speedmotive has bricked a bunch of ECUs, but are probably the safest if it works. Moral of the story, this is not the platform to tune. Buy a faster more reliable car. The "community" around these cars is 95% terrible. The only cars worth buying are 2013s. 2014s take 500 years to tune, 2015+ have extra emissions trash that ruins tunes. I am honestly really bitter over the whole experience. I was irrationally attached to that thing and missed out on countless other cool cars that would have not have had these issues. Don't even get me started on the random stuff that broke. Engine mounts, axles leaking, emissions leaks, seat tilting strap thing......never needed a wheel bearing though. The clutch needed replacing at 20,000 miles despite me only doing highway driving and driving manuals all my life....

[@howardishere]

Wow good to know. Honestly I am one of those guys that don’t believe in tuning or make the car goes faster. Like you said if I want a fast car I will buy another car. I also believe almost any tuning or modifications will ruin the car in no time. I also have a Volvo V60 has 316hp and it’s much faster than my fiat. I like your story though. I am also part of the Ontario Fiat Club I. Toronto and the club is kinda like a Fiat 124 club but the people in there are really nice and really helpful 😁

[@julzcabanilla]

I bought my 2015 fiat 500 turbo for sure it’s standard 5 gearbox ,,, love it 68km driven winter and summer.in Montreal it’s super fast acceleration love it

[@howardishere]

Glad to hear!!

[@ohyesitsme]

The one thing that I take away from your video is that the dealer ripped you off for the maintenance. Love the car by the way.

[@howardishere]

I know they are expensive but I don’t know where else to go :(

[@coffeepot3123]

That's what i love about my mk4 Golf from 2003!, thick tires from factory, great seats and suspension, potholes feel very manageable. Most comfortable car i've ever driven.

[@howardishere]

Good to know! My fiat suspension is horrible lol

[@coffeepot3123]

@@howardishere You can always make the swap friend ;) Think about the future of your spine and joints!, someone told someone who told me to tell you!.

[@MrCOOKIEMONSTA4]

This was one of my favourite videos. So detailed and you are so organized and have really inspired me to try and be more organized in my life lol!

[@howardishere]

Ty!

[@MrCOOKIEMONSTA4]

@ I have yet to become organized 😂 but I’m still inspired

[@Cats_Are_Scary]

I wanted to know more about the Fiat Abarth and you delivered. Great video!

[@howardishere]

Thank you!

[@giorgiopereira6742]

I have a reg 500, bought used no turbo. It still puts a smile on my face even though it's not going anywhere fast. Also, twice ive been cut off and twice the car handled hard braking and quick steering input without drama. Ive done similar maneuvers on a gti and that wasn't good.

[@howardishere]

Glad to hear!

[@colinl5985]

Deserve more views very thorough review of the car in a real life environment.

[@howardishere]

Thank you very much? I tried to review every single aspect of the car hope you enjoyed it!

[@BAYDOS]

I love the fact that I’ve seen you driving around downtown, now you’re in my KZbin suggestions 😂😂

[@howardishere]

lol 😂 come say hi next time!

[@MercutioGC]

You are a psycho keeping all the car track record and I love it, wonderful video. Just a quick tip is to buy mishimoto hoose kit.

[@howardishere]

Thank you! I will definitely do something about the radiator hose later.

[@raymondmumford6255]

Excellent review on your car and ownership experience. I also own a later model Abarth, they are awesome to drive and make you smile 😊

[@howardishere]

Yes and it still makes me happy after all these years

[@IzzyGside961]

See how gently he closes the door at the beginning? That’s 10 years with a Fiat 500

[@howardishere]

The door is actually very heavy and it could close itself

[@IzzyGside961]

@@howardishere I have a 2013 500 Abarth also and nothing on the car was built to be moved with much force. How’s your trunk release?

[@howardishere]

Trunk release still working fine! Yours was broken?

[@IzzyGside961]

@@howardishere mine is at the working sometimes stage, they’re a common issue

[@howardishere]

I noticed the trunk release is weaker during winter but otherwise working okay

[@stevey500]

Having the manual and the auto, and also being a very seasoned manual transmission lover as myself, I do prefer the automatic version of this car. It's just so good. The programming and overall attitude is amazing. This is an undoubtably fun car. Our 3 fiat 500's have been the most reliable and painless to DIY maintain/repair of all of the stuff we've owned.

[@howardishere]

Good to know thanks!

[@wilberthruiz3622]

This video popped up and loved it ❤ great content hope to see more

[@howardishere]

Thank you! Will have more video in the future :)

[@rajivk4705]

This guy needs more sub! I love the content...

[@howardishere]

Thank you! 🙏

[@mgstation]

​@@howardishereyou can get more subscribers and make money of your channel if you post at least two videos every week.

[@saulgomez7112]

Wow that’s incredible dude ! Its super satisfying to see how you've mantained al your invoice and repair history

[@howardishere]

Thank you 😁

[@lily_pb]

i need this binder for my life recap

[@howardishere]

😂😂😂

[@chauboii]

Hello, I have the same year and model, and coolant leaks lol. A little tip regarding the radio: I like heavy bass in the music I listen to and felt the bass was lacking in my car, even with bass maxed out and mid+treb at the lowest setting. I was toying with the idea of adding a subwoofer, but that involves a bunch of other bits that I was not interested in purchasing/installing. Bluetooth has different standards with each version improving on the last. Its currently at Bluetooth 5.3. I suspected the Bluetooth version in the Fiat's head units wasn't the greatest so I tested that theory by plugging my phone into the aux port of my car and playing some EDM from Spotify. The bass was noticeable stronger and was at a level I was satisfied with. I ended buying a Bluetooth receiver with a more recent Bluetooth tech that plugs into the car so I don't need to be tethered to an AUX cable. Try playing some music through the aux cable to see if the audio sounds better

[@howardishere]

The aux huh honestly I think I never played anything through aux lol it’s either the phone usb or the cd player if it’s external source. Will give it a try!

[@jbrookk]

27:05 Exactly what I think everytime I drive my 2012 lounge. Nice video!

[@howardishere]

Thank you!

[@88N-TransportSoldier]

Your video was actually really relaxing and informative. Awesome video 5 out 5 stars. Thank you Howard

[@howardishere]

Thank you!

[@NUBBY39]

Like the armrests in yours don't have them in my 595Turismo 2016 (in the UK) also noticed your Auto shifter here in the UK we have a push button selecter for total auto sellecting A or select M for manual shift via the paddle shift on the steering wheel

[@howardishere]

I would love to try the paddle shifter! For here in NA it’s either the 5 speed manual or this 6 speed auto. I do like the extra gear to save fuel I guess lol

[@charlesclement383]

Awesome car. I have a 2012 ZERO ISSUES. LOVE IT, WILL NEVER SELL IT.

[@howardishere]

Glad you like the car as well!

[@davidhunternyc1]

It's very nice to hear that your car speaks to you. ♥

[@howardishere]

True 👍

[@arthurbynum]

🔥🔥🔥 Great video. You did a great a job of storytelling.

[@howardishere]

Ty!

[@alkzavaleta7876]

Your production is awesome 👌

[@howardishere]

Thx!

[@chriscraft77022]

i bought the one you didnt want a few months ago (manual trans with cabrio top) with 17,000 miles.. I LOVE IT SO MUCH.. but I dont daily it.. COOL VIDEO.. I LOVE THESE CARS SO MUCH.. I SUBBED.. THANK YOU FOR THE INFO

[@howardishere]

I don’t daily mine anymore either. Great to hear you love yours!

[@cliffweinan3907]

Nice video, that raspy exhaust note ! Paid for, keep it, because you are one owner who patiently maintained it. Play attention to coolant leaks because it's higher coolant pressure that older cars. Watch out when timing belt replacement due. It's good iron closed deck block, non direct injection design. This stuff not made anymore and old FIAT doesn't seem to be a Toronto theft target. There is other car value that the present used car price.

[@howardishere]

So true. Thank you!

[@G3n3ralN0ns3ns3]

Great video. Love the format and style. Thanks! I found this video through the algorithm.

[@howardishere]

Good to know! I didn’t do any advertising or anything and just let it be 😁

[@G3n3ralN0ns3ns3]

@@howardishere you did something right that resonated with at least car people.

[@cujotwentysix7519]

This is a very nicely presented and put-together video! Well done. I like it a lot. I’ve noticed a stiff suspension on my friend’s not-Abarth 500 as well

[@howardishere]

Thank you! Just imagine the abarth suspension is like so much harder lol

[@elnyoutube123]

Was it a sport model? I know the sport models had stiffer suspension and shared some components with the Abarth, but wasn't identical. I had the base model (lower than sport) with the softer suspension and I loved it more than my Abarth. It was honestly more fun around corners because you were rolling around at low speeds 😂 and it was comfortable.

[@AKARazorback]

This is so random... but it looks like you really love your purchase ever since you got it. I'm hoping to enjoy and love mine just as much when it comes in

[@howardishere]

I do love it! What year did you buy?

[@AKARazorback]

@howardishere oh, sorry for the confusion. It won't be this car, it's a very different vehicle :)

[@Hotwheel809]

KZbin knows i like the fiat 500 abarth somehow, i went with a 2017 chevy sonic 1.4t instead when i bought a new car, it was only about $4000 cheaper, fully loaded, mine was also the manual, i believe very similar cars, fellow ontarian! Absolutely love your attention to detail with car ownership, wish i was that organized with such things (i think i own too many vehicles myself to be that meticulous), but applaud your dedication to keeping track, and keeping up with the little italian bubbles quirks.

[@howardishere]

Wow good to know thanks!

[@Hello123-b7l]

Fantastic video! I found this very interesting. Thanks for doing a detailed breakdown!

[@howardishere]

Thank you! I wanted to present the video in a real life scenario, not those 0-60 and track stuff lol

[@waynechan-e9s]

Thank you for the Insightful honest review of Ownership of the Abarth😊

[@howardishere]

Thank you!

[@skyapple5414]

The way of story telling is awesome man❤❤❤❤

[@howardishere]

Thank you!! ☺️

[@xfire114]

never owned a fiat, never wanted one, never will buy one, BUT i still watched this for some reason lol also dealerships for some reason especially on breaks and rotors will overcharge the heck out of you! my dealer wanted 700 USD to replace just the front breaks and rotors when you can buy the front and back rotors with brake pads for less than 300 bucks and have a trusted mechanic install them all for less.

[@howardishere]

Yea dealerships always charge more

[@55Bentley6]

Your missing out. Fiats are great little cars and fun to drive. Especially the Abarth. I have a 2013 Abarth, standard shift rag top that's running great and has only cost me a set of tires and a battery since purchased new. Also owned a Jeep (Fiat) Renegade that I used to snow bird back and fourth from WA to AZ for four years huling a small trailer. Again, never an issue.

[@damonoriente736]

Really nice video and summary. I had a 2012 500 sport. I owned it for six and a half years. Even looking at it out the window, it made me happy. I loved it more than any car I've owned. I could be on the road, and see a Bentley, or a Porsche, and feel zero jealousy. Eventually we went to one car, and the Fiat and the other Mercedes went, and we have a B250. I can tell you that, even though we have had no problems with the Benz in six years, the basic maintenance on that car will blow away any costs that your Fiat will incur. Of course, the nitrogen thing is silly, as air is already about 80% nitrogen, so.... I'd buy another for sure, and I'm pissed that Fiat is not bringing more cars to NA or Canada.

[@howardishere]

Fiat has the 500e for 2024 here but I don’t think that will be a hit lol

[@E-Cooper]

FANTASTIC VIDEO AND STORYTELLING. LOVE IT BROTHER. ENJOY YOUR TIME WITH YOUR ABARTH!! Life is too short for boring cars. We’re meant to be drive cars with souls…

[@howardishere]

Thank you so much!

[@felixvideoworkshop]

Lovely review, and lovely Abarth!

[@howardishere]

Thanks!

[@mixedbyfiatcat]

Mine is a 2013, only got 145k miles😉...Love this damn car. So much fun.

[@howardishere]

How’s your maintenance? Any big job done?

[@mixedbyfiatcat]

@@howardishere biggest one is probably the timing belt, water pump, and that at 90-100k miles. clutch will be a big one, hopefully it last a year or two more. hah.

[@TamNgo84]

I have a 2013 Fiat 500 Turbo and suddenly found your video as i was looking up the new 500e. Nice video and it seems you've had a good ownership experience. I haven't been so lucky as I had a blown engine at 48k miles and had to purchase a new one at great expense. Anyways, you had mentioned the side skirts being loose and I've had the same experience as well. The fix was pretty simple. I just pulled the side skirt out a bit to expose the plastic push tabs. There should be quite a few all along the middle of the side skirt. In my case, I noticed they had either fallen out or are just missing. I then rearranged them to fit into their appropriate slots and pressed the whole skirt up against the body until they snapped in place. Once the skirt is fully snapped in, you'll realize the adhesive isn't even necessary, at least not for the front. I'm not sure about the rear. I hope you'll give it a shot and take a peek behind it as its a really easy fix. On another note about the Beats system, I've also got the same system and it sounds pretty decent, and I'm quite an audiophile with expensive audio equipment at home. The sub even shakes the mirrors and interior if I left it at 0. Strangely enough, I have been in an Abarth with the same system and it sounded anemic compared to my system and it was very apparent as soon as I turned it on. It was literally night and day compared to mine. I'm not sure what the best solution is for you but if mine can sound good and rumbly, then there must be something going on with yours. Again, cool video, and the effort you put into it.

[@howardishere]

Question about the side skirt: is the whole skirt just fastened by plastic tabs and glue? Like are there any nuts and bolts? If not I am gonna give it a go and try to see if I can fix it myself. The beats system is very weak compared to other cars. It sounds exceptionally bad compared to to my other car. And glad you like the video!

[@TamNgo84]

@@howardishere there may be bolts at the bottom but you shouldn't need to undo them. It would be easier though to remove the entire side skirt if your hands can't fit into the opening once you pull on the gap. I personally had to use some tools like a plastic trim tool to prevent scratching the paint and creating deformation on the plastic skirt. Using towels is an option. On my own skirt, I had an issue where one of the plastic tabs that hold the plastic fastener was bent and I had to use a flat head to bend it back. It was really difficult to get a good angle and the part is all plastic but I managed it. Like I said, if it's bad enough, removing the side skirt would save you a lot of headache and time.

[@TamNgo84]

@@howardishere about your comment pertaining to the beats system, I do agree the system doesn't sound as good as other cars, but as I had mentioned, I've been in another 500 that had the beats but it sounded terrible compared to my 500. I think it's either an amp issue or something. My 500's system sounds quite full, and thumps good. You can feel the bass and it easily shakes the mirrors. I've had plenty of people sit in my car and tell me the system sounds surprisingly good, even compared to their cars. Not that it's a bragging point, there's lots of cars with better systems. Not to mention, I have a Hi-Fi headphone setup at home that is my benchmark of audio quality that puts every consumer audio system to shame.

[@epvendetta]

I owned a 500 Abarth, in 2013. Bought it for 16k US. Had to lemon it, which I was super disappointed about. The car had a faulty dash, that flickered and they couldn't source the part, so I had to give it up. What a fantastic, fun car.

[@cowmath77]

Very good overview; told me everything I wanted to know.

[@howardishere]

Glad to hear!

[@chriswilson9331]

My side skirts also separated. Here is the tape you need to use. Its the same tape they used at the factory when the car was built. ( 3M Super Strength Molding Tape #03614) It works very well!

[@howardishere]

I will look into it thx!

[@Starry_Night_Sky7455]

These are cute itty bitty cars. Fiat owes you repaired side skirts! That records binder gets an A+.

[@howardishere]

People say the dealer broke it when they lift the car which makes sense

[@hugovilag]

I got to try a new 500 last year; didn't like at all the driving position, but very surprised it came with a 6 speed manual.

[@howardishere]

It still sits super high like mine?

[@hugovilag]

@@howardishere yep, even lowering it I had the same problem as you with the roof. Anyway it was fun to roam around Madrid for a bit with it.

[@ottoglass2159]

Great video Howard!

[@howardishere]

Thank you!

[@downburst1]

Great video. Well done for logging this as it’s important historically.

[@howardishere]

Thank you! Just want to show everyone what’s it like to own the car 😁

[@jamespaterson4834]

Recommended to my feed, very thorough review.

[@howardishere]

Thx!

[@MrMrsMurder]

I love my 2012 Abarth! Algo nailed it on this one!

[@howardishere]

😁

[@rafaelmtoledo]

Awesome video and organization! Your FIAT has been more expensive to maintain than my Alfa Romeo Giulia so far. In 5 years all I had to do was change tires, battery and a couple of relays. I did purchase an extended warranty as it is a 2019 car and I should be covered for another 4 years. I still have less than 20,000 miles on it so let's see what will be the next repair, I'm thinking brakes. The only thing that I am still skeptical about keeping it for more years is if anything breaks, how long would it take for parts to arrive. The only negative thing I have to say about my Alfa is the local dealership connected with Dodge/Jeep, they are simply not that great and I would expect better care when talking about Alfa/Fiat which share the same dealer here. Keep it up!

[@howardishere]

My fiat dealer is also a keep/dodge/chrysler dealer and now fiat is kinda gone here (except for the 2024 500e they are selling, don’t think it will last long anyway). I still go back to do oil change and maintenance but when something big happen I honestly don’t know what to do. The fiat and Alfa brand in North America I think are very similar, like they will be gone soon lol I actually don’t mind going to the jeep/dodge/chrysler dealer here, the dealer I am going to people are very nice but and BUT they are a bit pricey.

[@guillaumegregoire-gauthier1449]

I don’t recommend anyone pay a dealer to put nitrogen in your tires when regular air is 78% nitrogen.

[@howardishere]

I am okay with nitrogen in tires. I am just not okay that dealer using nitrogen as a tool to scam ppl lol

[@velkovskinikola2]

dude driving in the winter with summer tyres especially in a place like Canada is plain dangerous. Please don't do it. Otherwise cograts on the car. Looks great. I have a 2012 Alfa Romeo Giulietta with the same engine. Love the sound.

[@howardishere]

How’s the maintenance on your Alfa?

[@dusankocisevic6823]

But the first sentence is HILARIOUS 😂😂🔝🔝

[@howardishere]

😂

[@rcademet]

Awesome viedo!! Very well executed!! I bought my 2012 pop in 2018 with 80k miles. I have 126k now with about 8 months of no driving . Love it, and have had many different vehicles over years. I don't want to buy anything else now. Looking for an Arbarth model to purchase, with the way vehicles prices skyrocketed and they seem to be coming back down now... maybe the first of next year 2025 I will find a 2018 or 2019 model with low miles to buy. Just wanted to say I really enjoyed your viedo and it shows that if these fiats are taken care of, they are worth it.

[@howardishere]

Thank you for your kind words! Depends on where you are I think abarth 500s are usually on the cheaper side. Specially here in North America ppl generally talk trash on them and the prices are kinda stable.

[@break_it_bill]

My Abarth Cabrio just got totaled, needless to say I'm not happy about it. Was a great little car.

[@howardishere]

Sorry to hear that. Will you be getting another one?

[@break_it_bill]

@@howardishere already started looking. finding one similar to my spec and with low mileage has been tricky. Have been considering a MX-5 RF, test drove one and enjoyed it. MX-5 has more direct steering and the shifting is snappier, but even my wife said after the RF test drive that something was missing, it didn't have the same rawness, "raspiness" that the Abarth did/does. Lacks a little of the attitude that the Abarth brings to the table.

[@chriswilson9331]

I have the exact color and year model. I love mine too, except for the potholes :D Thank you for the review!

[@howardishere]

Yea the suspension is too hard imo

[@alicehopkins8742]

Nice video! Great job!👏🏻

[@howardishere]

Thank you!

[@OnasaD]

There is nothing wrong with auto washing, I’ve done both and would prefer to auto wash any time of the year, yes it’ll scratch your car however that’s what polish shops are for. Also if it’s a black vehicle spending 1+ hours washing just for it to be dirty in 3hrs is not something I’m going to stress about

[@howardishere]

Finally you said what I wanted to say but ppl are like “ewww you are putting scratches on your car” like cmon

[@MehLewH]

My first ever car is a 2012 Alfa Romeo Giulietta with the same 1.4L MultiAir you have (and yes… also an automatic 😂). I received ownership of it from my parents this year, but we’ve had the car for allot longer than that tho. My parents purchased the car second hand in 2016, the car was a lease vehicle for the first part of its life (it was even fully specced out). In our hands it was gonna play its part as the “frontline” family car 😅. First time I saw it was when I was being picked up from grandma’s place (I was still a young kid at that time and I loved visiting her). It was quite the surprise seeing that car. They didn’t tell me anything on that they were going to buy a car. Even though my inner car-guy was deep asleep inside me at that time. The Alfa gave me a bigger spark of joy than any car we had in our possession previously. I am fairly certain that the Alfa coming into my life is what really started kicking off my love for cars in general. Of course, throughout the years of grocery getting does make the little Alfa protest in ways only Alfas do 😅. Electrical problems, and in need of proper driving. Sometimes problems fixing themselves because of Alfa Romeo magic 🤣 (yes I do believe in it), but that is just the usual Alfa experience! For the most meaningful and important parts of my life, I and the Alfa have been growing up beside eachother. Not even having driven it throughout all those years, and yet still caring so much about it. I’ll sure as hell celebrate it’s 10th “anniversary” with our family. Finally driving it was almost like a wish come true. It might not be the most epic story ever, but it is a special one to me. She still looks as good as ever. Maybe even better than ever ☺️. I just hope that me being responsible for the car works out properly 😆

[@howardishere]

All car stories should be special for the owner! And that’s a great story to hear 😁 as they say, you are not a true car enthusiast until you own an Alfa 👍

[@MehLewH]

@@howardishere I'm quite confident that my car guy saga couldn't have started off any better than this 😂. I will not be ruining her with mods tho. I will keep the OEM charm forever 😤

[@edwardwisniewski7600]

Great review !!! Really enjoyed it … thanks 👍🏼

[@howardishere]

Thank you!

[@fluffysharkdatazz9460]

There’s something about fiat/chrysler loving their coolant leaks.

[@howardishere]

Yea and it looks like it’s a North American problem too lol

[@ValentinG23]

every time i see one of these on the road i stop and admire it !!!

[@howardishere]

👍

[@simonelucente2863]

really well done video, really excellent car, fun and reliable

[@howardishere]

Ty!

[@lasalm1]

Awesome review! Just subscribed for more content like this.

[@howardishere]

Thank you!!

[@robertamoyaw8812]

If you enjoy life in your Fiat , it must be a really nice car n that's all that counts . I have a Mazda 3 which is not half as cute as your car but after 320k miles it still puts a smile on my face so am keeping it 😊👍

[@howardishere]

As long as your enjoy it 👍

[@pandaguy1368]

Great video man!😃

[@howardishere]

Thank you!

[@constantinrenoir8273]

Very great job man! I don't know if more driving videos on road or on track will be planned, but if it is possible, it could be so great to fix a camera on the pedalbox to film your footwork please! :)

[@howardishere]

Footwork on an automatic? Sure lol let me figure something out the thing is I don’t have a small enough camera like a go pro

[@constantinrenoir8273]

@@howardishere Great, thanks! It's still interesting. ;)

[@howardishere]

👍

[@SimpleThingsOne]

I hope you reach 1000 subscribers quick. Thanks for the video.

[@howardishere]

Thank you!

[@joobie1000]

Bro I can't believe the prices you quoted, the brakes alone ! In the u.k. I purchased brand new drilled and vented discs and pads all round for our abarth turismo for £250 uk Stirling, a full set of brand new yokohama adven tyres all round for £450 fitted, admittedly I've gotta mate who's a mechanic who fit the discs and pads for me, but with prices like that in Canada I'd be bankrupt, my brother in law lives in Canada in Brampton ontario and he said things can be expensive, but wow what an eye opener. We owned our turismo 7 years, had one drivers door handle break, gotta brand new one for £55 my mate fit it at his garage, we had a new battery £95 and we had a few problems with the boot release switch, I took it appart and soaked it with WD40 then re assembled it, problem solved. We also did a cambelt and water pump change at 64,000 miles our car had 79,980 on when we sold it and 32,000 when we 1st purchased it. We also had the electric power steering start playing up, so we sold it on to a dealer with the steering fault which I informed him about, so you been really lucky after 10 years of ownership. Iv currently just purchased another abarth 2021 monster yamaha Ltd edition, only 2000 ever made, I collect it next week from Glyn Hopkins motor franchise.

[@howardishere]

You guys have the Abarth that I really love, the 695 biposto are they still making it there? As for things in Canada…yea it gotten really expensive these past few years. You would piss your pants if you know how much an average house costs here lol I don’t drive my car hard though. Like I am super gentle with it even I am using sport mode.

[@joobie1000]

​​​@howardishere im not sure if they still make the biposto or not bro, I know they are very rare though in the uk.. I must admit I drive our abarth hard, it just screams out to me to throw it around bends etc ! And who am I to argue 😂 keep that sport mode on , and I used to own a civic type r gt so it's expected to ring its neck now and again, old habits die hard Quick update bro, I just spotted a blue 2023 biposto for sale £37,000 on e.bay

[@pandalol8852]

keep u the good work, the vid has a very nice vibe to it.

[@howardishere]

Thank you! 😁

[@DarkClosetOfTheMind]

You folks need a Delta Sonic car wash up there, those spinning brushes in your car wash made me cringe. Great video, the snow bit made me laugh. ;)

[@howardishere]

Glad you like the video! 😁

[@Psychoker]

7:00 One thing I don’t understand is why you got an oil change every 5,000 km. I worked as a mechanic at Mercedes, and even the AMG models had an interval of either once a year or when the specified kilometers were reached, whichever came first. The interval was usually around 15,000 to 25,000 km. I don’t get why you did it every 5,000 km. Looking at the sheet in your video, it should have only been done 10, maybe 12 times, but not 16.

[@howardishere]

You are right. I was thinking because I am not driving the car enough. You know how the dealer usually recommended me to change oil either a certain km or date has reached? The date usually around 8-10 months but for example this year, I only driven it no more than 1000km. And I didn’t do an oil change since 2023 June ish. I want to ask you when should I usually go oil change? Because this car is not a daily driver if I wait 15000 or 20000km that would be like 5years or more lol for real

[@Psychoker]

@@howardishere So if i get this rigth , the dealer recommended you around 8-10 mounths right ? If so it doest add up with your sheet in the video. You did an oil change every 3 months with +/- 5000km from the last oil change. Like for example the year 2015 and 2016 on your sheet, you did 2015 3 oil changes and 2016 4. Thats way to much. I would say if you are going to drive it less like you sad. Than do an oil change every year or every 1.5 year. On your sheet , the last oil change was may 2023, so it would be good to make one , because you wasnt driven a lot in the winter like you sad , if i remember correctly. And the nitrogen stuff with the tires , is to say it friendly bullshit. Because our air that we breath is already near 80% nitrogen so to fill the tires with "100%" makes no sens. Thats only money making from the workshops. Have a nice day ✌

[@howardishere]

Thx for your reply! I will get an oil change soon :) and yea the nitrogen thing was probably a scam