General Fiat 500 warning light

[dave409]

Hi There
Can anyone tell me what is the problem when the warning light (a triangle with the exclamation mark in the middle) means, I can't find the issue if there is one, I feel that is could be a sensor malfunctioning, hope is not something more sinister.
Thank you
David

 

[varesecrazy]

Hi David

Basically thats the cars system telling you its 'sensed an issue'

Sometimes you will get a scrolling message..

Only conclusive waylug in an OBD reader

A basic one.. will read Engine codes only


To read 'the body computer' for access to Airbags, ABS brakes, power steering ,etc

You want better kit.. often a decent garage.. but you can have PC based software to try at home


I would try the basic £15 engine only tool first.. a Misfire is a common issue to see flagged one .... so essentially an 'early warning'

It is worth checking all lights on the car.. including the 3 brake lights. And licence plate lights. again something often found to trigger errors.



Ask around for an OBD reader..
Being inexpensive and around for 10+ years.. a lot of people have access to one



Once youve ruled out lights and engine codes..


Do get back in touch - there are a few other things that might feature


Charlie

 

[dave409]

Hi David

Basically thats the cars system telling you its 'sensed an issue'

Sometimes you will get a scrolling message..

Only conclusive waylug in an OBD reader

A basic one.. will read Engine codes only


To read 'the body computer' for access to Airbags, ABS brakes, power steering ,etc

You want better kit.. often a decent garage.. but you can have PC based software to try at home


I would try the basic £15 engine only tool first.. a Misfire is a common issue to see flagged one .... so essentially an 'early warning'

It is worth checking all lights on the car.. including the 3 brake lights. And licence plate lights. again something often found to trigger errors.



Ask around for an OBD reader..
Being inexpensive and around for 10+ years.. a lot of people have access to one



Once youve ruled out lights and engine codes..


Do get back in touch - there are a few other things that might feature


Charlie

Thank you Charlie for your information, I have had a look at the car but cannot find where to plug the OBD reader, my car is a Fiat 500 2009, maybe it doesn't have one what do you think?
Thank you for your assistance.
David

 

[varesecrazy]

Hi @dave409

The OBD socket will be there..
In UK RHD there is a plain panel by the drivers right knee

Grip its lower edge and PULL

It is under there ( sometimes has a protective cap on the socket.. but usually its right there in front of you)

I will try and add more info and image

 

[varesecrazy]

Hi @dave409

The OBD socket will be there..

Obd was on the modern Panda in 2003.. so the 500 will have one

These images are from a 2013 panda

Looks like I need to build a 500 GUIDE too..although its virtually identical :both models have the 312 build I.D.
(I have a 2018 500)

Panda 2012+ - Panda 312 OBD diagnostic port

This thread is for the general discussion of the Guide Panda 312 OBD diagnostic port. Please add to the discussion here. varesecrazy submitted a new guide: Panda 312 OBD diagnostic port Tool free access Firmly hold the lower dash panel.. and pull the lower edge.. see pics The OBD port is...

www.fiatforum.com

In UK RHD there is a plain panel by the drivers right knee

Grip its lower edge and PULL

It is under there ( sometimes has a protective cap on the socket.. but usually its right there in front of you)

 

[puntodeltathema]

If there's no message with the triangle, check the brake lights. See if the warning only comes on (after starting up) when you press the brake pedal.

Also check that the rear wiper and tailgate handle are all working OK - a break in the wiring to the hatchback is common and can throw up random errors.

But @veresecrazy 's advice to plug in to the diagnostic socket is a good one, if you have a code reader (though you'll need one that can read the body computer).

Nick

 

[John202020]

Many times its the front day running lights and the brief message at start up is missed?

 

[varesecrazy]

Link to the 500 OBD GUIDE

OBD2 Diagnostic port- location

Easy access to OBD port on a 500

www.fiatforum.com