Why does my FIat 500 handle so badly?

I have recently brought a used (two and a half year old) Fiat 500 with 14,000 miles on the clock from an approved Fiat dealer. The handling on rough roads, over manhole covers and even crossing white line is appalling. At over 45mph if you go over a bump the car skips around alarmingly and on motorways I would say it is dangerous. I have checked the tyres and the pressures and all looks ok. What could be causing this and what should I do?

Asked on 7 September 2016 by Marcus Adams

Answered by Honest John

This was a characteristic of the original 500 (I've got one) due to the short wheelbase and the stiff rear end. But from 2010, much softer rear springs were fitted combined with a rear anti-roll bar and handling improved considerably. I run mine on 14-inch wheels with Michelin Alpin winter tyres and 15-inch wheels with Michelin Energy Savers. You probably need to reduce the cold pressures slightly.

Tags: ride comfort wheels and tyres technical issues

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