How do you fix a faulty Abarth gearbox?
Driving an Abarth is a genuinely enjoyable experience — the manufacturer pays close attention to every design detail to combine cabin space, power, handling and modernity. That is, of course, as long as your car is in good health. The moment mechanical problems such as a Fiat 500 Abarth gearbox problem appear, your car's behaviour changes — and getting the repairs under way becomes urgent.
That said, it is worth taking the time to assess the symptoms properly before visiting a specialist gearbox retailer. Your first step should be to identify exactly how the fault is making itself known. Are you hearing a suspicious Abarth gearbox noise? If so, is it constant, or does it only occur at specific moments such as gear changes? Have you noticed an oil leak from your 500 Abarth gearbox? Or perhaps you are dealing with a seized Fiat Stilo Abarth gearbox that grinds and becomes difficult to operate?
Once you have identified the symptoms — which may differ from those mentioned above — you will be in a much better position to plan the repair calmly. You will also need to know which type of gearbox your car has, what options exist for restoring it to working order, and, if necessary, how to find a reliable replacement unit.
Don't worry — we'll walk you through all of this!
Which Abarth gearbox fits my vehicle?
The question of Abarth gearbox compatibility is absolutely critical. It is impossible to know in advance whether adjustments and minor repairs will be enough to restore your city car's performance. In some cases, the fault requires a full replacement — and when that happens, you must be certain you are sourcing the correct reference for your specific model.
A little background: the famous Scorpion brand was born from a genuine passion. At the age of 11, its founder, Karl Alberto Abarth, used to take part in small scooter races around his neighbourhood. The other children, often older and bigger, had no trouble beating him. He decided to wrap his wooden wheel with a leather strap — an ingenious idea that allowed him to outrun his rivals. Abarth channelled that same competitive spirit and drive to innovate into his passion for vehicles, founding his own brand in March 1949 and giving it his own name. Competition runs through the company's DNA, and this is reflected in its highly technical design choices. The transmission system, paired with powerful engines, is central to the performance of the many models in the range.
If you are interested in the Abarth 500 gearbox — a stylish city car developed jointly with Fiat — you will find both manual (BVM) and automatic (BVA) options. The 1.4 160 hp 1368 cm³ engine is paired with a 5-speed manual or, optionally, a 5-speed automatic Abarth gearbox. The 135 hp version comes as standard with a 5-speed manual gearbox. The Abarth 500 Esseesse, producing 160 hp, is supplied as standard with a 5-speed manual gearbox.
You may be driving a 595, whose sporty looks are cleverly matched with exceptional agility and road-holding. Under the bonnet sits a T-JET engine producing 145 hp from 1368 cm³ — a combination that takes this city car all the way to 210 km/h. This model is fitted with a 5-speed manual Abarth 595 gearbox as part of its transmission system.
The 595 Turismo places a strong emphasis on style without ever compromising on mechanical performance. It shares the same engine as the standard 595, and comes as standard with a 5-speed automated manual gearbox, similar to the 500 Abarth automatic gearbox that supports the 165 hp engine.
As its name suggests, the Abarth 595 Competizione is built for those who love spirited driving. The manufacturer has certainly not skimped on giving this city car a thoroughly elegant look, but the engineering and technologies deployed are firmly focused on performance. The goal is simple: to deliver an adrenaline rush every time you get behind the wheel of your Abarth. In practical terms, this model retains the T-JET 1368 cm³ engine, but power is raised to 180 hp for a top speed of 225 km/h. The 595 Competizione comes as standard with a 5-speed manual gearbox, though you may be driving the version that optionally features a 5-speed automated manual gearbox.
The same sporting character is found in the 595 Esseesse and 695 Esseesse, which share a specification very similar to the 595 Competizione. While there are a few differences, the gearbox types fitted to these models are exactly the same: a 5-speed manual as standard and a 5-speed automated manual as an option.
Let's not forget the F595 — a concentrated blend of boldness, power and performance, designed as a tribute to the Formula Italia Abarth. Unsurprisingly, a T-JET 1368 cm³ engine sits under the bonnet. The manufacturer opted for 165 hp, backed by a 5-speed manual gearbox. Optionally, your vehicle may be fitted with the well-known 5-speed sequential automated gearbox found on the other models.
As vehicles evolve, transmission systems can vary depending on the year your car was built. This is why it is essential to identify the exact reference. To do so, look for the stamped code on the gearbox casing and use it whether you want to find out the Fiat 500 Abarth gearbox price or check the availability of another reference. If you are in any doubt, ask your mechanic to confirm the correct unit for your vehicle.
What is the solution for an Abarth gearbox problem?
First and foremost, never be tempted to "have a go" at fixing your gearbox yourself — it really is a bad idea. Technically speaking, the BVM and BVA types found across the manufacturer's various city cars are broadly similar. However, each new version benefits from improvements, which means the internal architecture can differ. Getting something wrong could cause significantly more damage.
As soon as you notice signs of an Abarth 500 gearbox problem — or a fault on any other model — contact a professional. Pass on your observations as precisely as you can, then let them take it from there, starting with the diagnosis.
A professional diagnosis naturally takes into account the information you have provided, but it does not stop there. The mechanic draws on their experience and thorough knowledge of automotive engineering to determine what is wrong. Only by identifying the exact type of fault and its cause is it possible to choose the right repair method.
If you have an Abarth gearbox warning light flashing or illuminated permanently, it may be a sign of a misadjusted Abarth gearbox actuator. Reconfiguring the system may be the answer, but it is also possible that faulty components need replacing. In addition, the warning light may indicate a lubrication issue, such as low transmission fluid level.
If you are hearing crunching noises and/or finding it difficult to select gears on an Abarth 500, the problem may well be contaminated gearbox oil in your 500 Abarth. In that case, an Abarth 500 gearbox oil change is generally the best course of action, provided a new lubricant compatible with your vehicle's requirements is used. Unusual noises can also result from broken components or a mounting issue.
A given symptom can therefore be interpreted in several ways, whether it concerns the Abarth 500 gearbox or the various 595 variants and other models. That is precisely why you should always consult an expert.
What are the options for buying an Abarth gearbox?
If the fault is serious, your mechanic may recommend fitting a replacement gearbox to extend the life of your car. This option is often included in the quote, but you are under no obligation to accept it. You are entirely free to choose your own supplier and ensure you get an Abarth gearbox at an attractive price. Your mechanic will only charge you for labour, which can significantly reduce your overall costs.
Of course, choosing the right supplier is essential, as the quality of the parts is the top priority. At EDEN BOITES, we take great care to offer only fully functional gearboxes, free from any defects that could compromise your safety or driving experience. We offer three ranges:
- the used Abarth gearbox: this is the most cost-effective option if you are looking to make significant savings. Our experts have individually tested and inspected every unit, allowing us to offer a minimum 3-month warranty;
- the Abarth exchange gearbox: this solution is strongly recommended if your city car is your main mode of transport. These rebuilt-to-0-km gearboxes are warranted for up to 24 months, giving you the confidence to cover long distances and use your car every day without worrying about its performance;
- Abarth gearbox reconditioning: this option involves rebuilding the faulty unit when the reference is not available in stock. A warranty of up to 24 months is provided.
Contact us to get your express online quote, which includes delivery costs. EDEN BOITES works with highly reliable carriers who deliver quickly throughout France and Europe. For convenience, it is often more practical to have your gearbox delivered directly to your mechanic, saving time and avoiding logistical complications.
After the repair, make sure you keep your car properly maintained — for example, by ensuring the Abarth gearbox oil remains at the correct level and that oil changes are carried out at the recommended intervals.
Feel free to browse our blog for expert advice on other makes and models.
