Body parts FIAT 500 Saloon 0.6 (13 kw / 18 hp) (08.1968 - 01.1976)

If your FIAT 500 tailgate release handle has failed, it could be due to a few common issues:

- Mechanical Wear or Breakage: The handle mechanism itself can wear out or break over time, especially with frequent use. Springs or internal parts inside the handle assembly may fail, so the handle won’t physically trigger the latch.
- Electrical Problems: Many modern FIAT 500 models use an electronic release system controlled by a switch or button in the handle. Wiring issues, corrosion, or a faulty switch can cause the tailgate not to open even if the handle looks fine.
- Faulty Latch or Actuator: Sometimes the problem is not the handle but the latch or the electric actuator that releases the lock. If the actuator fails or is jammed, pulling the handle won’t open the tailgate.
- Body Control Module (BCM) or Software Issue: In some cases, a glitch or fault in the BCM that controls locking can prevent the tailgate from responding to the handle release.

Some owners have found success by carefully dismantling the handle, cleaning and lubricating the internal parts, and checking the wiring for damage or corrosion. Others have had to replace the entire handle assembly or latch actuator.

If the button or electric release is involved and replacement parts don’t fix it, sometimes a reset or reprogramming of the BCM is necessary.

For a clear step-by-step, there are good video guides online that show how to dismantle and diagnose the FIAT 500 tailgate handle and latch system, which can save some headaches.

Bottom line: It’s a mix of mechanical wear, electrical gremlins, or latch failure. Check the handle internals and wiring first, then latch and actuator next, and don’t forget to consider the electronic control unit if all else fails.