Fiat 500 Mileage Flashing
Have you switched the ignition on in your Fiat 500 and found the mileage display to be flashing? This isn’t actually that uncommon, and it’s frequently caused by a control module fault. Thankfully, we remanufacture a huge range of Fiat 500 control modules, including those that are known to cause the vehicle’s mileage to flash.
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Many owners often presume the Fiat 500’s blinking odometer is caused by an instrument cluster fault, however this isn’t usually the case. If your Fiat 500’s odometer is flashing and Bluetooth connectivity is not working, then there’s a high chance you’re experiencing an issue with a defective Blue&Me module. Alternatively, this odometer symptom can also be caused by a defective airbag ECU too.
If your Fiat 500’s flashing mileage is being caused by a control module fault then we can help. We’ll thoroughly test your unit on state-of-the-art rigs to confirm it’s defective. We’ll then remanufacture it with top-grade components and cover you with an unlimited-mileage lifetime warranty. Our process takes just 2-3 working days and you won’t need to recode the unit afterwards – use our short test form to get started today.
Why your Fiat 500’s mileage is flashing
Although a blinking odometer might appear like an instrument cluster defect, the Fiat 500 does this intentionally to indicate an issue. In short, the body control module (BCM) is indicating that the vehicle’s CAN (controller area network) configuration isn’t consistent with what it expects.
As you might know, the CAN bus is a communication network used by various control modules across the vehicle. Upon start-up, the BCM monitors this network and expects all of the vehicle’s configured electrical ‘nodes’ (control modules) to be present and responsive.
When the BCM carries out this check and detects an inconsistency, then the odometer on the instrument cluster is programmed to flash.
Now, this process could happen for a number of reasons. For example, the BCM might detect an unexpected control module on the network. This could be because the control module’s stored parameters don’t align with the BCM’s proxi data, or simply because the module isn’t meant to be a part of the network. Alternatively, this process can happen when a control module is unable to communicate, either because it is defective or because an electrical fault like a broken wire is preventing it from doing so.
Diagnosing a Fiat 500’s flashing mileage
Now, as mentioned, a defective control module is a common cause of a blinking odometer in a Fiat 500. One very common culprit is the Blue&Me control module. Blue&Me is a vehicle infotainment system and it’s what provides functionalities like Bluetooth pairing and hands-free communication.
Unfortunately, the control module in charge of managing the system frequently fails. A key indicator that it’s the cause of your Fiat 500’s flashing odometer is when Bluetooth connection is not working. In addition, it’s very common for this module to cause DTCs like U1733-87 and B10AA-4A to store when it’s defective.
Another common cause of a B10AA-4A DTC and a flashing mileage is the airbag ECU fitted to 2009-2019 Fiat 500 models. Of course, you should only suspect the airbag ECU if your Bluetooth connection is perfectly fine. When this Fiat 500 airbag control module is faulty, it almost always illuminates the airbag warning light, and often loses its ability to communicate – this is when a blinking mileage and a B10AA-4A DTC can occur.
However, in some cases, a Fiat 500’s flashing mileage isn’t always caused by a defective control module. It’s always worth investigating whether an electrical fault could be at play before condemning a control unit.
To do this, verify that the BCM and any suspect modules are receiving a good power and ground by testing with a multimeter while the ignition is on and the engine is off. It’s also recommended to check that fuses F36 and F51 are intact.
As a flashing mileage in a Fiat 500 is very closely related to CAN bus functionality, you should check this wiring too – watch our video below which outlines the key steps:
If you’re unable to carry out these checks, or simply don’t have the time, you can send your Blue&Me or airbag control module to us for professional testing. We’ll let you know conclusively whether your unit is defective or not, and if it is, we can remanufacture it too, all within 2-3 working days.
How to fix a flashing mileage display on a Fiat 500
If you’ve concluded that a faulty control module is the source of your Fiat 500’s flashing mileage, then the most effective solution is to have it professionally remanufactured.
Many owners will attempt to resolve this issue by replacing their defective unit with a brand-new one. However, what you’ve got to consider is that many control modules fail due to internal issues that are also present in like-for-like replacements. Therefore, purchasing a brand-new unit is not only incredibly expensive, but it can leave you vulnerable to the same fault reoccurring. You’ll also have to waste time and money recoding the new unit back to your vehicle.
Thankfully, we’ve developed a much more efficient solution for Fiat 500s with blinking odometers.
Our solution
We’ve developed a full remanufacturing solution for Fiat 500 Blue&Me modules and airbag ECUs that cause this very fault.
We’ll analyse your unit on state-of-the-art HIL testing rigs which are able to simulate realistic operating conditions. This allows us to identify all underperforming areas of the control module, which we’ll rectify during our remanufacturing process. We’ll even use higher-than-OEM-standard components, which contributes to enhancing unit durability.
Our process is designed not just to resolve the root cause of unit failure, but to keep the control module functioning properly for many years to come. Despite this, we’ll still provide you with an unbeatable unlimited-mileage lifetime warranty. Better still, you won’t even need to recode the rebuilt unit back to your vehicle afterwards, saving you yet more time.
Resolve the flashing mileage display in your Fiat 500 the long-lasting way. Have your control module tested and remanufactured within 2-3 working days by completing our short test form.
Blue&Me Control Module
Common failure symptoms:
- Flashing mileage on the Fiat 500’s instrument cluster
- Unable to connect via Bluetooth
- Blue&Me module won’t communicate
- Battery drain
Common fault codes:
- B10AA-4A – Check Configuration Failed, Incorrect Component Installed
- U1733-87 – Convergence Telematics Module Missing Message
Location on the vehicle:
The Blue&Me control module is typically fitted behind the glovebox, although some models house it towards the rear of the vehicle within the passenger side door panel. Therefore, it’s always worth checking manufacturer documentation for your specific model.
Airbag Control Module
Common failure symptoms:
- Flashing mileage on the Fiat 500’s instrument cluster
- Airbag light on
- SRS light on
- Unable to communicate with the airbag module
Common fault codes:
- B10AA-4A – Check Configuration Failed, Incorrect Component Installed
- U1726-87 – Lost Communication With ORC
- U0331-81 – FPS Status From BCM
Location on the vehicle:
In 2009-2019 Fiat 500 models, the airbag control module can be found beneath the centre console.
Test and rebuild:
We utilise bespoke state-of-the-art testing equipment to thoroughly analyse all units before commencing a rebuild. During remanufacturing, we utilise top-grade components and the very latest remanufacturing techniques.
Programming:
The programming information stored in your control module when you sent it to us is completely unaltered by our process. This means you’ll be able to refit your rebuilt control module as soon as you receive it back.
Quality:
Our defect rate of just 0.49% demonstrates our company-wide commitment to providing an excellent service.
Warranty:
Lifetime unlimited mileage*
How do I get my unit rebuilt?
To pay for the rebuild click the Shop Now link above, select your part number and click: Get yours rebuilt.
Print the payment/booking confirmation email.
Package the control module inside a sturdy box with plenty of packaging material and make sure you include your confirmation email in the box.
Send us your package by tracked courier (the shipping instructions are on the confirmation email).
Once received we will test, rebuild and return your unit with an unlimited mileage lifetime warranty. If your unit turns out not to be faulty then we will refund your payment less a small testing fee and return shipping.
What if I don’t want to pay up front?
This is not a problem, if you prefer this option then follow these steps:
Fill in and submit this test form.
Print the booking confirmation email.
Package the unit inside a sturdy box with plenty of packaging material and make sure you include your confirmation email in the box.
Send us your package by tracked courier (the shipping instructions are on the confirmation email).
Once received, we will test your control unit and call to inform you of the outcome of testing. If your control module is faulty and you choose to go ahead with the rebuild, then we will take payment over the phone using a debit/credit card.
We will then rebuild your unit and return it to you with an unlimited mileage warranty.
If you require further information regarding this Fiat 500 flashing mileage page then please contact us.