Smart Fortwo problems
The Smart Fortwo (stylized as "smart fortwo") is a two-seater city car built by the Smart division of the Mercedes-Benz Group from 1998 to 2024. In its third generation, the Fortwo has a rear-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout and a one-box design.
The first generation was internally designated as the W450, launched at the 1998 Paris Motor Show. The second generation W451-build series was launched at the 2006 Bologna Motor Show. The third generation Fortwo (2014–) was internally designated as the C453 build series, and debuted globally on July 16, 2014, at the Tempodrom in Berlin along with a closely related four-door version, the Smart Forfour, co-developed and sharing the same platform and engines with the third-generation Renault Twingo.
Marketed in 46 countries worldwide, Fortwo production had surpassed 1.7 million units by early 2015. The brand name Smart supposedly derives from its early history as a cooperative venture between Swatch and Mercedes: Swatch Mercedes ART. The Fortwo nameplate derives from its two-person seating capacity. Until 2002, the Fortwo had been marketed as the smart City-Coupé.
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Smart Fortwo model years
Common Smart Fortwo problems
Based on the complaints from owners of the Smart Fortwo cars, several common problems have been reported. Here is a detailed list of these issues:
- Transmission Issues:
- Smart cars, particularly the Fortwo model, are known to have trouble switching into reverse gear, with transmission failure being a common mechanical issue.
- The 2008 and 2009 Fortwo model years were especially problematic in this regard.
- Suspension Problems:
- Owners have reported issues with the suspension system of Smart cars, impacting the overall driving experience and comfort.
- Electrical Failures:
- Electrical failures have been a concern for Smart car owners, affecting various components like the charging unit and other electrical systems.
- Engine Failure:
- Some Smart Fortwo models have experienced engine failures, leading to significant repair costs and potential safety risks.
- Crazing:
- Owners have reported a condition called "crazing," where the car's roof develops small cracks due to wear and tear, affecting the aesthetics and potentially the structural integrity.
- Heater Blower Motor Issues:
- Problems with the heater blower motor have been reported, impacting the climate control system of Smart cars.
- Muffler Pipe Failures:
- Smart car owners have faced issues with failing muffler pipes, affecting the exhaust system and potentially leading to performance issues.
- Electrical Charging Unit Problems:
- The Smart Fortwo EQ model has been known to experience issues with the electrical charging unit, affecting the car's ability to charge efficiently.
These common problems reported by Smart car owners highlight various mechanical, electrical, and structural issues that can impact the performance, safety, and reliability of these vehicles. Owners should be aware of these issues and take proactive measures to address them to ensure the longevity and functionality of their Smart cars.
What is the common problem with smart cars?
Smart cars may experience transmission issues such as slipping gears, difficulty shifting, or rough gear changes, indicating potential problems with the transmission fluid, clutch, or internal components.
How reliable are Smart Fortwo cars?
Are Smart cars reliable? According to repairpal.com, the Smart car receives a ⅘ in reliability, putting it at 10th compared to 32 other car brands. It has an 8% probability of the necessary repair being severe, and users will take their Smart car to the repair shop an average of 0.3 times a year.
What are the weaknesses of a Smart Car?
Smart cars are typically only big enough to seat 2 people. This can be a real issue if you have a family of 4. Since they are not really geared towards families, this can be a decided disadvantage to owning one. Never mind the 20 trips you'd have to make to take your daughter's soccer team to practice!
Are smart cars cheap to fix?
But don't forget that the cost of maintaining a typical car can be as slow as $1,200 per year. It goes to say that maintaining a Smart Car costs as much as maintaining a typical car. There are no big disparities. A Smart Car is sensitive and requires regular maintenance, you know, just like any other type of car.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Smart Fortwo years
We have researched Smart problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Smart Fortwo cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Smart Fortwo model years:
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Smart Fortwo model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Smart Fortwo years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Smart Fortwo car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Smart Fortwo , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Power train problems
- Engine problems
- Electrical system problems
- Unknown or other problems
- Seat belts problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Smart Fortwo vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Fortwo model years
A total of 14 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by Fortwo model years
There were a total of 40 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by Fortwo model years
There were a total of 16 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with deaths by Fortwo model years
There were a total of 1 complaints that resulted in a death. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 276 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Smart Fortwo . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Smart Fortwo vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Smart Fortwo 2008
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-25
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-25
- Fire: 1
- VIN: WMEEK31X68K
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: The contact owns a 2008 Smart Fortwo. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 18V273000(Engine and Engine Cooling) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the contact noticed there was smoke coming from the engine. The contact stated that the vehicle had caught on fire. No warning lights illuminated. The contact exited the vehicle quickly and entered a mechanic shop and a mechanic put on safety gloves to extinguish the fire with a fire hose. The fire was able to be extinguished by the mechanic. The mechanic mentioned that the insulation mat detached from the vehicle and caught on fire. No injuries were sustained. A fire report was not filed since the fire department was not at the scene. A Police report was not filed. The vehicle was towed to the contact's parents' home where it remained. The dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 80,000. Parts Distribution Disconnect
Smart Fortwo 2008
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-08
- VIN: WMEEJ31X28K
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: Mercedes-Benz USA has no service centers on Long Island,NY that might fix the recall issue. For a time they were the only Smart Car service provider after Smart Car dealers were abandoned. MB USA currently will not do the recall and offers no reasonable alternative. The issue is potential engine compartment/total vehicle fire due to compartment insulation failure. Offers no suggestions for doing the recall service except one MB dealer in CT at one time might be able; if I research them.
Smart Fortwo 2008
- Date Of Incident: 2018-06-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-06
- VIN: WMEEJ31X48K
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: The contact's mother owns a 2008 Smart ForTwo. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 18V273000 (Engine and Engine Cooling). The local dealer was notified of the recall but informed the contact that the recall could not be serviced at their location. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and referred the contact to a dealer that was 180 miles away. The manufacturer was informed that the owner of the vehicle was elderly and would not be able to travel that far a distance yet was offered no additional assistance. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.
Smart Fortwo 2009
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-05
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-05
- VIN: WMEEK31X69K
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: The contact owns a 2009 Mercedes-Benz Smart ForTwo. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 18V273000 (Engine and Engine Cooling); however, the part to do the repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The manufacturer scheduled an appointment at the dealer; however, the dealer contacted the contact and decline to honor the recall repair appointment. The contact contacted two dealers and was informed that they do not perform repair on Mercedes-Benz Smart Cars. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.
Smart Fortwo 2008
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-30
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-30
- VIN: WMEEK31X58K
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: The contact owns a 2008 Smart ForTwo. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 18V273000 (Engine and Engine Cooling); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The manufacturer suggested that the vehicle be towed to another local dealer. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.
Smart Fortwo 2009
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-29
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-29
- VIN: WMEEJ31X99K
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: The contact owns a 2009 Mercedes-Benz Smart Fortwo. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 18V273000 (Engine and Engine Cooling); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer and several unknown dealers were contacted and informed the contact that they did not service Smart vehicles. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.
Smart Fortwo 2009
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-03
- VIN: WMEEJ31X89K
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: When starting the car, the transmission will not respond to the shifter being put into any gear. A computer diagnostic says it is a communications issue. Mercedes, who sold the car to me new, refuses to do any repair work as they have discontinued Smart sales in the US. If the communications for the transmission fails during operation, this will be very dangerous. There are numerous reports on the internet of similar issues and owners trying to repair this themselves. Mercedes needs to be forced to repair what they have sold and represented. If this is a software update issue, who has the software to fix this issue? It is outrageous that NHTSA has not enforced these issues with Mercedes Benz of America.
Smart Fortwo 2008
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-04
- Date Complaint: 2024-06-04
- VIN: WMEEK31X48K
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: The contact owns a 2008 Mercedes-Benz Smart ForTwo. The contact received a notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 18V273000 (Engine and Engine Cooling). The parts were available; however, the dealer list the manufacturer provided that the recall repair instructions were not available. The contact called multiple dealers however services could not be provided. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.
Smart Fortwo 2017
- Date Of Incident: 2023-06-28
- Date Complaint: 2023-07-28
- VIN: WMEFJ9BA2HK
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: The car won't charge over 20% due probably a faulty manufacturer part of N83 high voltage control box. This could cause very serious electrical/battery issues if the high voltage box is faulty.
Smart Fortwo 2009
- Date Of Incident: 2023-05-02
- Date Complaint: 2023-05-02
- VIN: WMEEJ31X19K
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,POWER TRAIN,TIRES
- Summary: The contact owns a 2009 Smart ForTwo. The contact stated that on multiple occasions when the vehicle was parked and the gear shifter was shifted, the transmission would only shift into neutral. Additionally, the contact stated that the vehicle failed to respond when the accelerator pedal was depressed. Additionally, the tire pressure warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic but was not diagnosed or repaired. The contact also received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 18V273000 (Engine and Engine Cooling) however, parts to do the recall repair was unavailable. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 37,000. Parts distribution disconnect.
Smart Fortwo 2011
- Date Of Incident: 2023-01-02
- Date Complaint: 2023-01-09
- VIN: WMEEJ3BA1BK
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: 175 55 r15 Tge tires wires startes to unravelling and chabgibg the ahape of tge tire.
Smart Fortwo 2009
- Date Of Incident: 2022-10-24
- Date Complaint: 2022-10-24
- VIN: wmeej31x29k
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: 2008 Smart Fortwo has a recall open for reprograming the transmission computer because of rough shifting and bucking while shifting and lugging the engine to much before down shifting. Mine is a 2008 but the VIN was not included in the recall and I am having the same problems with mine. Can mine be added to the recall?
Smart Fortwo 2008
- Date Of Incident: 2022-09-15
- Date Complaint: 2022-09-15
- Fire: 1
- VIN: WMEEJ31X38K
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SERVICE BRAKES,ENGINE
- Summary: We were driving in Greensboro NC this afternoon on the way to my husbands birthday dinner when off of Bridford? Parkway our 2008 smart car passion for two started malfunctioning all lights flashing on instrument panel & brakes quit & another motorist drove up beside us with window down screaming GET OUT YOUR CAR IS ON FIRE!!! We managed to stop on side of road at woods & jumped out car was on fire looked like under back tires and engine in back! We grabbed what we could save & ran. 911 was called & fire and police came. 2 Witnesses also to event we have photos & videos. Our car burned all the way down to frame! Total loss! We could have died because we couldnt see the fire behind us under car & if not for the man we may have blown up!!
Smart Fortwo 2009
- Date Of Incident: 2021-11-08
- Date Complaint: 2022-02-07
- VIN: WMEEJ31X09K
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2009 Smart ForTwo. The contact stated that while starting the vehicle, the air bag warning light was illuminated and would not turn off. The contact took the vehicle to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed with needing the driver’s side air bag replaced. The vehicle was not repaired but was pending repairs. The independent mechanic had to order the parts for the repair. The dealer was contacted however, the dealer was unable to confirm when the part would be available. The manufacturer had not been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 127,000.
Smart Fortwo 2012
- Date Of Incident: 2022-01-16
- Date Complaint: 2022-01-18
- VIN: WMEEK3BA9CK
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: The driver side seat belt mount, which in this case is a steel cable, has mostly broken and frayed rendering it unsafe to drive. In the event of an accident, it would certainly break completely. I only noticed it yesterday while cleaning, the breakage would've happened while driving it. I've contacted mercedes USA, and they tell me that my warranty has run out, they can't do anything. Even though this is a mandatory safety feature that has completely failed from normal use.
Latest 5 recalls Smart Fortwo
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 5 recalls for different components of the Smart Fortwo.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Smart Fortwo 2008
- Report Received Date: 2018-04-27
- Manufacturer: Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC.
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM
- Summary: Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC. (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2008-2009 smart fortwo cabrio and fortwo coupe vehicles. The rear insulation mat in the engine compartment may deform, deteriorate, and loosen over time, allowing the mat to contact hot exhaust system components.
- Consequence: If the mat contacts hot exhaust system components, it can increase the risk of a fire.
- Remedy: MBUSA will notify owners, and dealers will replace the rear insulation mat with an improved one, free of charge. The recall began in July 2018. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2018060010.
- Model: Smart Fortwo 2009
- Report Received Date: 2018-04-27
- Manufacturer: Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC.
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM
- Summary: Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC. (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2008-2009 smart fortwo cabrio and fortwo coupe vehicles. The rear insulation mat in the engine compartment may deform, deteriorate, and loosen over time, allowing the mat to contact hot exhaust system components.
- Consequence: If the mat contacts hot exhaust system components, it can increase the risk of a fire.
- Remedy: MBUSA will notify owners, and dealers will replace the rear insulation mat with an improved one, free of charge. The recall began in July 2018. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2018060010.
- Model: Smart Fortwo 2016
- Report Received Date: 2017-07-16
- Manufacturer: Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC.
- Components: PARKING BRAKE
- Summary: Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2016 smart fortwo vehicles. In these vehicles, the lock nut that secures the parking brake cable to the parking brake lever may loosen over time, resulting in increased parking brake lever travel before the parking brake engages.
- Consequence: As the parking brake lever travel increases, the holding force may decrease to a point where the vehicle is no longer safely secured in all parking situations, allowing the vehicle to unexpectedly move when parked on a slope, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: MBUSA will notify owners, and dealers will replace the parking brake cable lock nut, free of charge. The recall began September 20, 2017. Owners may contact smart customer service at 1-877-496-3691.
- Model: Smart Fortwo 2017
- Report Received Date: 2017-07-14
- Manufacturer: Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC.
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: Mercedes-Benz USA LLC. (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2017 smart fortwo and smart fortwo Cabriolet vehicles. Casting imperfections may result in the failure of the left front axle steering knuckle.
- Consequence: Failure of the left front axle steering knuckle could affect vehicle control, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: MBUSA will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the left front axle steering knuckle, replacing any from the affected batch, free of charge. The recall October 13, 2017. Owners may contact smart customer service at 1-877-496-3691.
- Model: Smart Fortwo 2008
- Report Received Date: 2008-08-07
- Manufacturer: SMART USA DISTRIBUTOR LLC
- Components: STRUCTURE:FRAME AND MEMBERS
- Summary: SMART USA IS RECALLING 43 MY 2008 FORTWO 451 VEHICLES. A SINGLE BATCH OF PAINT SENT TO THE COMPANY DID NOT MEET SPECIFICATIONS. A RE-WORK WAS DONE IN THE PLANT USING DIFFERENT FORMULATIONS OF PAINTING MATERIALS. AFTER THE RE-WORK WAS COMPLETED, IT WAS DETERMINED THAT THE COMBINATION OF MATERIALS USED TO REPAINT THE FRAME AND CHASSIS COULD LEAD TO DE LAMINATION OF THE PAINT MATERIALS FROM THE BODY AND FRAME STRUCTURES.
- Consequence: SUCH DE LAMINATING CAN TAKE PLACE IN THE AREA OF THE BODY WHERE THE WINDSHIELD AND ROOF HAVE BEEN AFFIXED WITH ADHESIVE, WHICH COULD AFFECT THE ADHESION OF THOSE COMPONENTS TO THE VEHICLE BODY, INCREASING THE RISK OF SEPARATION. THIS COULD CAUSE A CRASH IF THE ROOF OR WINDSHIELD SEPARATED FROM THE VEHICLE WHILE IN MOTION.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPAINT THE AFFECTED AREAS TO MEET SPECIFICATIONS. THE RECALL BEGAN ON AUGUST 18, 2008. OWNERS MAY CONTACT SMART USA AT 1-248-648-2451.
Latest negative Smart Fortwo car reviews
Latest positive Smart Fortwo car reviews
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Vehicle year: 2010
This car is amazing for commuting to work! It's so much fun to drive, like a go-cart. My wife loves driving it on the weekends too. The upright seating makes it feel roomy like a pickup truck, and it's so durable that flying rocks won't even dent it. Plus, with 10,000 miles between oil changes and consistent gas mileage of 42 mpg in Minneapolis (worst was 38 mpg in deep slushy snow), it's incredibly efficient. My commute involves both freeway driving at 80mph and navigating downtown congestion for a total of 60 miles per day, but this car makes it easy to park and maneuver. In some states, you can even park straight into the curb (no parallel parking required) and share parking spaces with motorcycles or other smart cars. The plastic panels resist rust and you can even change the car's color in about 4 hours. Overall, this is a very tough little car with great acceleration!
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Vehicle year: 2008
I just downsized from a huge full size sedan to the fortwo and I couldn't be happier. Despite the funny looks people give, it's well worth the purchase. It may be a bit utilitarian in its features, but it helps keep life simple and saves me $500 a month in gas. Plus, as someone who is 6'2, I was pleasantly surprised by how spacious it is. Overall, I highly recommend it!
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Vehicle year: 2014
My wife has been interested in the Passion coupe since it was introduced to the US in 2008, so I recently purchased one for her. She used to drive a 2008 New Beetle Convertible, but it was becoming a hassle to maintain due to reliability issues. As many reviews have pointed out, the smartfor2 has a rather unusual 5-speed automatic transmission that can also be shifted manually using the steering wheel mounted paddles or the floor shifter. My wife usually keeps the car in auto mode, which causes it to constantly shift, even on small inclines. When I drive the car, I prefer to use the manual mode. It actually gets better gas mileage than advertised.
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Vehicle year: 2011
Hi there! I wanted to share my experience with my '09 Cabriolet. It's a red and black beauty with almost 30,000 miles on the engine. Overall, I really like this car. It's designed to be honest and appeals to drivers who want sensible fun. While it's not the fastest car out there, I don't mind taking my time to get up to highway speed. Once in 5th gear, the car easily dominates in traffic. The ride is a bit stiff, similar to a MINI Cooper, but the handling is crisp with just a hint of weight in the steering. The interior is brightly decorated, but it does feel a bit cheap for its price class. However, the car is very sturdy on the road and the important parts are solid as rocks. Thanks for letting me share!
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Vehicle year: 2012
Hello! I hope you're doing well. I wanted to share with you my experience with my car. It's a 2009 model that I bought brand new in September of that year. Even after driving it for 90k miles, it still runs just as well as the day I drove it off the lot. It's become a part of me, you know? I've never felt this way about any other car in my 50 years of driving! It's just so much fun to drive, whether I'm cruising around the city or taking a long road trip.
Are you having problems with your Smart Fortwo?
Elias Labadie 2025-08-03
Vehicle year: 2008
This car has had multiple issues since day one. The passenger seat airbag light turned on after going through a small puddle during a rainstorm and has not turned off since. Additionally, the engine turns off easily if the key is barely touched while in the ignition, which is a major safety concern while driving. The car has also had repeated issues with the engine not going into gear, especially in reverse, making it difficult to perform simple maneuvers like a u-turn. Although it seems to work for a few weeks at a time, it goes through phases of malfunctioning, and the battery dies frequently. Despite living on an island where shipping costs are high, I have not yet taken it to the dealer. However, I am confident that these issues can be resolved with the right expertise and attention.
Madisen Thompson 2025-08-01
Vehicle year: 2008
In 2008, we purchased our first Smart car. Unfortunately, it experienced severe shaking at speeds over 40mph, which led us to return it to the dealer. While the car was new to the market at the time, it was clear that it had been rushed out with numerous issues. The dealer replaced the car, but the loan for the second car was significantly higher, nearly $400 a month for 7 years. Despite this, we were distracted by the recession and focused on surviving. Eventually, the car died in 2012 while we were still paying off the loan. Unfortunately, no service shops near us could diagnose or fix the car, and it had to be returned to the dealer. After researching online reviews, we discovered that many people had reported transmission problems with the same model. We were disappointed that Smart did not recall these cars and that we received no help from the dealer or the 800 numbers. We are considering legal action against Smart for the significant financial burden and inconvenience caused by this experience.
Baylee Wilkinson 2025-07-07
Vehicle year: 2008
I purchased this vehicle new and experienced transmission issues within the first year, specifically with it not going into reverse. Despite the dealership claiming there was nothing wrong, the issue persisted and now, one year later and with no warranty, the car will not go into either reverse or forward. It is impossible to operate a vehicle that cannot move in either direction.
Brian Gulgowski 2025-07-06
Vehicle year: 2008
I purchased my 2008 Smart Fortwo Passion Coupe from a used car dealer in 2009. The previous owner was an elderly lady who had it in her possession before me. Although the car has a unique transmission shifting, it runs great when it's working properly. Unfortunately, the manufacturer did not do a good job with the soldering, which has caused some issues. However, there is a helpful Youtube video that explains how to fix the problematic SAM computer for free. Despite what the dealership may tell you, it's not a complicated process. I've had the car for 10 years now and have experienced a few problems with it. On three separate occasions, the car died in the middle of traffic due to a blown fuse in the tiny fuel pump located in the 10-gallon plastic fuel tank. The Smart computers are not as smart as they should be and do not recognize the lack of fuel pressure, causing them to try and start the car anyway. I had to be towed three times, but the issue was eventually resolved. During the first tow, nothing was found, and the fuse was replaced. The car ran for almost a week before the fuse blew again. On the second tow, I was told that I needed a new fuel pump, which was replaced along with the fuse. However, the fuse blew again after only one day. Fortunately, I kept all of the old parts and demanded my money back for the misdiagnosis. The service manager found that the pump power wire was screwed to the ground under the gas tank mounting from the factory, causing the issue. The wire was soldered and taped up, but the tape later came off and blew the fuse again. The ABS computer is located under the cabin outside, which makes it susceptible to water damage. The battery voltage caused electrolysis, which led to the pins rotting off the leaky plug. Although the computer replacement was expensive, I was able to purchase one from a salvage yard. The car is similar to Apple computers in that it will not run with replacement parts unless you let the dealership fix it for thousands of dollars. I had a hacker in Arizona reprogram the junk computer over the internet at my third-party Mercedes shop. It's important to avoid driving the car through any kind of water to prevent damage to the ABS. The plastic sunroof has also been replaced four times due to cracking and crazing before MBUSA bought out Smart America from the importer.I had given up on having a sunroof that would allow me to see the sky, but unfortunately, the top 4 of my car is just as bad as the top 1 was. The top is glued on over the hole, which makes the car quite insecure. Even the black roof of the cheaper version is glued on. Please be careful not to let the cast premium wheel hit the curb as it can break both right-hand wheels off the car where the rim meets the spokes. As a friendly suggestion, I would recommend replacing the cast wheels with the steel wheels from the Pure. I was able to purchase a set of steel Smart wheels from a California recycler for $200. The car crashes to the ground when the cast wheels break off, which is not a pleasant experience. Unfortunately, there is a bad capacitor in the radio, and the company that makes all Ford radios says any schematic to fix it is proprietary and cannot be shared. As a result, the AUX and CD player no longer work, and the radio is distorted. If you ever experience a problem with the shifting program, try resetting it by disconnecting the battery for a day and rebooting. This also worked to reboot the ignition computer that failed running for miles in the boondocks on 2 cylinders. If you have been experiencing issues with the heater fan, I would suggest realigning the brushes in the Behr fan motor or purchasing a set of better brushes from an eBay seller. Hella-Behr knows better after all these years but chooses to build bad motors to make dealers profit. Unfortunately, owners are never allowed to possess a REAL SCHEMATIC of the little beast, so one can trace the poorly coded wires through the maze of wiring. Even dealers have nothing but an interconnect diagram between 'mystery modules'. Instead of a clear solution, they suggest swapping thousand dollar modules until something works. As you can see, this owner is not a fan of the Smart mistake. While it may not compare to any of my other Mercedes cars, it still has its own unique qualities. It was three times the cost of my 1983 300TD diesel station wagon, which still runs flawlessly at 850,000 miles. Let's change the oil and hit the road to California in the morning!
Antwon Denesik 2025-06-25
Vehicle year: 2012
Congratulations on your new car purchase! I'm glad to hear that you're enjoying driving it around town and that it's easy to park. It sounds like it's a great fit for your needs as a second vehicle. While it may not have the same utility as a larger car, it's perfect for running errands and carrying one person around. Thank you for sharing your experience with us!