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: 2011
I'm so glad you decided to purchase the Smart car! It sounds like you had a great adventure driving it back to the LA area from El Paso, Texas. Even without cruise control, it seems like the car was comfortable and enjoyable to drive at 65 MPH. It's amazing how such a small car can be so practical and fun to drive around town. Thanks for sharing your experience!
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Vehicle year: 2016
The 2016/2017 model of the SMART For Two is a significant improvement from previous years. The ride is smoother and the six-speed transmission shifts seamlessly. The interior finish and appointments are of high quality and reflect Mercedes' input. The car handles windy driving conditions with ease and has an unparalleled turning radius. The cabin temperature controls are effective and the entertainment center produces outstanding sound. The new tires and reduced highway operating sound level are also great improvements. The only issue I have encountered is with the windshield wiper on the driver's side, which doesn't wipe well. Although the mileage is not quite as good as my previous SMARTs, I still consistently get 42/44 miles per gallon on the throughway. As a previous owner of a 2011 and 2013 coupe and cabrio, I can confidently say that I would not have returned for two more SMARTs if I did not like the previous ones I owned!
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Vehicle year: 2015
I recently purchased a used 2013 Smart Fortwo with 27k miles from a Mercedes dealer and I absolutely love it! I drive it 50 miles round trip daily to work and it averages an impressive 38mpg. Initially, I was a bit hesitant about driving it at high speeds or in heavy traffic, but my experiences have been nothing but positive. Of course, like with any car, I don't appreciate it when someone is tailgating me while I'm going 70mph. On the inside, the car doesn't feel small at all. Although it's narrower than most cars, the majority of the car is devoted to passenger space, so there are no issues with leg or headroom. I'm 6'1You can almost hear the 1000cc Mitsubishi engine purring in the back.
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Vehicle year: 2009
I'm delighted to share my positive experience with the BRABUS model. As someone who tends to switch cars frequently, I've never owned the same make and model twice, let alone in a row. However, after test driving the BRABUS, I was sold. The larger rims, heated leather seats, well-sculpted body, and improved suspension made it an easy choice. Now, my black BRABUS hatch looks stunning in my driveway and turns heads wherever I go. I highly recommend taking this car for a spin to experience the BRABUS magic for yourself. It's truly a SMART car for the guys.
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Vehicle year: 2017
Before making a purchase, it's always a good idea to check if your dealership offers warranty work. Unfortunately, Leith in Raleigh does not provide this service. However, there are two Mercedes-Benz dealerships near me, one in Charlotte, North Carolina and the other in Hampton, Virginia. Although they are a bit of a drive, they may be able to assist with any necessary recalls. Despite needing a recall fixed, my car is still running and I still enjoy driving it. While the gas tank isn't perfect, I've learned when to refuel.
Are you having problems with your Smart Fortwo?
Manley Grant 2025-02-16
Vehicle year: 2010
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!
Brendon McClure 2025-02-15
Vehicle year: 2008
It sounds like you had a great time driving your Smart car! It's always nice to receive positive feedback from other drivers and people. I can understand why you enjoyed it so much. Although you mentioned that you sold it for a VW Golf, which you find to be more comfortable. You also mentioned that the transmission was a bit difficult to get used to, and that it shifted gears slowly and heavily. However, it's great to hear that the Smart Center Portland was able to address all the repairs, recalls, and bulletins under warranty in a competent and thorough manner. Overall, it seems like the Smart car was a safe and fun option for driving on the freeway.
Clemens Durgan 2025-02-05
Vehicle year: 2008
Hello! Thank you for sharing your experience with us. We're sorry to hear that you've had some trouble with your car. It sounds like you've had a lot of issues with it, which must have been frustrating. We hope that we can help you resolve these issues as soon as possible. Please let us know how we can assist you further.
Daryl Zboncak 2025-02-03
Vehicle year: 2008
I am disappointed with this car. Although it is fun to drive, great to put the top down, and cute, I found out that a dealer buy back equals a lemon in the car world when I went to trade it in. As a result, it has a hideous trade-in value. I would like to advise Annapolis Smart-Mercedes to reconsider their buy-back policy. If you see a dealer buy-back in the title history, it is best to look elsewhere unless you plan on keeping it forever.
Colten Greenfelder 2025-02-03
Vehicle year: 2008
When I first read about smarts online, I was really excited about the purchase. I had heard stories about astronomical fuel economy and how the EPA numbers were grossly overrated. However, after owning a smart for several months, I have come to realize that it only gets about 2-3 MPG better than the civic it replaced. Additionally, it is much slower, doesn't brake as well, doesn't handle as well, and has far less room. The build quality is also dubious with minor trim pieces breaking or feeling very flimsy. For such a small car with such a small engine and so few amenities, I feel it should get much better MPG. If you are looking for an ultra fuel saver, I would recommend spending a few dollars more and getting a civic/focus/corolla instead.