2015 Smart Fortwo coupe 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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Common 2015 Smart Fortwo coupe problems
The Smart Fortwo Coupe 2015 has been known to have several common problems based on complaints from owners of this car. One of the issues is related to the seat and steering wheel height adjustment, which was standard on the basic Pure cars but a cost option as part of the comfort package on higher specification variants. As a result, some used examples may not have these essential items if they do not have the comfort package.
Another issue is the possibility of the maintenance flap becoming detached from the car, which could pose a risk to following road users. This issue affects Fortwos produced between April 2014 and October 2015, and most should have been fixed by now. However, it is recommended to investigate this with a local Smart dealer to ensure that the work has been completed on the car you are looking at.
The Smart Fortwo Coupe's size can also be a source of problems, as there is less car to insulate the driver from noise sources. The engine can become wearing if the driver is in a hurry, and at higher speeds, the rush of tyre roar and wind noise can intrude. This can make the car less refined than many of its competitors, and it is important to try the car in all possible conditions to ensure that you are happy with its performance.
The Smart Fortwo Coupe also has issues with its safety equipment. While Euro NCAP tested the car in 2014 and it achieved a remarkable four-star rating overall, it only scored 56 per cent for pedestrian mitigation and safety assist rating. This means that the car may not be as safe for pedestrians as other cars, and it is important to consider this when driving in urban areas.
In addition to these issues, the Smart Fortwo Coupe has a lower-than-average reliability score, according to exclusive extended warranty data provided by MotorEasy. The average repair cost is very high for such a small and inexpensive car, at more than £1,100. This is obviously a lot more than the cost of a used car warranty, which is worth bearing in mind. The most common problems with the Fortwo relate to its engine, with an average repair bill of around £750. Be aware of gearbox problems – they can really set you back. Although rare, a gearbox fault could lead to a repair bill of more than £3,000.
Finally, the Smart Fortwo Coupe has been recalled to replace poorly built bolts that could cause serious problems for owners. The bolts were made by Fontana Luigi S.p.A in Italy and were used to attach the fortwo's steering gear. NHTSA says that the bolts don't meet "endurance requirements", leaving them open to fractures and worse. Should one of the two bolts on the cross member break, vehicle handling would be impacted, increasing the risk of an accident.
What are the issues with smart fortwo?
Common Problems
- Electrics (11 cases)
- Suspension, Other (1 case)
- Other (7 cases)
- Electrics, Other (1 case)
- Gearbox / clutch, Suspension (1 case)
- Brakes (2 cases)
- Engine (4 cases)
- Electrics, Engine (2 cases)
What is the top speed of a 2015 smart fortwo pure coupe?
Power flows to the rear wheels by way of a five-speed automated-manual transmission. In Edmunds testing, a Smart Fortwo went from zero to 60 mph in a painfully slow 14.1 seconds on its way to a 90 mph top speed.
What engine does a 2015 smart fortwo have?
Used 2015 smart fortwo - Specs & Features
Engine | |
---|---|
Base engine size | 1.0 L |
Cylinders | Inline 3 |
Base engine type | Gas |
Horsepower | 70 hp @ 5,800 rpm |
What is the gas mileage for a 2015 smart fortwo pure coupe?
34/38 mpg city/highway
It is powered by a 1.0-liter I-3 rated at 70 hp and 68 lb-ft of torque and mated to a five-speed automated manual transmission. Fuel economy is decent for a car its size at 34/38 mpg city/highway but requires premium gas.
2015 Smart Fortwo coupe complaints
The NHTSA has received 0 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2015 Smart Fortwo coupe.
You can leave your car complaint via the special form below.
2015 Smart Fortwo coupe recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 2015 Smart Fortwo coupe.
- Manufacturer: Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC.
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain model year 2014-2015 Smart Fortwo Coupes and Convertibles, and 2014 Fortwo Coupe Electric and Fortwo Convertible Electric vehicles. The affected vehicles have steering gear mounting bolts which may break during vehicle operation.
- Consequence: If the steering gear mounting bolts break, vehicle handling could be affected, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: MBUSA will notify owners, and dealers will replace the steering gear mounting bolts, free of charge. The recall began on May 8, 2015. Owners may contact Smart customer service at 1-800-762-7887.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2015 Smart Fortwo coupe problems:
Smart Car 2015 Coupe Review Whats Horrible about the smart car ...
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2015 smart fortwo Problems | Kelley Blue Book
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