2016 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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Common 2016 Smart Fortwo problems
The Smart Fortwo 2016 has been reported to have several common problems by its owners. One of the most significant issues is related to the engine and fuel system. Some owners have reported that their cars shut off while driving, and in some cases, the car would no longer start after being parked for a month due to a battery management system failure. The estimated repair cost for this issue was $15,000, which Mercedes Benz refused to cover due to a lack of service upkeep.
Another owner reported issues with the steering, brakes, gas system, and fuel gauge since purchasing the car. The dealership and Mercedes Benz refused to fix the problem, leaving the owner with a car that was difficult to drive and potentially dangerous.
The 2016 Smart Fortwo also struggled with electrical problems. One owner reported that the key got stuck in the switch due to a poorly designed shifter, and the estimated repair cost was $1,100. Another person reported that the air conditioning failed to function by blowing hot air while driving at various speeds.
In addition to these issues, the Smart Fortwo 2016 has a lower-than-average reliability score, according to exclusive extended warranty data provided by MotorEasy. The most common problems with the Fortwo relate to its engine, with an average repair bill of around £750. Be aware of gearbox problems, as they can really set you back, with an average repair bill of more than £3,000 in rare cases.
The Smart Fortwo 2016 has also been criticized for its harsh ride and unpredictable transmission shifts, which have been improved in the 2016 model but are still not exceptional.
While the Smart Fortwo 2016 has its share of problems, it is worth noting that the car has a sturdy build and efficient engine, making it a solid choice for city dwellers looking for a compact and fuel-efficient car. However, potential buyers should be aware of these common issues and consider purchasing an extended warranty to cover potential problem areas.
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)
How long do smart engines last?
Smart Life expectancy
I'd say the engine can probably go 200k with regular maintenance and the suspension components/drive train (as in CV joints and boots) maybe 100K.
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 long lasting?
Typically, a Smart Car will survive 150,000-450,000 miles, providing an excellent ownership opportunity for buyers. The car can last for several decades with flawless maintenance, though most will get around two out of the system. If you're careful with the compact car, it will work well for your driving desires.
2016 Smart Fortwo complaints
The NHTSA has received 0 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2016 Smart Fortwo.
You can leave your car complaint via the special form below.
2016 Smart Fortwo recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 2016 Smart Fortwo.
- 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.
Negative 2016 Smart Fortwo car reviews
Positive 2016 Smart Fortwo car reviews
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After three years, I turned in my car as the lease was up. Throughout the 23,000 miles, the only issue I encountered was the 'check engine' light coming on and a heater/coolant valve getting stuck, causing the engine to warm up slower. The Mercedes dealer who performed the warranty repair informed me that it was the tenth Smart car they had encountered with that problem. Therefore, it may be a vulnerability that should be monitored. Unfortunately, the repair would have cost $500 out of warranty, and the dealer could not guarantee that the 'new' valve was any better than the old valves that had failed in two years.
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After being broadsided in my driver door in 2015, I decided to purchase another Smart car a year later! I love the idea of being in a roll cage, just like a race car! It's a German-engineered car with side and front airbags, making it a steel walnut! I absolutely love my Smart car!
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For those living in crowded cities, this car is a perfect fit. It has a small footprint, which makes parking and maneuvering a breeze. Driving it feels like an amusement park ride - so much fun! The newer design by Mercedes is impressive, considering the difficulty and expense of miniaturizing all the components while ensuring safety and performance. The engine's torque pulls this lightweight car (approx 2,000 pounds) quickly, and it has no problem keeping up with traffic, even on steep hills. The 'cross wind assist' function is a great feature that evens out high-speed driving during windy days. Overall, this car is a work of art!
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We had a fantastic experience at Walter's Mercedes-Benz. Our sales consultant, Christian Garcia-Felix, took complete care of us from the minute we walked in the door. He was very sweet and extremely thorough. We bought a 2016 Smart Fortwo Coupe and love it! Everyone we worked with, from Sales Manager Ted Pyle, Finance Manager Andy Towns and GM Ray Burke were kind, professional and solution oriented. The dealership is family owned, and we left feeling like we were family. It was truly a wonderful experience!
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Your car is simply wonderful! It's the perfect little machine for your everyday needs.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2016 Smart Fortwo problems:
Problems with Smart statistics | Smart Car of America Forum
Jan 27, 2016 ... ... issues are the most common and timing chain issues ... smart fortwo Engine Problems. See less See ... 2016 453 fortwo coupes with delivery by ...
Expected mileage out of a smart car before major issues : r/SmartCar
Jul 15, 2022 ... I remember with my old 2009 smart passion, I sometimes had problems switch to reverse. Read it was a common problem unfortunately.
Thinking of Buying One - What are Common Issues? | Smart Car of ...
Feb 17, 2020 ... Thinking of Buying One - What are Common Issues? · For cars in the rust belt, reluctor rings will rust out and cause ABS and traction control ...
2016 Smart ForTwo solves many problems, not all
Sep 26, 2015 ... For 2016, Smart ForTwo has zeroed in on the two biggest flaws of this tiny car—its transmission and its harsh ride—and improved both. It's ...
How reliable is Smart? : r/SmartCar
Oct 21, 2023 ... 120k miles is kinda pushing towards end of life and will cause loads of striffe. Another common problems isn't with the car but expect to get ...
Other years of Smart Fortwo
Are you having problems with your 2016 Smart Fortwo?
Reagan Kozey 2024-06-21
Hi there! I just wanted to let you know that the car seems to be getting less than 30 mpg, instead of the advertised 39/36. Also, it looks like the gas gauge might not be calibrated properly and the driver side window seems to lift off during windy conditions, which can be quite noisy. I noticed that these issues haven't been addressed during the last two services. Just thought you should know!
Garret Jenkins 2024-06-15
I'm so sorry to hear about your smart car! It's really frustrating that something as seemingly harmless as a wig could cause such a serious issue. It's understandable that you're feeling discouraged and hesitant to purchase another smart car in the future. Hopefully, the company can take steps to improve the design and prevent similar incidents from happening in the future.
Adrien Nicolas 2024-04-21
This 2016 smart car is not worth buying. My car gets awful gas mileage, averaging only 30 miles per gallon. I am having to put high-grade fuel in this car and only get 30 miles to a gallon. Additionally, there is a bad delay in turbo charge when taking off, and resale value is low when you go to trade or sell the car. I would advise anyone that is thinking about buying a 2016 Smart car not to buy one! Best regards, Linda.