2004 Smart Cabrio
The 2004 Smart Cabrio is a small, rear-engine, rear-wheel-drive city car known for its fuel efficiency and unique design. The 2004 Smart Cabrio came with a 0.7L turbocharged three-cylinder engine producing around 61 horsepower and 70 lb-ft of torque. The transmission available was a 6-speed automated manual transmission. People generally like the car’s small size for easy parking and its fuel economy. Common dislikes include the jerky shifting of the automated manual transmission, the limited cargo space, and the sometimes rough ride quality.
Engine
0.7L Turbocharged Three-Cylinder
- Turbocharger Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Whining noise from the turbocharger, loss of power, excessive oil consumption.
- Solution: Turbocharger replacement.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
- Recalls: None Found
- Oil Leaks
- Description/Symptoms: Oil spots under the car, burning oil smell, low oil level. Common leak areas include the valve cover gasket and the turbocharger oil lines.
- Solution: Replace gaskets and seals.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
6-Speed Automated Manual
- Jerky Shifting/Hesitation
- Description/Symptoms: Abrupt and uneven gear changes, especially between 1st and 2nd gear. Hesitation or delays in shifting, particularly when accelerating.
- Solution: Software update to the Transmission Control Module (TCM) may improve shifting, but sometimes requires clutch replacement or transmission overhaul.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (Software update) - $2000+ (Clutch/Transmission)
- Recalls: None Found
- Clutch Actuator Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, inability to shift, or the car getting stuck in gear.
- Solution: Clutch actuator replacement.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Broken Coil Springs
- Description/Symptoms: Car sitting lower on one side, clunking noises when going over bumps.
- Solution: Coil spring replacement.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+ (per pair)
- Recalls: None Found
- Worn Suspension Bushings
- Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noises from the suspension, loose steering, and poor handling.
- Solution: Bushing replacement, often requires replacing the entire control arm.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ (depending on which bushing/arm)
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- SAM Unit (Signal Acquisition Module) Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Intermittent electrical problems, including malfunctioning lights, wipers, turn signals, and power windows. Can also cause starting problems or prevent the car from starting.
- Solution: SAM unit replacement or repair.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1200+
- Recalls: None Found
- Alternator Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Battery light on the dashboard, dimming headlights, difficulty starting the engine, or a completely dead battery.
- Solution: Alternator replacement.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $700+
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Convertible Top Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Leaks, difficulty opening or closing, torn fabric, or malfunctioning motors.
- Solution: Top repair or replacement, motor replacement.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (minor repair) - $2000+ (full replacement)
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Instrument Cluster Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Erratic gauge readings, flickering display, or complete failure of the instrument cluster.
- Solution: Instrument cluster repair or replacement.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
- Recalls: None Found
The 2004 Smart Cabrio, while unique and fuel-efficient, does have a few common issues. The most prevalent issues involve the jerky transmission and potential turbocharger problems, which can lead to moderately expensive repairs. Electrical issues related to the SAM unit can also be problematic and costly. Suspension issues are typical for a car of this age. While some fixes are relatively inexpensive, others can be more significant, so a thorough inspection is recommended before purchasing.