2005 Smart Forfour

The 2005 Smart Forfour is a small, four-door hatchback known for its fuel efficiency and compact size, making it suitable for urban environments. Several engine and transmission options were available including petrol engines like the 1.1L, 1.3L, and 1.5L, as well as diesel engines like the 1.5L CDI. Horsepower figures vary depending on the engine, ranging from around 75 hp to 109 hp for the petrol engines, and approximately 68 hp to 95 hp for the diesels. Torque figures also vary, with the 1.5L petrol engine producing around 150 Nm. Owners often appreciate its maneuverability and ease of parking, while some dislike its relatively small size and sometimes quirky handling.

Engine

1.5L CDI Diesel

• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, excessive black smoke from the exhaust, whistling noise from the engine bay.
  • Solution: Replacement of the turbocharger unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• EGR Valve Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, stalling, poor fuel economy, engine management light illuminated.
  • Solution: Cleaning or replacement of the EGR valve.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

1.3L Petrol

• Timing Chain Wear/Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling noise from the engine, especially on start-up, loss of power, engine misfires.
  • Solution: Replacement of the timing chain, tensioners, and guides.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

All Transmissions

• Clutch Failure (Manual)
  • Description/Symptoms: Clutch slipping, difficulty shifting gears, clutch pedal sticking or being hard to press.
  • Solution: Replacement of the clutch disc, pressure plate, and release bearing.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Gearbox Bearing Wear (Manual)
  • Description/Symptoms: Whining or grinding noise from the gearbox, especially in certain gears.
  • Solution: Replacement of the worn gearbox bearings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Broken Coil Springs
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle leaning to one side, unusual noises from the suspension when going over bumps.
  • Solution: Replacement of the broken coil spring(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+ per spring
  • Recalls: None Found
• Worn Suspension Bushings
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the suspension, imprecise handling, excessive tire wear.
  • Solution: Replacement of the worn bushings in the control arms and other suspension components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Faulty SAM Unit (Signal Acquisition Module)
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent electrical issues such as lights not working, wipers malfunctioning, central locking problems.
  • Solution: Replacement or reprogramming of the SAM unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Central Locking Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Central locking system failing to lock or unlock doors, remote key fob not working.
  • Solution: Replacement of the central locking actuator(s) or repair of wiring issues.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rear Wiper Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rear wiper not working, making unusual noises, or moving erratically.
  • Solution: Replacement of the rear wiper motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Window Regulator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Window not moving up or down, or moving slowly and erratically.
  • Solution: Replacement of the window regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found
• Dashboard Cracks
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks appearing on the dashboard surface due to sun exposure and aging.
  • Solution: Replacement of the dashboard or installation of a dashboard cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2005 Smart Forfour, while being a practical city car, has some common issues. Engine problems like turbocharger failure in the diesel variants and timing chain wear in the petrol engines can be costly. Suspension and electrical faults, such as broken coil springs and SAM unit issues, also appear frequently. Interior issues like window regulator failure and dashboard cracks can also arise. The severity and cost of these repairs vary, but it is important to be aware of these potential problems when considering purchasing or maintaining a 2005 Smart Forfour.