2005 Smart Fortwo

The 2005 Smart Fortwo, also known as the Smart City-Coupé, is a microcar known for its compact size and fuel efficiency. The primary engine option for this model year is a 698cc three-cylinder turbocharged gasoline engine, producing around 61 horsepower and 70 lb-ft of torque. It was also available with a diesel engine in some markets, but we will focus on the gasoline model here. The 2005 Fortwo is generally liked for its parking ease in urban environments and its distinctive styling, but it receives criticism for its jerky automated manual transmission and limited cargo space.

Engine

698cc Turbocharged Gasoline Engine

• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, excessive smoke from the exhaust, whining noise from the turbocharger.
  • Solution: Replacement of the turbocharger.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil spots under the car, burning oil smell, low oil level. Often occurs around the valve cover gasket or oil pan gasket.
  • Solution: Replacement of the leaking gasket or seal.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
• Faulty Crankshaft Position Sensor
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty starting, stalling, rough running engine.
  • Solution: Replacement of the crankshaft position sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+

Transmission

• Automated Manual Transmission

• Jerky Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Abrupt and harsh gear changes, hesitation between shifts, especially noticeable in lower gears.
  • Solution: Software updates for the transmission control module (TCM) can sometimes improve shifting, but often the clutch actuator or clutch itself needs replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1200+
• Clutch Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting, inability to select gears, grinding noises, transmission failure warning light.
  • Solution: Replacement of the clutch actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $900+
• Clutch Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Slipping clutch, difficulty engaging gears, high RPMs with slow acceleration.
  • Solution: Replacement of the clutch assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+

Suspension

• Worn Shock Absorbers/Struts
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, excessive body roll when cornering, poor handling.
  • Solution: Replacement of shock absorbers and/or struts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ (for all four)
• Broken or Worn Coil Springs
  • Description/Symptoms: Uneven ride height, sagging suspension, clunking noises when driving over bumps.
  • Solution: Replacement of coil springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+

Electrical

• Battery Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty starting, frequent jump starts, dimming lights, battery drain.
  • Solution: Battery replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
• Faulty SAM Unit (Signal Acquisition Module)
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent electrical problems, including malfunctioning lights, wipers, turn signals, and central locking.
  • Solution: Replacement or reprogramming of the SAM unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1200+
• Wiring Harness Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent electrical issues, short circuits, malfunctioning lights or accessories. Commonly found in areas exposed to the elements.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of damaged wiring harness sections.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ (depending on severity and location)

Exterior

• Door Handle Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty opening the door from the exterior, broken handle mechanism.
  • Solution: Replacement of the door handle assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+

Interior

• Window Regulator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Window not rolling up or down, grinding noises, or window falling into the door.
  • Solution: Replacement of the window regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+

Recalls

• Recalls: None Found

Summary The 2005 Smart Fortwo can be a fun and economical vehicle, particularly for city driving, but potential buyers should be aware of the common issues. The most significant problems often revolve around the transmission, which can be costly to repair. Electrical issues, especially those related to the SAM unit, are also common. Engine oil leaks and turbocharger failures are additional points to consider. While some repairs are relatively inexpensive, others can become quite costly, making a pre-purchase inspection highly recommended.