2005 Smart Roadster

The 2005 Smart Roadster is a two-seater roadster produced by Smart. It was available with two engine options: a 0.7-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine and a 1.0-liter naturally aspirated three-cylinder engine. Both engines were paired with a five-speed automated manual transmission. The Smart Roadster was praised for its fuel efficiency and handling, but it was criticized for its cramped interior and lack of power.

Engine 0.7-liter Turbocharged Three-Cylinder Engine

• Oil Leaks: The camshaft cover gasket fails causing oil leaks. Replacing the gasket fixes the issue. $200 - $300+
• Timing Chain Failure: The timing chain can stretch and fail, causing the engine to lose power. Replacing the timing chain and tensioner fixes the issue. $1,000 - $1,500+

1.0-liter Naturally Aspirated Three-Cylinder Engine

• Head Gasket Failure: The head gasket can fail, causing coolant leaks and engine overheating. Replacing the head gasket fixes the issue. $1,000 - $1,500+

Transmission Five-Speed Automated Manual Transmission

• Shifting Problems: The transmission may have difficulty shifting gears, or it may slip out of gear. Replacing the transmission control module or the clutch fixes the issue. $500 - $1,000+
• Clutch Failure: The clutch can wear out prematurely, causing the transmission to slip or chatter. Replacing the clutch fixes the issue. $500 - $1,000+

Suspension

• Strut Failure: The front struts can fail, causing the vehicle to bounce or handle poorly. Replacing the struts fixes the issue. $400 - $600+
• Ball Joint Failure: The ball joints can wear out, causing the vehicle to wander or pull to one side. Replacing the ball joints fixes the issue. $200 - $400+

Electrical

• Battery Drain: The battery can drain prematurely, even when the vehicle is not in use. Replacing the battery or alternator fixes the issue. $200 - $500+
• Electrical Shorts: Electrical shorts can occur, causing various electrical problems. Repairing the shorts fixes the issue. The cost will vary depending on the location and severity of the shorts.

Exterior

• Sunroof Leaks: The sunroof seals can fail, causing water to leak into the cabin. Replacing the sunroof seals fixes the issue. $200 - $400+
• Tailgate Hinge Failure: The tailgate hinges can fail, causing the tailgate to sag or fall off. Replacing the hinges fixes the issue. $200 - $400+

Interior

• Power Window Failure: The power window motors or switches can fail, causing the windows to stop working. Replacing the motors or switches fixes the issue. $200 - $400+
• AC Compressor Failure: The AC compressor can fail, causing the air conditioning to stop working. Replacing the compressor fixes the issue. $500 - $1,000+
• Heater Core Failure: The heater core can fail, causing the heater to stop working. Replacing the heater core fixes the issue. $500 - $1,000+

Summary The 2005 Smart Roadster is a fun and fuel-efficient car, but it is not without its problems. The engine, transmission, and suspension components can all be problematic, and the electrical system is prone to shorts. The cost of repairs can be high, so it is important to factor this into the cost of ownership.