2007 Smart Forfour
The 2007 Smart Forfour is a subcompact hatchback known for its fuel efficiency and maneuverability. Available engine options included a range of gasoline and diesel engines. A popular gasoline engine was the 1.3L inline-4 producing around 95 horsepower and 88 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options included a 5-speed manual and a 4-speed automatic. Owners often appreciated the Forfour’s compact size for city driving and its distinctive styling. However, some common complaints included the firm ride, limited cargo space, and concerns about reliability.
Engine
1.3L Inline-4 Gasoline
- Oil Leaks
- Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks may occur from various seals and gaskets, leading to oil consumption and potential engine damage if not addressed. Visible oil spots under the car and a burning oil smell are common indicators.
- Solution: Replacing the affected gaskets or seals.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+, depending on the location of the leak.
- Recalls: None Found
- Engine Misfires
- Description/Symptoms: Misfires can be caused by worn spark plugs, faulty ignition coils, or vacuum leaks. Symptoms include rough idling, decreased fuel economy, and the engine light illuminating.
- Solution: Replacing the spark plugs, ignition coils, or repairing vacuum leaks.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $300+, depending on the cause.
- Recalls: None Found
Diesel Engines
No Issues Found
Transmission
4-Speed Automatic
- Harsh Shifting/Slipping
- Description/Symptoms: The transmission may exhibit harsh or delayed shifts, slipping between gears, or failure to engage a gear. This can be due to worn clutch packs, valve body issues, or low transmission fluid.
- Solution: Transmission flush, valve body repair or replacement, or complete transmission rebuild/replacement.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+ for fluid flush, $300 - $800+ for valve body, $1500 - $3000+ for rebuild/replacement.
- Recalls: None Found
5-Speed Manual
No Issues Found
Suspension
- Worn Suspension Bushings
- Description/Symptoms: Premature wear of the suspension bushings, leading to clunking noises, vibrations, and poor handling.
- Solution: Replacing the worn bushings.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $400+ per corner.
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Central Locking System Malfunctions
- Description/Symptoms: Failure of the central locking system to function properly, including the inability to lock or unlock the doors with the key fob or interior switch.
- Solution: Replacing faulty door lock actuators, repairing wiring issues, or replacing the central locking module.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+, depending on the component needing replacement.
- Recalls: None Found
- Instrument Cluster Issues
- Description/Symptoms: The instrument cluster may exhibit intermittent failures, such as flickering lights, incorrect readings, or complete loss of function.
- Solution: Repairing or replacing the instrument cluster.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+.
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Rust
- Description/Symptoms: Rust formation, especially on door seams, wheel arches, and underbody components.
- Solution: Rust removal, body repair, and painting.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+, depending on severity.
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Sunroof Issues
- Description/Symptoms: The sunroof mechanism may fail, causing it to be stuck open or closed.
- Solution: Repairing or replacing the sunroof motor or mechanism.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+.
- Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2007 Smart Forfour presents a mix of common issues ranging from minor inconveniences to potentially costly repairs. Engine oil leaks, transmission issues, and electrical problems are among the most frequently reported concerns. While some repairs may be relatively inexpensive, others, such as transmission rebuilds or replacements, can be quite costly. Potential buyers should carefully inspect the vehicle for signs of these common problems and consider a pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic.