2007 Smart Fortwo

The 2007 Smart Fortwo is a rear-engine, rear-wheel-drive microcar known for its compact size and fuel efficiency. In the US market, it came with a 1.0-liter three-cylinder gasoline engine producing around 70 horsepower and 68 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 5-speed automated manual transmission. People like the Smart Fortwo for its ease of parking in urban environments and its unique styling. Common dislikes include its jerky transmission, limited cargo space, and questionable safety in high-speed accidents.

Engine

1.0L Three-Cylinder Gasoline Engine

• Engine Misfires/Check Engine Light
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine misfires, rough idling, and the check engine light illuminating. Often caused by faulty spark plugs, ignition coils, or a vacuum leak.
  • Solution: Replace faulty spark plugs or ignition coils. Inspect and repair any vacuum leaks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks from various engine seals and gaskets, leading to low oil levels and potential engine damage.
  • Solution: Replace worn-out gaskets and seals. Common areas include the valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket, and crankshaft seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Overheating
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine overheating, especially during hot weather or prolonged idling. Caused by a failing water pump, thermostat, or radiator fan.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty water pump, thermostat, or radiator fan. Flush and refill the cooling system.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Automated Manual Transmission

• Jerky Shifting/Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: Abrupt and jerky shifts, hesitation during acceleration, and difficulty finding the correct gear.
  • Solution: Perform a transmission adaptation reset using a diagnostic tool. In some cases, replacing the clutch actuator motor or the entire transmission may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200 for adaptation reset. $500 - $1500+ for actuator replacement or transmission rebuild/replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Transmission Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Complete transmission failure, resulting in the inability to shift gears or move the vehicle.
  • Solution: Replacing the transmission is often the only solution.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2000 - $4000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Worn Suspension Components
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noises from the suspension, uneven tire wear, and poor handling.
  • Solution: Replace worn shocks, struts, ball joints, tie rod ends, or control arm bushings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+ (depending on the components replaced)
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Frequent battery drain, difficulty starting the engine, and the need for jump starts.
  • Solution: Replace the battery with a new one. Check for parasitic draws on the electrical system.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Wiring Harness Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent electrical issues, such as lights flickering, gauges malfunctioning, or the engine stalling. Caused by damaged or corroded wiring harnesses.
  • Solution: Repair or replace damaged sections of the wiring harness. Clean corroded electrical connections.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Convertible Top Issues (Cabrio Model)
  • Description/Symptoms: Convertible top failing to open or close properly, leaks around the top seals, and excessive wind noise.
  • Solution: Repair or replace damaged top mechanisms, seals, or motors. Adjust the top alignment.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Panel Alignment Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Gaps and misalignment of body panels, especially around the tridion safety cell. This is generally a cosmetic issue but can worsen over time.
  • Solution: Realign or replace body panels.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Air Conditioning Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Air conditioning system not blowing cold air or weak airflow.
  • Solution: Recharge the refrigerant, replace faulty compressors, condensers, or evaporators. Check for leaks in the system.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2007 Smart Fortwo, while offering fuel efficiency and easy parking, presents owners with several common issues. The most notable problems are related to the automated manual transmission, which is known for jerky shifting and potential failures, leading to significant repair costs. Other issues include engine problems like misfires and oil leaks, as well as electrical and suspension concerns. The severity of these problems ranges from minor inconveniences to major mechanical failures, with repair costs varying accordingly. Overall, potential buyers should be aware of these common issues and factor in potential maintenance costs when considering a 2007 Smart Fortwo.