2007 Smart Fortwo
2007 Smart Fortwo
Overview
The 2007 Smart Fortwo, a subcompact city car, is known for its unique design and maneuverability. While generally appreciated for its urban practicality, like any vehicle, it has specific areas where owners have reported issues. This analysis focuses on documented technical reliability concerns beyond routine maintenance, examining common problems across its powertrain, suspension, electrical systems, and interior/exterior components. Understanding these potential weak points can help current and prospective owners anticipate and address maintenance needs, ensuring the longevity and optimal performance of their Smart Fortwo.
Engine
0.8L Turbocharged Diesel (OM660)
Turbocharger Failure
- Symptoms: Loss of power, whistling noises, black smoke from exhaust.
- Solution: Replacement of the turbocharger unit.
- Cost: $800 - $1500
Glow Plug Failure
- Symptoms: Difficulty starting, especially in cold weather, check engine light.
- Solution: Replacement of faulty glow plugs.
- Cost: $200 - $400
1.0L Naturally Aspirated Petrol
Oil Leaks
- Symptoms: Visible oil spots under the vehicle, low oil level, burning oil smell.
- Solution: Repair or replacement of leaking seals or gaskets.
- Cost: $300 - $600
1.0L Turbocharged Petrol
Overheating
- Symptoms: Temperature gauge rising to red, steam from engine bay, coolant loss.
- Solution: Inspection and repair of cooling system components (radiator, thermostat, water pump, hoses).
- Cost: $400 - $900
Transmission
6-Speed Automated Manual
Clutch Actuator Failure
- Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, jerky acceleration, transmission warning light, inability to engage gears.
- Solution: Replacement of the clutch actuator.
- Cost: $500 - $900
Transmission Fluid Leaks
- Symptoms: Leaking fluid from transmission casing, shifting problems, potential for transmission damage if not addressed.
- Solution: Repair or replacement of seals and gaskets, topping up fluid.
- Cost: $250 - $500
Suspension
Standard Chassis
Worn Ball Joints/Tie Rod Ends
- Symptoms: Clunking noises over bumps, vague steering, uneven tire wear.
- Solution: Replacement of worn ball joints and/or tie rod ends.
- Cost: $300 - $600
Electrical
General Electrical System
Alternator Failure
- Symptoms: Battery warning light illuminated, dimming headlights, electrical components malfunctioning, dead battery.
- Solution: Replacement of the alternator.
- Cost: $400 - $700
Fuse Box Issues
- Symptoms: Intermittent electrical problems, non-functioning accessories, blown fuses.
- Solution: Inspection and repair/replacement of fuse box or related wiring.
- Cost: $150 - $350
Exterior
Body Panels and Doors
Door Lock Actuator Failure
- Symptoms: Central locking system not working, doors not locking or unlocking remotely or manually.
- Solution: Replacement of faulty door lock actuator.
- Cost: $150 - $300
Interior
HVAC System
Blower Motor Failure
- Symptoms: No air coming from vents, or air only coming from certain vents, regardless of fan speed setting.
- Solution: Replacement of the blower motor or resistor.
- Cost: $200 - $450
Dashboard/Infotainment
Instrument Cluster Malfunctions
- Symptoms: Gauges not working, warning lights staying on, intermittent display issues.
- Solution: Repair or replacement of the instrument cluster.
- Cost: $300 - $700
Summary Verdict
The 2007 Smart Fortwo, while a charming and practical city car, exhibits some common reliability concerns, particularly within its powertrain and electrical systems. Owners have frequently reported issues with the automated manual transmission’s clutch actuator and various engine components like turbochargers and glow plugs, especially on diesel variants. Electrical gremlins, such as alternator failures and fuse box problems, are also noted. Suspension components like ball joints can wear prematurely. While interior and exterior issues are less frequent, they do occur. Despite these points, many Fortwos remain reliable daily drivers with diligent maintenance and timely repairs of these specific known issues.