2010 Smart Fortwo

The 2010 Smart Fortwo is a compact city car known for its fuel efficiency and small size, making it easy to park in crowded urban environments. It’s equipped with a 1.0-liter three-cylinder engine producing around 70 horsepower and 68 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 5-speed automated manual transmission. While appreciated for its maneuverability and gas mileage, owners often dislike its jerky transmission, limited cargo space, and susceptibility to crosswinds at higher speeds.

Engine

1.0L Three-Cylinder Engine

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks can occur from various seals and gaskets, including the valve cover gasket and oil pan gasket. Symptoms include visible oil leaks under the car and a burning oil smell.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking gasket or seal.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Catalytic Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The catalytic converter can fail prematurely, leading to poor emissions, reduced performance, and a check engine light.
  • Solution: Replace the catalytic converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Automated Manual Transmission

• Jerky Shifting/Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: A common complaint is rough or jerky shifting, especially between first and second gear. Hesitation upon acceleration is also frequently reported.
  • Solution: Some have reported improvement with transmission software updates or clutch actuator adjustment. In some cases, replacement of the clutch actuator or the entire transmission may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (software update) - $2000+ (transmission replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Clutch Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The clutch actuator is known to fail, causing difficulty shifting or preventing the car from shifting at all.
  • Solution: Replace the clutch actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Worn Suspension Components
  • Description/Symptoms: Premature wear of suspension components such as shocks, struts, and bushings can occur, leading to a bouncy ride, poor handling, and unusual noises.
  • Solution: Replace worn suspension components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Bulb Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Frequent bulb failures, particularly in the headlights and taillights.
  • Solution: Replace the affected bulb. Consider using higher-quality bulbs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $10 - $50+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Instrument Cluster Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Malfunctions in the instrument cluster, such as inaccurate readings or complete failure.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the instrument cluster.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Panel Alignment Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Gaps and misalignment between body panels can occur.
  • Solution: Adjust or replace body panels.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Rattling and Squeaking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cabin noise is a common complaint. Rattling and squeaking noises can originate from various interior components.
  • Solution: Tighten loose components or apply noise dampening materials.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on the source of the noise, could range from $0 (DIY fix) to $200+ (professional repair).
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary The 2010 Smart Fortwo has some common issues, most notably related to the jerky automated manual transmission and potential clutch actuator failures. Engine issues, such as oil leaks and catalytic converter problems, can also arise. Suspension and electrical issues are also reported, but generally less frequent and less costly. Depending on the severity, the cost of repairs can vary greatly, but addressing the transmission issues can be particularly expensive. Potential buyers should be aware of these common problems and carefully inspect the vehicle before purchase.