2016 Smart Fortwo

The 2016 Smart Fortwo is a quirky and compact two-seater car designed for urban environments. It offered a tight turning radius, easy parking, and fuel efficiency. For the 2016 model year, the Smart Fortwo was available with a 0.9L turbocharged three-cylinder engine producing 89 horsepower and 100 lb-ft of torque. It was paired with either a 5-speed manual or a 6-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. Owners often appreciate its small size and maneuverability, while downsides commonly cited are its limited cargo space, somewhat rough ride, and polarizing styling.

Electric Motor

Electric Motor

• Battery Capacity Reduction
  • Description/Symptoms: Over time, the battery capacity of the electric Smart Fortwo decreases, resulting in a shorter driving range. The driver will notice the battery discharging quickly and have to charge the battery more frequently.
  • Solution: Battery replacement or reconditioning.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $8,000 - $12,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Charging Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The electric Smart Fortwo may experience issues with charging, such as failure to charge, slow charging, or errors during the charging process.
  • Solution: Diagnosis of the charging system, which may involve replacing the onboard charger, charging port, or related wiring.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Dual-Clutch Automatic Transmission

• Rough Shifting/Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: Owners have reported rough or jerky shifting, especially at lower speeds. Some experience hesitation or delays in gear engagement.
  • Solution: Transmission control module (TCM) reprogramming or replacement, clutch adjustment, or in more severe cases, transmission replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Transmission Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: The transmission may slip between gears or fail to properly engage, causing a loss of power.
  • Solution: Could be caused by low transmission fluid, or failing parts. Needs transmission replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Worn Suspension Components
  • Description/Symptoms: Premature wear of shocks, struts, and bushings leading to a bumpy ride, poor handling, and unusual noises.
  • Solution: Replacement of worn shocks, struts, and bushings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Headlight Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Headlights that flicker, dim, or fail prematurely. This could be due to faulty bulbs, wiring issues, or a failing headlight module.
  • Solution: Bulb replacement, wiring repair, or headlight module replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sensor Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: Various sensors (e.g., ABS, TPMS) may malfunction, triggering warning lights and potentially affecting vehicle performance.
  • Solution: Diagnosis and replacement of the faulty sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Rattling Noises
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive rattling from the dashboard, door panels, or rear hatch area.
  • Solution: Securing loose panels, adding padding to reduce vibrations, or replacing damaged clips/fasteners.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2016 Smart Fortwo can present a range of issues, from electrical glitches and battery issues to transmission concerns and interior rattles. The severity of these issues can vary, and the costs to repair them can range from relatively minor to substantial, especially for battery replacement in the electric model or major transmission work. Potential buyers should be aware of these common problems and thoroughly inspect any used 2016 Smart Fortwo before purchasing.