2016 Smart Fortwo

Introduction:

The 2016 Smart Fortwo is a compact city car available with either a 1.0L gasoline engine paired with a 5-speed manual or 6-speed dual-clutch transmission, or an electric motor mated to a single-speed transmission. It offers a unique design, maneuverability, and fuel efficiency, but is known for its lack of power and limited interior space.

Engine

1.0L Gasoline Engine

• Oil Leaks: Leaking oil pan gasket or valve cover gasket
  • Description/Symptoms: Visible oil leak under the vehicle; low oil level
  • Solution: Replace the leaking gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Manual Transmission

• Shifting Difficulty: Difficulty shifting gears due to worn-out synchronizers
  • Description/Symptoms: Grating or grinding noises when shifting; hard to get into gear
  • Solution: Replace the synchronizers
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $700
  • Recalls: None Found

6-Speed Dual-Clutch Transmission

• Clutch Slipping: Transmission unable to engage gears
  • Description/Symptoms: Slipping or shuddering when accelerating; high engine RPM without corresponding vehicle speed
  • Solution: Replace the clutch assembly
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $1,500
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front Suspension Strut Mounts: Worn-out strut mounts cause noise and vibration
  • Description/Symptoms: Knocking or clunking noises when turning or going over bumps
  • Solution: Replace the strut mounts
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure: Alternator fails to charge the battery
  • Description/Symptoms: Dim headlights; difficulty starting the engine
  • Solution: Replace the alternator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain: Parasitic drain on the battery causes it to die prematurely
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle fails to start after sitting for a few days; battery dies frequently
  • Solution: Identify and fix the source of the parasitic drain
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rear Tail Light Condensation: Moisture buildup in the rear tail lights
  • Description/Symptoms: Visible condensation inside the tail lights; reduced visibility
  • Solution: Replace the faulty tail lights
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Instrument Cluster Failure: Malfunctioning instrument cluster causes incorrect readings or blank display
  • Description/Symptoms: Incorrect speed, fuel level, or other readings; no display on the cluster
  • Solution: Replace the instrument cluster
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $700
  • Recalls: None Found
• Heater Core Leak: Leaking heater core causes coolant loss and fogging inside the cabin
  • Description/Symptoms: Sweet-smelling coolant leak; fogging or condensation on the windshield
  • Solution: Replace the heater core
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2016 Smart Fortwo has a limited number of reported issues, most of which are relatively minor and inexpensive to fix. However, certain issues, such as clutch slipping and instrument cluster failure, can be more expensive to resolve. Overall, the Fortwo’s reliability is considered to be average, with a mix of minor and moderate issues.