2017 Smart Fortwo
2017 Smart Fortwo
Overview
The 2017 Smart Fortwo is a subcompact city car known for its maneuverability and compact size, making it ideal for urban environments. Reliability for this model year is generally considered good, with owners reporting fewer significant mechanical problems compared to some competitors. However, like any vehicle, there are specific areas that have seen more attention from repair shops. The focus for the Fortwo is typically on its unique powertrain and compact electrical systems. This analysis breaks down common issues by category, providing insights into potential repair needs and associated costs for owners.
Engine
1.0L Naturally Aspirated
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
0.9L Turbocharged
Turbocharger Wear
- Symptoms: Reduced engine power, whistling noises, increased oil consumption.
- Solution: Turbocharger replacement.
- Cost: $1,200 - $2,500
Transmission
5-Speed Automated Manual
Clutch Actuator Malfunction
- Symptoms: Jerky gear changes, difficulty shifting, warning lights on the dashboard.
- Solution: Clutch actuator adjustment or replacement.
- Cost: $500 - $1,000
Transmission Fluid Leaks
- Symptoms: Leaking fluid, potential for gear slippage or failure if not addressed.
- Solution: Seal replacement and fluid top-up.
- Cost: $300 - $600
Suspension
Standard Chassis
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
Electrical
Body Control Module (BCM)
BCM Glitches
- Symptoms: Intermittent issues with lights, power windows, or central locking; dashboard warning lights.
- Solution: BCM reprogramming or replacement.
- Cost: $400 - $800
Battery Drain
Parasitic Battery Drain
- Symptoms: Battery dies frequently, car won’t start.
- Solution: Diagnosis and repair of faulty electrical component causing drain.
- Cost: $200 - $500
Exterior
Body Panels & Doors
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
Interior
Infotainment System
Screen Freezing/Unresponsiveness
- Symptoms: Touchscreen becomes unresponsive or freezes.
- Solution: Software update or head unit replacement.
- Cost: $300 - $700
HVAC System
Blower Motor Failure
- Symptoms: No air coming from vents or intermittent fan speed.
- Solution: Blower motor replacement.
- Cost: $250 - $500
Summary Verdict
The 2017 Smart Fortwo generally exhibits good reliability, particularly with its naturally aspirated engine. Owners should be aware of potential issues with the turbocharged engine’s turbocharger and the automated manual transmission’s clutch actuator, which can lead to costly repairs. Electrical gremlins, such as BCM glitches and parasitic battery drain, are also noted concerns. While interior components like the infotainment screen and HVAC blower motor can occasionally fail, these are typically less critical than powertrain issues. Overall, for its intended urban use, the Fortwo offers a reasonably dependable ownership experience, provided routine maintenance is followed and potential problem areas are addressed promptly.