2018 Smart Forfour

The 2018 Smart Forfour is a quirky and compact city car known for its nimble handling and ease of parking. Available engine options included a 1.0-liter naturally aspirated three-cylinder engine producing around 71 horsepower and 67 lb-ft of torque, a 0.9-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine generating approximately 89 horsepower and 100 lb-ft of torque, and an all-electric powertrain in some markets. Transmission choices typically included a five-speed manual or a six-speed dual-clutch automatic. Owners often appreciate its small size for urban environments and distinctive styling, while common complaints revolve around its limited cargo space, firm ride, and somewhat underpowered engine options.

Electric Motor

Electric Motor

• Battery Degradation
  • Description/Symptoms: Gradual reduction in battery capacity over time, leading to decreased range. Owners report a noticeable drop in the maximum range the vehicle can achieve on a full charge.
  • Solution: Battery replacement or individual cell replacement/rebalancing.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix:
  • Recalls: None Found
• Charging Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulties with charging, including slow charging speeds, failure to charge at all, or error messages displayed on the dashboard. This can stem from issues with the charging port, onboard charger, or charging cable.
  • Solution: Diagnosis and repair or replacement of the charging port, onboard charger, or charging cable.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix:
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Dual-Clutch Automatic

• Rough Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Jerky or hesitant gear changes, particularly at low speeds. The transmission may exhibit a noticeable “clunk” or “thud” during shifts.
  • Solution: Software update, transmission fluid change, or replacement of faulty solenoids or clutch packs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix:
  • Recalls: None Found
• Transmission Slippage
  • Description/Symptoms: The engine revs higher than normal during acceleration without a corresponding increase in speed. This indicates that the transmission is not properly engaging the gears.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the transmission, including inspection of clutch packs and valve body.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix:
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Worn Suspension Components
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noises from the suspension, particularly when driving over bumps or uneven surfaces. The vehicle may also exhibit excessive body roll during cornering.
  • Solution: Replacement of worn shock absorbers, struts, bushings, or ball joints.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The touchscreen display freezes, becomes unresponsive, or experiences glitches. Bluetooth connectivity problems and navigation system errors are also common.
  • Solution: Software update, reset of the infotainment system, or replacement of the head unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix:
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sensor Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: Issues with parking sensors, tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS), or other electronic sensors. These malfunctions can result in warning lights on the dashboard and inaccurate readings.
  • Solution: Diagnosis and replacement of the faulty sensor(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $400+ (per sensor)
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Door Handle Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty opening the doors, particularly in cold weather. The door handles may feel stiff or break easily.
  • Solution: Lubrication of the door handle mechanism or replacement of the faulty handle.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+ (per handle)
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Rattling Noises
  • Description/Symptoms: Various rattling or squeaking noises emanating from the dashboard, door panels, or other interior trim pieces. These noises can be distracting and difficult to locate.
  • Solution: Tightening loose trim pieces, applying sound-deadening material, or replacing damaged components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix:
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2018 Smart Forfour can present several issues, ranging from battery degradation and charging issues in the electric model to transmission problems in the gasoline-powered versions. Suspension and electrical problems are also common, while some owners report issues with exterior and interior components. The severity and cost of repairs can vary significantly depending on the specific issue and the extent of the damage.