2018 Smart Fortwo

The 2018 Smart Fortwo is a quirky and compact two-seater vehicle known for its exceptional maneuverability and fuel efficiency, making it a favorite for city dwellers. The 2018 Fortwo comes in both gasoline and electric versions. The gasoline version is powered by a turbocharged 0.9-liter three-cylinder engine producing 89 horsepower and 100 lb-ft of torque paired with a six-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. The electric version uses an electric motor with a single-speed transmission. People often appreciate its easy parking and unique style, but some find the ride quality and limited cargo space to be drawbacks. This compilation focuses on the known issues associated with the 2018 Smart Fortwo.

Electric Motor

Electric Motor

• Electric Drive System Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: Warning lights illuminate on the dashboard related to the electric drive system. Reduced power or complete failure to start or drive.
  • Solution: Diagnosing the specific fault code will identify the affected component which could be the motor, inverter, or high-voltage battery. Repair/replacement of the faulty component will restore functionality.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $5000+ (depending on component needing replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Reduced Range
  • Description/Symptoms: A noticeable decrease in the vehicle’s range compared to its original specifications, even after a full charge. This could be caused by battery degradation over time.
  • Solution: Full battery diagnostics to assess battery health and identify any faulty modules. Consider battery rebalancing, individual module replacement, or full battery pack replacement depending on the severity of the issue.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $8000+ (depending on the extent of battery replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

Electric Motor

• Sudden Slowdown/Speed Decrease
  • Description/Symptoms: The vehicle may suddenly decrease speed or lose power while driving with no warning.
  • Solution: Take the vehicle in for diagnosis and repair.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Premature Suspension Component Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Due to the vehicle’s short wheelbase, some owners experience premature wear of suspension components like shocks, struts, and bushings. This manifests as excessive bouncing, clunking noises, and degraded handling.
  • Solution: Inspect suspension components regularly. Replace worn shocks, struts, or bushings with high-quality replacements. Consider upgrading to more robust aftermarket components for improved durability.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Faulty Window Switch
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported issues with the power window switch, causing the window to either not operate or operate intermittently.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty window switch.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Rattling Noises
  • Description/Symptoms: Reports of rattling noises emanating from the dashboard or rear hatch area, particularly when driving on rough roads.
  • Solution: Locating the source of the rattle and applying sound-deadening material or tightening loose panels. This may require professional assistance to diagnose accurately.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $300+

Exterior

• Panel Gap Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Inconsistent panel gaps can lead to wind noise at highway speeds or water leaks into the cabin.
  • Solution: Realignment of body panels by a body shop to achieve proper fit and seal.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+

Summary The 2018 Smart Fortwo Electric generally has a good reliability record, but some issues reported included electric drive system malfunction, reduced range and suspension wear. While some problems might be relatively inexpensive to fix, others related to the electric motor can be costly, so a thorough pre-purchase inspection is recommended.