Smart Forfour (453) Problems by Year
The second-generation Smart Forfour (Type 453) returned to the brand's roots, utilizing a rear-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout shared entirely with the Renault Twingo Mk3. This layout provided incredible packaging, allowing for a spacious cabin and an astonishingly tight turning circle in a very short car. In the UK, it serves as an excellent, highly maneuverable city car that can comfortably carry four adults on short trips. The introduction of the EQ (electric) version made it a popular choice for urban commuting. Reliability is robust, sharing its mechanicals with Renault, though the ride is noticeably firm. It is ideal for city families or those who need ultimate maneuverability and four doors.
Select a year below to see the specific problems affecting that model year, with estimated repair costs and severity ratings.
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Browse Smart Forfour (453) in our Directory
View MOT history, registration data, and reliability scores for the Smart Smart Forfour (453).
View Smart Forfour (453) DirectoryBuying Tips for the Smart Forfour (453)
- ✓On petrol models, check the boot floor temperature after a test drive; the engine sits directly underneath and poor insulation can cause the boot to get very hot.
- ✓Test the turning circle at full lock; listen for any clunking from the steering rack.
- ✓Verify the operation of the manual gearbox or the Twinamic dual-clutch; the Twinamic is vastly superior to older Smart automatics but check for hesitation.
- ✓Check the infotainment screen for dead pixels and ensure smartphone mirroring works reliably.
- ✓On EQ (electric) models, verify the health of the 12V auxiliary battery, as failure will immobilize the car.
- ✓Inspect the front bonnet cover (which slides forward) to ensure the retaining straps are intact.