Twinamic Gearbox Judder
ModerateGearbox & TransmissionThe dual-clutch transmission can develop a judder, especially when pulling away from a standstill or in heavy traffic.
Est. Repair Cost: £300–£1,200
Reliability GuideCommon Problems with the
Common Problems with the
2015 Smart Forfour (453)
The Forfour 453 arrived in 2015 as a four-door, rear-engined city car sharing its platform with the Renault Twingo. It offered a more practical option than the Fortwo with the same clever rear-engine layout and tight turning circle, though the Twinamic gearbox and suspension are known weak points.
What changed for 2015
- •UK launch
- •Rear-engined layout shared with Renault Twingo
- •0.9 turbo and 1.0 NA petrol engines
- •Twinamic dual-clutch gearbox option
- •Four doors with genuine rear-seat access
Common MOT watch-outs
- !Twinamic gearbox judder at low speeds
- !Rear door handle cable failure
- !Rapid brake pad wear — typically 25k–30k miles
- !Suspension bottoming out on speed bumps
3
Known Issues
0
Serious
2
Moderate
1
Minor
All Known Issues
Suspension Bottoming Out and Rapid Wear
ModerateSuspension & ChassisThe suspension is quite stiff and can bottom out on speed bumps or rough roads. Front suspension arms and silent blocks wear rapidly, especially with kerb impacts in city driving.
Est. Repair Cost: £200–£500
Rear Door Handle Cable Failure
MinorBodywork & RustThe cables inside the rear doors can snap or become detached, meaning the door cannot be opened from the outside.
Est. Repair Cost: £100–£200
Buying Tips for 2015 Smart Forfour (453)
- ✓The 0.9 turbo is the better choice for carrying four passengers
- ✓Test the Twinamic gearbox in stop-start traffic — judder worsens when hot
- ✓Check all door handles from inside and outside