Smart Forfour (454) Problems by Year
The first-generation Smart Forfour (Type 454) was a conventional, front-engine, front-wheel-drive supermini developed alongside the Mitsubishi Colt. It abandoned the rear-engine layout of the Fortwo to offer a spacious, four-seat cabin with sliding rear seats and quirky two-tone plastic bodywork. In the UK, it was a slow seller and is now a rare sight, mostly remembered for its Brabus high-performance version. Reliability is generally very good thanks to the Mitsubishi-sourced engines and electronics, making it a dependable, if unconventional, cheap runaround. It suits budget buyers who want a reliable, practical small car that stands out from a typical Ford Fiesta.
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 (454) in our Directory
View MOT history, registration data, and reliability scores for the Smart Smart Forfour (454).
View Smart Forfour (454) DirectoryBuying Tips for the Smart Forfour (454)
- ✓Check the plastic body panels for cracking or severe fading, particularly the roof panels which suffer under UV light.
- ✓Listen for timing chain rattle on the Mitsubishi-sourced petrol engines, particularly on high-mileage cars.
- ✓Verify the operation of the automated manual "Softouch" gearbox (if fitted); it can be jerky and the clutch actuator is a known weak point.
- ✓Test the sliding rear seat mechanism to ensure it moves smoothly and locks securely into place.
- ✓Inspect the front suspension for knocking; drop links and anti-roll bar bushes wear quickly.
- ✓Check the central locking system, as the door lock actuators frequently fail.