Smart Fortwo (450) Problems by Year
The original Fortwo is tiny and clever, but it is also the most fragile. It uses a 600cc or 700cc turbocharged 3-cylinder engine. In the UK, many have succumbed to engine wear or electrical "death by water," making a well-maintained example a rare find.
Select a year below to see the specific problems affecting that model year, with estimated repair costs and severity ratings.
2
Year Periods
4
Known Issues
3
Serious Faults
1
Moderate Issues
Select a Year Period
Browse Smart Fortwo (450) in our Directory
View MOT history, registration data, and reliability scores for the Smart Smart Fortwo (450).
View Smart Fortwo (450) DirectoryBuying Tips for the Smart Fortwo (450)
- ✓Prioritize cars with a documented engine rebuild if the mileage is over 60,000.
- ✓Pull back the carpets in both footwells to check for moisture or rust near the SAM unit (fuse box).
- ✓Check that all six spark plugs have been changed recently, not just the top three.
- ✓Ensure the "G-Box" shifts through all gears using both the stick and paddles (if fitted).