smart fortwo 450 facelift 2 coupé, 61 PS, 6-speed automated manual, rear-wheel drive (2004–2007)

Research for this car

• Generation guide smart fortwo 450 (1998-2007): known problems and buying guide

  Gearbox shifts, oil loss and turbo damage are the main risks. Check the gears, the oil level and the frame before you buy.

Known issues for this car

Before you buy this car

From the generation guide

1. Test the gear changes. Drive from a standstill, in stop-and-go traffic, and make several up and down shifts. Jerky or late shifts, a refused gear or the three flashing bars mean a clutch or actuator fault. Ask for proof that the gearbox was re-adapted after clutch work. That check needs a scanner.
2. Check the oil. Look at the dipstick and under the engine, and check the rear engine bay for oil traces. A low level or traces mean oil loss. Ask for oil change records.
3. Look at the turbo. Check for oil leaks at the turbocharger and its hoses. Ask for records of any turbo work.
4. Check the frame on a lift. Look at the welds and sills of the Tridion frame (the steel safety cell), the subframe, the brake lines and the rear exhaust. Holed or flaking metal is a bad result.
5. Check the charging. Measure the battery at rest with a multimeter, not a scanner. 12.4 to 12.7 volts is normal. Look for corrosion on the earth points and the relay box under the driver's seat.
6. Look for water. Check the door seals and the rubber strip by the rear hatch wiper for wear. A damp carpet or wet footwell means a seal job.
7. Give the VIN to a Mercedes or smart dealer and ask for open and past recall campaigns. ADAC lists several steering recalls between 1999 and 2007.

Running costs

ADAC figures for 15,000 km a year over 60 months

ADAC versions