Should I buy a 2009 Smart Fortwo with documented engine problems?

Depends on the price and the specific vehicle. Documented engine issues should be priced into the purchase — if the seller is asking full retail, negotiate down by the expected repair cost. A pre-purchase inspection from an independent shop tells you whether THIS specific vehicle has already shown the symptoms or not.

2009 Smart Fortwo engine problems

severe 20 complaints filed with NHTSA · avg repair $3,100

Complaints

Recalls

Crashes

Avg fix

$3,100

Related recalls

severe NHTSA 18V273000 27/04/2018

Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC

If the mat contacts hot exhaust system components, it can increase the risk of a fire.

Fix: MBUSA will notify owners, and dealers will replace the rear insulation mat with an improved one, free of charge. The recall began in July 2018. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2018060010.

What owners are reporting 3 most recent

engine · filed 11/05/2019

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2009 SMART FORTWO. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS INCLUDED IN AND REPAIRED PER NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 18V273000 (ENGINE, ENGINE COOLING). MERCEDES-BENZ OF WESTMINISTER (LOCATED AT 10391 WESTMINISTER BLVD, WESTMINISTER, CO 80020, 303-410-7800) PERFORMED THE REPAIR. AFTER THE REPAIR, THE VEHICLE BEGAN TO MAKE A BOOMING NOISE WHEN THE ENGINE AND/OR RADIO WERE ACTIVATED…

engine · filed 10/18/2019

2009 SMART FORTWO PURE/PASSION. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARD TO SAFETY NHTSA RECALL NOTICE #18V273. *AS THE CONSUMER STATED THE DEALER WAS TO ARRANGE HAVING THE VEHICLE REPAIRED LOCALLY DUE TO THE CONSUMER'S DISABILITY. THE DEALER DID NOT MAKE AN ARRANGEMENT THAT THE CONSUMER FOUND REASONABLE. *JS

engine · filed 10/09/2019

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2009 SMART FORTWO. WHILE DRIVING 25 MPH, THE CONTACT HEARD AN ABNORMAL NOISE AND THE ABS AND CHECK ENGINE WARNING INDICATORS ILLUMINATED. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 18V273000 (ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING). THE CONTACT STATED THAT MERCEDES-BENZ OF EDISON (LOCATED AT 910 US-1, EDISON, NJ 08817, (732) 394-1870) EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME…

Common questions

How serious is the engine problem on the 2009 Smart Fortwo?

It's a meaningful issue. 20 complaints have been filed and the failure mode causes operational problems for owners. Repairs average $3,100.

At what mileage does the engine typically fail?

Mileage data is limited for this issue. Owners report failures across a wide range, suggesting cause is more about driving conditions and maintenance than mileage alone.

What does it cost to fix?

Independent shops typically charge around $3,100 for engine repairs on this vehicle. Dealer pricing tends to run 20-40% higher. The exact figure depends on the specific failure mode, parts availability, and your local labor rates. If you're outside factory warranty, an extended service contract often covers this category.

Are there any recalls related to engine?

Yes — 1 active recall(s) cover engine issues on this vehicle. Recall fixes are always free regardless of mileage or warranty status. Use the VIN decoder at the top of the page to check if your specific vehicle is affected.