At the shop, Smart engine issues have a recognizable signature. 63 documented complaints across 3 year-model entries from 2008 to 2011 is consistent with what we see come in. The 2008 Smart Fortwo is the standout — roughly 63% of the engine complaint volume on Smart's record traces to that year-model. 19 fire reports on the federal record — not common in this category but documented and worth weight. Repair exposure averages $3,100, which is meaningful money outside warranty. Budget for a real pre-purchase inspection — compression and leakdown test, not just a code scan. Both are cheap and tell you what is left in the engine.
ProblemsByVin SMART / ENGINE
3 model-year entries · 2008–2011
Smart engine problems
63 owner complaints filed with NHTSA against Smart vehicles for engine issues. 1 active recall campaign. See engine across all makes →
Complaints
63
Recalls
1
Year-models
3
Avg fix
$3,100
19fires
Worst-affected Smart model-years for engine Top 3 by complaint volume
1 2 3
2008 Smart Fortwo
40 complaints · ~$3,100 severe
2009 Smart Fortwo
20 complaints · 1 recall · ~$3,100 severe
2011 Smart Fortwo
3 complaints · ~$3,100 severe
Active recalls — Smart engine 1 on file
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.
Common questions
How many Smart engine complaints are on file with NHTSA?
63 complaints across 3 model-year entries from 2008 to 2011. 1 active recall campaigns cover engine issues across the Smart lineup.
Which Smart model has the most engine complaints?
The 2008 Smart Fortwo leads with 40 complaints in this category. Next: 2009 Fortwo (20) and 2011 Fortwo (3).
What does it cost to fix Smart engine problems?
Independent shops average $3,100 for engine repairs across the Smart lineup. Dealer pricing tends to run twenty to forty percent higher. Specific cost depends on the failure mode and parts availability.
Are there Smart engine recalls?
Yes — 1 active recall campaign covers engine on Smart vehicles. Recall fixes are free regardless of mileage or warranty status. The list below shows current campaigns with their NHTSA numbers.
Related
Complaint and recall data sourced from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) public records database.
Editorial commentary written by Shop Foreman, an independent contributor to ProblemsByVin
and not affiliated with Smart.
Severity ratings derive from reported crashes, fires, injuries, and fatalities on the NHTSA complaint and recall record.
Repair cost averages reflect independent-shop pricing and may differ in your area.