2011 Smart Fortwo

○ Not enough data
2011 Smart Fortwo
RENDERED 2026-11-01T14:45:02.694Z

Only 16 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict.

This verdict reflects complaint volume compared to this model's typical year. Recalls and safety issues below apply regardless of the verdict — always check them.

Only 16 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict. The data below is complete but unranked.

Complaints
16

Too few to rank

Recalls
0

None on file

Investigations
1

Opened by NHTSA

Top problem
—

Not enough data

Complaints per year

2005: 2 complaints 2005 2008: 140 complaints 2009: 100 complaints 2009 2010: 6 complaints 2011: 16 complaints 2011 16 2012: 8 complaints 2013: 25 complaints 2013 2014: 13 complaints 2015: 6 complaints 2015 2016: 21 complaints 2017: 7 complaints 2017 2018: 1 complaint 2019: 1 complaint 2019
2005: 2 complaints 2005 2008: 140 complaints 2008 2009: 100 complaints 2009 2010: 6 complaints 2010 2011: 16 complaints 2011 16 2012: 8 complaints 2012 2013: 25 complaints 2013 2014: 13 complaints 2014 2015: 6 complaints 2015 2016: 21 complaints 2016 2017: 7 complaints 2017 2018: 1 complaint 2018 2019: 1 complaint 2019
2005: 2 complaints 2005 2008: 140 complaints 2008 2009: 100 complaints 2009 2010: 6 complaints 2010 2011: 16 complaints 2011 16 2012: 8 complaints 2012 2013: 25 complaints 2013 2014: 13 complaints 2014 2015: 6 complaints 2015 2016: 21 complaints 2016 2017: 7 complaints 2017 2018: 1 complaint 2018 2019: 1 complaint 2019

2011: 16 complaints

View as data table
YearComplaints
20052
2008140
2009100
20106
201116
20128
201325
201413
20156
201621
20177
20181
20191

Known problem areas

Only 16 complaints on file for this model year — too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.

Engine

5 of 16 total reports mention: engine.

FIRE

Seat belts

4 of 16 total reports mention: seat belts.

Show complaint excerpts

The driver side seat belt latch has failed for the second time in 2 years. The male end can not be inserted into the female end.

NHTSA ODI report, 2018-10-27

The metal seat belt connector frayed in to two pieces. Replaced with OEM part. It frayed again. It's a 2011 driven by a 75 yr.old senior citizen. Mercedes accused owner of maliciously cutting cable. Extreme safety hazzard.

NHTSA ODI report, 2018-07-31

Also filed under Electrical system

Electrical system

4 of 16 total reports mention: electrical system.

Service brakes

2 of 16 total reports mention: service brakes.

CRASH
Show complaint excerpts

Stopped at a red light behind other car. Vehicle rolled forward while foot was on brake into other stopped vehicle.

NHTSA ODI report, 2012-05-13

Also filed under Vehicle speed control

Power train

2 of 16 total reports mention: power train.

Safety timeline

No recalls on file for this model year.

0 recalls · 1 investigation · oldest first

To check one car, enter its VIN on the NHTSA recall page. Check a VIN →

  1. I
    2023-01-27Defect petitionClosed 2023-08-07 Pedestrian alert sounds

Buy-smart checklist

2011 Smart Fortwo — pre-purchase inspection

Inspect

  • Engine: 5 reports on file for this year.
  • Seat belts: 4 reports on file for this year.
  • Electrical system: 4 reports on file for this year.

FAQ

Is the 2011 Smart Fortwo reliable?
There isn't enough NHTSA complaint data on file yet to give this model year a verdict.
What are the most common problems with the 2011 Smart Fortwo?
The most-reported component is engine, accounting for 31% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 2011 Smart Fortwo have?
No recalls are on file for this model year.

Data updated 2026-09-22 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.