2016 Smart Fortwo
Only 21 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 21 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict. The data below is complete but unranked.
COMPLAINTS PER YEAR
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 2005 | 2 |
| 2008 | 139 |
| 2009 | 100 |
| 2010 | 6 |
| 2011 | 16 |
| 2012 | 8 |
| 2013 | 25 |
| 2014 | 13 |
| 2015 | 6 |
| 2016 | 21 |
| 2017 | 7 |
| 2018 | 1 |
| 2019 | 1 |
KNOWN PROBLEM AREAS
Only 21 complaints on file for this model year -- too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
8 of 21 total reports mention: engine.
CRASH INJURYShow complaint excerpts
Car shuts down while driving. This happens usually after quick stops or sudden starts like at a red light or when a car suddenly stops on front of me. I have had this issue happen to me several times.
NHTSA ODI report, 20240704
7 of 21 total reports mention: fuel/propulsion system.
CRASH FIRE INJURYShow complaint excerpts
Car shuts down while driving. This happens usually after quick stops or sudden starts like at a red light or when a car suddenly stops on front of me. I have had this issue happen to me several times.
NHTSA ODI report, 20240704
THE BRAKES ARE SLIPPING BAD. THEY HAVE BEEN SLIPPING SINCE I BOUGHT THE VEHICLE IN 2016. THE GAS TANK IS LEAKING AND HAS LEAKED INTO THE CAB OF THE CAR. THE GAS TANK HAS BEEN REPLACED 3 TIMES.
NHTSA ODI report, 20200909
I NOTICED THAT MY GAS GAUGE WAS GIVING ME INCORRECT READINGS. THE GAS TANK ACCORDING TO THE OWNERS MANUAL HOLDS 8+ GALLONS OF GAS. WHEN I GET A LOW FUEL WARNING IF I "FILL UP" THE TANK IT ONLY TAKES BETWEEN 5 AND 6 GALLONS.
NHTSA ODI report, 20160705
5 of 21 total reports mention: electrical system.
CRASH INJURYShow complaint excerpts
Car shuts down while driving. This happens usually after quick stops or sudden starts like at a red light or when a car suddenly stops on front of me. I have had this issue happen to me several times.
NHTSA ODI report, 20240704
4 of 21 total reports mention: service brakes.
CRASH FIRE INJURYShow complaint excerpts
THE BRAKES ARE SLIPPING BAD. THEY HAVE BEEN SLIPPING SINCE I BOUGHT THE VEHICLE IN 2016. THE GAS TANK IS LEAKING AND HAS LEAKED INTO THE CAB OF THE CAR. THE GAS TANK HAS BEEN REPLACED 3 TIMES.
NHTSA ODI report, 20200909
2 of 21 total reports mention: structure.
CRASHSAFETY TIMELINE
Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2016 smart fortwo vehicles.
Remedy: MBUSA will notify owners, and dealers will replace the parking brake cable lock nut, free of charge. The recall began September 20, 2017. Owners may contact smart customer service at 1-877-496-3691.
Campaign 17V448000 — check if this car was fixed
Pedestrian alert sounds
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
2016 Smart Fortwo — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for engine issues (8 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for fuel/propulsion system issues (7 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for electrical system issues (5 reports on file for this year).
- Verify recall 17V448000 (parking brake) has been completed.
FAQ
Is the 2016 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 2016 Smart Fortwo?
The most-reported component is engine, accounting for 38% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 2016 Smart Fortwo have?
1 recall on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-07-11 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.