Is the 2017 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 2017 Smart Fortwo?

The most-reported component is electrical system, accounting for 57% of complaints on file.

How many recalls does the 2017 Smart Fortwo have?

1 recall on file for this model year.

2017 Smart Fortwo

○ Not enough data

2017 Smart Fortwo
RENDERED 2026-11-01T12:47:25.496Z

Only 7 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 7 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict. The data below is complete but unranked.

How is this computed?

Complaints: 7
Recalls: 1
Investigations: 1
Top problem: —

Complaints per year

2017: 7 complaints

View as data table

Year	Complaints
2005	2
2008	140
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 7 complaints on file for this model year — too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.

Electrical system

4 of 7 total reports mention: electrical system.

Show complaint excerpts

Tl* the contact owns a 2017 Smart for two. While the vehicle was in reverse, the contact heard an abnormal noise coming from the rear of the vehicle. The rear exterior lighting and rear wiper warning indicator illuminated.

NHTSA ODI report, 2018-09-06

Also filed under Visibility/wiper

Tl* the contact owns a 2017 Smart Fortwo. The contact stated that the vehicle did not fully charge to the manufacturer recommended mileage range.

NHTSA ODI report, 2018-02-13

Steering

2 of 7 total reports mention: steering.

Show complaint excerpts

What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? Driver Side front wheel / maybe steering rack / etc.

NHTSA ODI report, 2025-05-15

Also filed under Wheels and suspension

Tl* the contact owns a 2017 Smart Fortwo. The contact received notification of NHTSA campaign number: 17V447000 (Steering); however, the parts to do the repair were unavailable.

NHTSA ODI report, 2017-10-11

Wheels

1 of 7 total reports mentions: wheels.

Visibility/wiper

1 of 7 total reports mentions: visibility/wiper.

Suspension

1 of 7 total reports mentions: suspension.

Safety timeline

1 recall · 1 investigation · oldest first

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

R

2017-10-13Steering17V447000 Mercedes-Benz USA LLC. (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2017 smart fortwo and smart fortwo Cabriolet vehicles. Casting imperfections may result in the failure of the left front axle steering knuckle.

Remedy: MBUSA will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the left front axle steering knuckle, replacing any from the affected batch, free of charge. The recall October 13, 2017. Owners may contact smart customer service at 1-877-496-3691.

Check if this car was fixed →
I
2023-01-27Defect petitionClosed 2023-08-07 Pedestrian alert sounds

Buy-smart checklist

2017 Smart Fortwo — pre-purchase inspection

Inspect

Electrical system: 4 reports on file for this year.
Steering: 2 reports on file for this year.
Wheels: 1 report on file for this year.

Verify these recalls were completed

Recall 17V447000 · Steering

FAQ

Is the 2017 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 2017 Smart Fortwo?: The most-reported component is electrical system, accounting for 57% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 2017 Smart Fortwo have?: 1 recall on file for this model year.

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