There are no safety recalls for the 2013 Smart Fortwo, but owners have filed 25 complaints with NHTSA.
2013 Smart Fortwo problems reported by owners
| Problem area | Reports | |
|---|
| Seat Belts | 7 | |
| Engine | 6 | |
| Power Train | 5 | |
| Electrical System | 3 | |
| Structure | 2 | |
| Seats | 2 | |
| Unknown or Other | 2 | |
| Visibility/Wiper | 1 | |
| Equipment Adaptive/Mobility | 1 | |
| Tires | 1 | |
| Visibility | 1 | |
| Vehicle Speed Control | 1 | |
Most reported parts
- Structure › Body — 2
- Visibility › Windshield — 1
Typical mileage at the time of the problem: 13,000 miles (median of owner reports).
Problems that are not covered by a recall are paid repairs; labor rates follow local mechanic pay — see what auto mechanics earn in each state.
Recent 2013 Smart Fortwo complaints
Owner reports filed with NHTSA, as written (personal details removed). Complaints are not verified by NHTSA.
Seat Belts · reported Jun 14, 2022
The drivers side seatbelt connecting floor (I think it's the belt force limiter) has a cable that has broken off. This is the 2nd time this has happened to my SmartCar. It is a design flaw because the cable runs against the metal of the seat cutting thru the cable. It isn't usually noticed until it breaks off making the seatbelt complete become broken from the floor. Additionally, SmartCars including this one have a known issue where AirBags become I op (light on) due to connection issue under seat. So now I have no restraints in my car.
Electrical System · reported Nov 2, 2021
Software for power control module is not correspond to the series level Software configuration. Basically it doesn't want to take charge due to the Software issues from manufacturer.
Structure · at 1 miles · reported Nov 28, 2020
Regarding lightning: water/humidity had access to the sam unit and the right-side signals/stop light stopped working. The vehicle was in motion when it suddenly stopped working. Regarding body/other: some of the convertible-roof steel frame/bars got bent when closing the top and the bent bars would prevent the top from closing unless you forced the steel/metal bars.
Power Train · at 14,300 miles · reported Sep 12, 2020
Driver seatbelt will not stay in tension ring. At times stuck in park & when unstuck will not engage any gear and stopping at red light while in drive soon after starting car it will not move when accelerator is engaged. In all cases engine must be turned off then turn to power on only for 10 to twenty minutes during which eventually clicking/clunking sounds are heard. After hearing these sounds start and shift. Repeat sometimes twice before transmission unlocks. You must leave one hour early to work or appointments anticipating transmission lockup and reset process. Using the yellow lever…
Seat Belts · at 110,000 miles · reported Jun 4, 2020
The driver side seat belt mount, which in this case is a steel cable, has mostly broken and frayed rendering it unsafe to drive. In the event of an accident, it would certainly break completely. I only noticed it yesterday while cleaning, the breakage would've happened while driving it. I've contacted smart USA, and gotten no response. I've contacted mercedes USA, and they tell me that my warranty has run out, they can't do anything. Even though this is a mandatory safety feature that has completely failed from normal use.
Frequently asked questions
Does the 2013 Smart Fortwo have any recalls?
No. NHTSA has no safety recalls for the 2013 Smart Fortwo as of this update. Check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls for the latest status.
What is the most common problem with the 2013 Smart Fortwo?
Owners report seat belts problems most often (7 reports), followed by engine (6). The typical mileage when problems were reported is about 13,000 miles.
Are Smart recall repairs free?
Yes. Safety recall repairs are free at authorized Smart dealers, whether you are the first owner or bought the car used.