2016 Smart Fortwo recalls and problems

The 2016 Smart Fortwo has 1 safety recall and 21 owner complaints filed with NHTSA. Recall repairs are free at any Smart dealer.

Recalls

Complaints

Crashes / fires

5 / 2

Injuries / deaths

7 / 0

Recalls may cover only some 2016 Smart Fortwo vehicles. Check your VIN at NHTSA ↗ to see open recalls for your exact car.

2016 Smart Fortwo recalls

Recall 17V-448: Parking Brake

Reported Jul 16, 2017 · 5,061 vehicles affected · Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC.

Problem: Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2016 smart fortwo vehicles. In these vehicles, the lock nut that secures the parking brake cable to the parking brake lever may loosen over time, resulting in increased parking brake lever travel before the parking brake engages.

Risk: As the parking brake lever travel increases, the holding force may decrease to a point where the vehicle is no longer safely secured in all parking situations, allowing the vehicle to unexpectedly move when parked on a slope, increasing the risk of a crash.

Fix: 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.

2016 Smart Fortwo problems reported by owners

Problem area	Reports
Engine	8
Fuel/Propulsion System	7
Electrical System	5
Service Brakes	4
Unknown or Other	3
Structure	2
Steering	2
Power Train	1
Engine and Engine Cooling	1
Visibility	1
Equipment	1
Wheels	1

Most reported parts

Structure › Body — 2
Engine and Engine Cooling › Exhaust System — 1
Visibility › Defroster/Defogger/Hvac System — 1
Equipment › Appliance › Air Conditioner — 1
Forward Collision Avoidance › Warnings — 1

Typical mileage at the time of the problem: 5,300 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 2016 Smart Fortwo complaints

Owner reports filed with NHTSA, as written (personal details removed). Complaints are not verified by NHTSA.

Engine · reported Mar 9, 2026

I have had it for 6 years. And it has been in for repair, at least 7 times in those somewhere around one time per year. Sometimes twice. All for heating 3 times same piece not sure what to do but it always has to do with no heat to car or overheating my insurance through carmax bout to end gonna cost me alot to keep it even though I love the car seems like a massive problem that mercedes should do something about I've called and got tge run a round

Engine · reported Jul 4, 2024

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. I have tried contacting Mercedes-Benz and the dealership where I bought tge car but they do nothing. I need help getting this issue repaired.

Engine · at 58,299 miles · reported Apr 29, 2024

The contact owns a 2016 Smart ForTwo. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the check engine warning light illuminated with a loud whirring noise. The contact took the vehicle to an independent mechanic who diagnosed that the air intake changeover valves had failed. The independent mechanic advised the contact that the parts needed to fix the vehicle were difficult to locate. The vehicle was repaired. The contact stated that about a month later, the check engine warning light illuminated again. The contact took the vehicle to the same independent mechanic who diagnosed…

Engine · reported Apr 14, 2023

The car just shuts off while I am driving. I can tell now when it is about to shut off. I have had this problem since I purchased the car in 2016. I have taken the car to the dealership and called Mercedes Benz several times and they will not do anything. I will die because the car is getting worse and shuts off more frequently now. Can you get Mercedes Benz to help me? They told me that they don't care if I die due to a bad product they sold me. Please help. Please, I am begging you I do not want to hurt someone else due to this bad car.

Steering · reported Mar 20, 2022

Since purchasing the car the power steering has been bad. The dealership where I purchased the car and Mercedes refused to fix the issue. There is electrical issues and the gas tank gauge and gas tank have been replaced 3 times. Please do not purchase a Smart Car thecmakers do not stand behind their product. I took it to Mercedes Hampton VA Auto Mall and they are so rude. I have almost died 4 times due to bot bring able to turn steering wheel.

Other Smart Fortwo years

2019 201720162015 2014 2013 2012 2011 2010 2009 2008

Compare all Smart Fortwo years · All Smart models

Frequently asked questions

Does the 2016 Smart Fortwo have any recalls?

Yes — NHTSA lists 1 recall for the 2016 Smart Fortwo: 17V-448 (parking brake). Not every vehicle is affected, so check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.

What is the most common problem with the 2016 Smart Fortwo?

Owners report engine problems most often (8 reports), followed by fuel/propulsion system (7). The typical mileage when problems were reported is about 5,300 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.