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2017 Smart Fortwo recalls and problems

The 2017 Smart Fortwo has 1 safety recall and 7 owner complaints filed with NHTSA. Recall repairs are free at any Smart dealer.

Recalls
1
Complaints
7
Crashes / fires
0 / 0
Injuries / deaths
0 / 0

Recalls may cover only some 2017 Smart Fortwo vehicles. Check your VIN at NHTSA ↗ to see open recalls for your exact car.

2017 Smart Fortwo recalls

Recall 17V-447: Steering

Reported Jul 14, 2017 · 110 vehicles affected · Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC.

Problem: 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.

Risk: Failure of the left front axle steering knuckle could affect vehicle control, increasing the risk of a crash.

Fix: 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.

2017 Smart Fortwo problems reported by owners

Problem areaReports
Electrical System4
Steering2
Visibility/Wiper1
Exterior Lighting1
Seat Belts1
Suspension1
Wheels1
Power Train1
Engine1

Typical mileage at the time of the problem: 2,334 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 2017 Smart Fortwo complaints

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

Electrical System · reported Apr 8, 2026
The Power Electronics Control Unit (ECM), Part No. A453-900-72-11, and the DC-to-DC converter have both failed, rendering this all-electric vehicle completely inoperable. There is no backup propulsion system. The DC-to-DC converter powers safety-critical systems including lighting, turn signals, and hazard flashers — its failure could cause loss of safety-critical functions while driving. Total repair estimate is $20,560.43. The manufacturer Mercedes-Benz USA denied warranty coverage using a Canadian warranty document for the wrong vehicle model. MBUSA has shut down the Smart warranty portal…
Steering · reported May 15, 2025
What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? Driver Side front wheel / maybe steering rack / etc. makes loud grinding / rubbing sound when making turn only when the weather's hot and humid and when the car has been running for about 20 min How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? Noise / rubbing / grinding sound comes from the driver side front wheels or Has the problem been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center? Yes, Service center reproduced the sound and went two levels deep to try and…
Electrical System · reported Jul 28, 2023
The car won't charge over 20% due probably a faulty manufacturer part of N83 high voltage control box. This could cause very serious electrical/battery issues if the high voltage box is faulty.
Seat Belts · at 2,900 miles · reported Mar 21, 2019
Seat belts do not retract. There were couple of times while in transit on city road, I had to apply brake suddenly and seat belt fail to engage to hold the passenger back . All the time , both seat belts do not retract to their home position when not in use and car is stopped and parked, this caused dents to the car's body and frame around the door when we close the doors. I reported to the local mercedes dealer september 2018. In december, they could only replace the driver side seat belt. The passenger side's belt has been claimed to be backed order till now. I have called numerous times to…

Other Smart Fortwo years

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Compare all Smart Fortwo years · All Smart models

Frequently asked questions

Does the 2017 Smart Fortwo have any recalls?

Yes — NHTSA lists 1 recall for the 2017 Smart Fortwo: 17V-447 (steering). Not every vehicle is affected, so check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.

What is the most common problem with the 2017 Smart Fortwo?

Owners report electrical system problems most often (4 reports), followed by steering (2). The typical mileage when problems were reported is about 2,334 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.