Is the Smart Fortwo Reliable?
2008–2019 defect & recall-risk analysis from citable NHTSA data.
The score ranks this model's recall intensity against other sedans — plus systemic-defect concentration and any open federal investigations. It measures defect and recall risk, not long-term mechanical durability, and is deliberately not skewed by how many were sold.
Reliability Score
Own a Smart Fortwo? Check your specific VIN for a full history report.
Smart Fortwo Reliability by Year
| Model Year | Recalls | Complaints | Injuries | Deaths | Reliability Score | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2019 | — | — | — | — | Not enough data | |
| 2018 | — | — | — | — | Not enough data | |
| 2017 | 0 | 7 | — | — | 98 | Excellent |
| 2016 | 1 | 19 | 1 | — | 78 | Good |
| 2015 | 1 | 10 | 1 | — | 89 | Excellent |
| 2014 | 1 | 10 | — | — | 92 | Excellent |
| 2013 | 0 | 9 | — | — | 97 | Excellent |
| 2012 | 0 | 8 | — | — | 98 | Excellent |
| 2011 | 0 | 16 | 2 | — | 83 | Good |
| 2010 | 0 | 6 | — | — | 98 | Excellent |
Reliability scores are proprietary to VinCheckEngine and incorporate multiple weighted safety signals.
How the Fortwo Compares to Similar Vehicles
The Fortwo scores 16 points above the average sedan — a strong result.
Known Smart Fortwo Reliability Issues
The following components appear most frequently in owner complaints filed with NHTSA:
Based on 85 owner complaints across recent model years.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Smart Fortwo reliable?+
The Smart Fortwo scores 88/100 on our reliability index — rated "Excellent." Across 10 recently analyzed model years, it accumulated 3 recall campaigns and 85 owner complaints in the NHTSA database.
What year Fortwo is most reliable?+
Among the years analyzed, the 2017 Fortwo achieved the highest reliability score of 98/100 with 0 recalls and 7 complaints.
How many miles does a Fortwo last?+
With consistent maintenance, most Smart Fortwo owners report 150,000 to 200,000+ miles of service life. Checking the VIN of any specific used Fortwo will reveal its actual mileage history and any title events.
More Smart Fortwo Research
Check a Specific Smart Fortwo VIN
Model-level reliability scores show general trends. A VIN-specific report reveals the exact history of any individual vehicle — accidents, odometer records, auction events, and open recalls.
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