Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2016 Smart Fortwo
The 2016 Smart FORTWO has a limited number of complaints and one recall concerning the parking brake. Main concerns from owners include the fuel system and engine. Though issues aren't widespread, buyers should investigate these areas closely during inspection.
NHTSA data on file today
The 2016 Smart Fortwo has 1 NHTSA recall campaign and 20 owner complaints on file as of . Recall data is refreshed daily from NHTSA.
Recall campaigns on file
- NHTSA #17V448000 Parking Brake Cable may Loosen NHTSA notice
Most-cited components in owner complaints
- Engine 7 complaints
- Fuel/Propulsion System 7 complaints
- Electrical System 5 complaints
- Service Brakes 4 complaints
- Unknown or Other 3 complaints
- Steering 2 complaints
Of the 20 complaints on file, 5 report a crash and 2 a fire; across all 20 complaints, owners report 7 injuries (owner-reported, not verified by NHTSA).
Known issues to inspect
Parking brake may loosen
How to check: Test parking brake for secure hold on a slope.
Engine performance problems
How to check: Listen for unusual noises or misfires.
Electrical system malfunctions
How to check: Test all lights and electrical features.
Brake efficiency concerns
How to check: Evaluate brake response during test drive.
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Cold start
What to check: Listen for engine knocking or misfires.
Red flag: Persistent engine noise
- 02
First minute idling
What to check: Check for warning lights on dashboard.
Red flag: Persistent warnings stay on
- 03
Low-speed maneuvering
What to check: Test steering responsiveness and noise.
Red flag: Steering feels loose or noisy
- 04
Highway acceleration
What to check: Assess engine power and smoothness.
Red flag: Lack of power or hesitation
- 05
Hard braking
What to check: Brake for any unusual noise or pull.
Red flag: Car pulls or makes noise
- 06
Parking
What to check: Test parking brake effectiveness.
Red flag: Brake does not hold car
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- Has the parking brake recall been addressed?
- Any history of engine repairs?
- Issues with electrical components recently?
- Regular servicing and maintenance history?
- Has the vehicle been in any accidents?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Recall repair records
- Full service history
- Title and registration
- Accident history report
- Warranty documentation
Generated by gpt-4o on from the NHTSA recall campaigns and owner-complaint counts on file for the 2016 Smart Fortwo at the time. AI output can be wrong; confirm anything you find with a mechanic.
Next step
Looking at a specific 2016 Smart Fortwo? Check the actual car
This checklist covers the model. From your free try.vin dashboard you can go further — paste the seller's listing for a deal score, or drop their photos for an AI condition report.