I'm a small girl who is 4'11 who used to drive SUVs and Crossovers. I I recently moved closer to the city and struggled with road side parking. I have avoided this car at all costs before I found them too weird. I always wanted to get an Aygo (for easier parking as it's really small) but when I actually drove this, it wasn't that bad. For a city car, more so an errand car, this does the job. I got a 2012 one with only 29k mileage and it runs so smoothly. As long as it is maintained properly, the car is reliable! My colleagues told me this car is not reliable... not according to the records though! Never failed an MOT since the first owner, never had any major probem and always been serviced by the manufacturer. It's quite snappy as well when it comes to the gear change. This small thing packs a punch. Might not look like it but it's a tiny roadster. There's a lot of negativity surrounding this car. A lot of people say don't buy this car but I beg to differ. It's not that bad as long as you know how to take care of it properly.
After owning well over thirty cars, mainly Mercedes, I finally bought my first Smart, a 57 plate 71bhp Passion. For what it is, I cannot fault it and I’m very happy with it so far. I owned a few Audi A2s (amazing cars) and an original (very Spartan) Clio, otherwise all my cars were larger, typically C/E-Class estate size and I was afraid that having a Fourtwo would be a miserable experience, but it’s not at all. I’d rather have this size than a normal small car. Somehow, I don’t feel insecure and vulnerable in this, despite being mocked by my neighbour, who drives a troublesome French thing, bought on finance. He was very concerned about the sexual identity of my Smart car, but I don’t take it personally, his old girlfriend is like a bloke. This is a very informative video,thanks for it!
This video was sooo good, thanks. I have the exact same car in the same colour finish. Since purchasing my Smart, I’ve not had the opportunity to give it a good look over as we are in a rental at the moment with no safe space out front but we move to our new house in two weeks time and I’m going to be all over it. I purchased the Smart from a good dealer and even though I purchased it with 110,000 miles in the clock, it runs so smoothly. I’ve taken out an extended warranty on the Smart because of its age and I’m happy with it. When I buy a car, I always look for three things, fuel economy, safety and fun to drive. Some people who look at this car, don’t know how fun they are. And my 81 bhp turbo is so quick. Thanks once again for detailed video
This is an excellent video and highlights exactly all the faults I have discovered since buying one of these a week ago, albeit rather blindly. Fortunately, Despite high mileage (92k) and never having had a service in the last 5 years (oil filter rusty & sump plug dangerously difficult to shift) it still is an impressive piece of engineering. I will grow to love it I'm sure. I have avoided one of these, since it is no Ford Cortina to maintain (yes, I'm 70!) But thanks to high quality videos like this and the fact all modern cars are all stupidly over technical anyway now, it makes these cars a logical 'go to' choice today.
I have the 84 too, and also noticed other road users seem to hate being behind no matter what speed you’re doing. Love the car though, and as you said.. the community is by far one of the best!
Same here. Even thought it is really quick, people just want to get you out of the way. It’s hard not to speed up just so you can show them what it can do.
I am 60 and have always done all my car servicing myself…. I have owned a few Volkswagen, a Porsche, 2 Mercedes, an Audi…. an never went once to a garage…. Your channel showed me that the 451 while being different, it is quite simple and cheap to service or repair. In fact you are the guy that has convinced me to buy one🤣 Since mid October I am the proud owned of a piano black 2013 Passion 71hp…. I have a lot of fun with it… So thank you to have helped me to make the decision to become a Smart owner… Your video are always very informative…. clear and exhaustive content… The last one on the SAM unit is one of your best one… crystal clear👍 Nicolas
Hi Nicolas, thank you for your feedback - this is great to read and I’m really pleased that the videos have helped you on your journey with these amazing little cars!
I own my 451 Facelift Pulse for a year and 2 months and I have to say I'm in love with it. I also watched your video thoroughly and happy to report, even though it had an alarming FIVE previous owners, it has a nice service book and had to this day no issues come up. I purchased it with about 52k km and drove it ~8000 km. My partner (not a car person at all) described one of his previous cars as a "friend" and I find it fitting to the 451. It's comfortable, I can park or turn everywhere and it can be truly fast. I can also chill inside, turn sideways and rest my legs for half an hour on my lunchbreak. The panorama roof is very handy because I don't need to break my neck trying to see if the light turned green, I can just rest my head and look up. The crash test is also very convincing. All in all I'm very happy with it.
This is so much good information about these cars. I’ve owned my 2008 Passion for nine years now and still enjoy driving it. It has about 46, 600 miles on it and is still in very good condition. I have a specialist mechanic who looks after it annually. Even though it only gets driven about 1,000 to 1,500 miles a year, it is still serviced yearly. It’s been a very reliable city driver. I’ve enjoyed watching your videos in the past especially your Smart videos.
Just too late. I bought one today. This car exactly / color and everything. It has some issues, but drives very nice. Glad to see your videos about this car. Because I had an older one from 2002, but this is very very different. Thanks. Strangely enough, I did not see the engine cover under that carpet. Hmmm, I have to look again, must be there.
Great video, very detailed and informative, just bought the wife a 2012 Passion 39000miles, absolutely great car can not believe some of the design feachers for the year, eg the heater controls can be operated with out moving your hand but can operate rear screen, air con, fan, temp. I think the gearbox is great, people say they are slow but if they knew how they worked ( a normal gearbox a normal clutch operated by an actuator) they would understand that it's about half a second slower than a manual gearbox gear change. I'm a lorry driver and all truck gears are on this method, no complicated Auto box. I have a new all Electric Kia but I love jumping in the smart car to put a smile on my face. Great video keep it up.
Yes, the do make people smile! During the Lock-down, the battery died on my Smart, but when it had a fresh battery, after restarting a few times, waiting for it to re-calibrate, it was a much more responsive drive.
Such a good video, thanks. I must confess to having the Brabus 451 model and cannot stop driving it despite the car sharing garage space with a Porsche 993 RS tribute and a powerful C-class Merc. This is the car I drive the most. A lot of people are shocked at how quick this little Badger is 😁😁😁. I love the unassuming and practical package of it and wonder why I never got one all this time😳🤷🏾♂️. Love the little car very much ♥️
I hired a Smart on holiday a few years ago, and loved it. Now thinking about buying one as a second car, and glad I came across this video - It's fantastic. This is about the best and most informative buyer's guide for any car I've ever seen, and certainly a must watch (several times) video for anybody wishing to buy one of these lovely little cars. Many thanks for your channel.
I loved your video! I have a 2010 with 44,000 plus miles. I had to replace my clutch and few other things. I live in Texas US. I love little Smart Car. You don't see many around in the states. I so excited to have found your channel. I know I will learn alot. Thank you
Thank you for your videos. I have a 1.0 Passion and you have de-mystified it for me. I bought one with low mileage 3 years ago and I am always pleasantly surprised by its reliability now that I am used to its quirks
Well, we bought our 451 in 10.2017 with 50000 Km since then I changed the front break pads and discs , the exhaust, and every year an oil change plus filters .Thats it ,and it has now run , 151000 Km without any issues 🙏
Just a point about the temperature gauge. It was removed very early on in the 451 range, not at the 2010 facelift, only 2007 and a very few early 2008 had it. It was removed because the American sellers decided it was too complicated and affected sales. If you can find the early LCD then it is an easy drop in and nothing needs to be enabled for it to work. This includes the CDI version. Lots of hits on Google tell you that the temperature gauge does not work in the CDI but they are wrong. I have had three CDIs and have fitted the temp gauge LCD to all of them, 2009 45, 2009 54 and the post facelift 2012 54.
Thanks for this informative video. I bought a 451 Passion new in 2008 and this video presents me with some things to look at in my car, as it is getting up in years now. I'm in the States, so there are some differences from the UK models (envious of your turbo model, which we never got!), but a lot of the cited items are applicable. Next plan is to repaint my panels, which suffer from peeling of the plastic coating. Also going to try to clear up the polycarbonate roof using techniques used for headlight restoration.
Thank you very much for this video, I've been looking for one of these for a while (they're rare in 'merica). One of these has finally turned up in an auction, and this video has given me a great brief on what to look for.
this has been extremely helpful thank you for making this i sought mine out specifically because it dos not drive like a normal car because i have extreme driving anxiety because of a bad accident when they tried to teach me back when i was younger then i got my passion ( the wife saw the irony in that ) yesterday then i started seeing all the dont buy this car stuff that started popping up on my feeds, but yours was very well spoken and clear so again i thank you
This was nicely done, very informative. I love my '09 Smartie. You're so right, people seem to always want to pass me up. As if I'm driving at a snails pace. 😅 Happy driving!
Car shifts wonderful if from a stop you press the gas pedal only half an inch down and hold it there. The transmission will shift very smoothly thru all five gears and accelerate quickly and smoothly. Press the gas pedal further down like you would in a normal automatic transmission car and the smart car will shift horribly. Try it and you will be amazed!
During the Lock-down, the battery died on my Smart, but when it had a fresh battery, after restating a few times, waiting for it to re-calibrate, it was a much more responsive drive.
Mine is 2010 model year, MHD and has 155000km, only issue I have is during winter Esp light is on all the time, everything else spot on.. nice video btw.. cheers from Croatia👍
I had a 450 for ten years and changed it for 451 last year. The engine is tuned up to 116hp, that's why the clutch lives 20k miles, after you cannot plug rear speed.
Years ago I had one of the first smart cars in Scotland. It was a T reg passion. Red and silver. I loved it. It was great fun. I put wider wheels on it. A stainless custom exhaust. It was my daily driver for work. At that time there were no repair centres. The gearbox self destructed at 57k miles. Had it fixed and did a finance hand back. Just in time. I remember seeing the first cross blade in Scotland. Looked great but not for here. I would like to own another smart at some point.
I have a 2009 passion 71Hp Smart, I absolutely love it, i do food delivery so its perfect for the city here in Vienna, very easy to park anywhere and its very quick, my only problem is that it uses 6.5L/100km in City with Start/Stop, idk what to do about that but its probably because its old
7:48 Beware, it can be opened without the remote, but it cannot be locked! It was an unwelcome surprise to say the least. I had to run around like a headless chicken, looking for a battery to the spare key as I arrived at work and the car wouldn't close. (My partner accidentally took my keys and I took the spare which never been used, dead battery)
We had a few 450’s each one ended up with engine faults about 50k which always seemed to require a rebuild or refurbished one….gave up with them in the end, fun car but very disappointing with the amount of constant maintenance. So saying its nice to see your review of the 451…..if we were to get one as a pet what mileage as a maximum would you feel would be the maximum without a rebuild ?
I’ve had no issues with the petrol engines on the 451 but I’d personally aim for one under 80k. These are not without their issues but fortunately the engine itself isn’t usually one of them, just everything else!
I got my 2010 Edition Highstyle MHD in August and I absolutely love it! It just had a full service at S2smarts and it needs a new rear spring, front wishbone and rear brake pipe. I get a bit of water under the drivers carpet after washing it with high pressure water so that is probably the windscreen?🤔 Where do people get that re sealed?
Always wanted to purchase a Smart but the dealer refused to sell me a base model (trying to upsell me)... so I walked. Tried at least twice without success. The dealers were one of the reasons they didn't sell a lot of cars. The price didn't help. A CVT transmission would have worked nicely in this car but they never did it. :-)
Great video Jimmy. Thank you for sharing. Can you let us know more about power steering please. Which models have it, which don't and how can you tell if a Smart ForTwo you are thinking of buying has power steering before you buy it? I currently have a 2002 Passion Cabrio (450) and love driving it but looking to upgrade. Watching from Jersey, UK.
Thank you, although I’m not Jimmy! Power steering was an optional extra and is pretty rare, as in standard form it’s a pretty light setup anyway. When they have it though, as with many cars now, the assistance is provided by an electric motor at the rack, as opposed to conventional power steering with hydraulic pump and fluid etc. I’m thinking the best way to ascertain if a car has it would be when safely parked, to compare the weight and feel at the steering with engine on and ignition switched off. It would be more complex to see if you can find the ECU or examine the steering rack, where you’d see the motor, near the pinion.
Our 2009 Smart Car has none of the issues you talked about. Our car has leather heated seats, power windows, and has no problems in traffic. Acceleration around town is very good and surprises most other drivers. I don't recommend Smart Cars for long trips, they're great for urban driving.
Great video! Our 2014 451 currently failed a safety check in US, according to our mechanic its the bad motor mounts causing movement of the engine. And the quote is nearly $2000 to replace 4 peaces of mounts. Not sure yet if that's fair but sound like a bit unreasonable?
That does sound expensive. The front engine mount is the usually the problematic one which can cause some pretty wild engine movement. The part is not very expensive - from memory less than £50 and simple to fit, just two bolts. I reinforced mine with Powerflex inserts which tightens up the whole arrangement with just a slight increase in vibration/harshness at idle.
Hello I have a question I’m hoping you might be able to help me with. I live in California and I have a 2015 smart fortwo and it’s doing the violent death shake when the fans come on, and the AC stopped working. I live in California and I am wondering if there is a fan assembly that is built to not have this problem occur again and where I might be able to order it. Thanks.
I’d be surprised if there is a stronger version of the cooling fan motor available. I’m thinking in CA your options might be limited to the MB/Smart dealership or eBay. I know from when I’m there that I just don’t see Smarts around in anywhere near the same numbers as Europe. Business opportunity?
@@autoknight747 Thanks for your input. We have sites like PartsGeek and RockAuto here in the states and they sell an “Auxiliary Fan Assembly” for 2008-2015 Smart Fortwo 451 for roughly $125. The company that makes the fan is called SKP and from what I’ve read in various forums and reviews is that they make much better quality products than some other companies and that they meet or exceed OEM specifications for all of their products. I think if the price isn’t bad I will go ahead and try that. I’m not quite sure how much the my local smart center is going to want.
it depends on where you buy rear brake slave cylinders as to how cheap they are .... MB wanted around £100 for a pair & they only sell them in pairs. Rear shoes are £150 from MB! 😱 Obviously they are available after market for a lot less. So far, my £130 pattern exhaust for my 84bhp Grandsyle Smart is holding up 🤞
Very good video, thank you, I’d love to know your opinion on wether power steering is desirable/necessary or not, I’m looking for a Fortwo for my wife, wish you could do a comparison with the 453 (auto).👍
Power steering on the 451 is rare. I have never encountered one with it. I’m reliably informed that it only assists at slower speeds. I have always found these cars fine without it, as the set up is naturally quite light but I realise that can be subjective. Watch this space re. the 453. I have something potentially lined up for such content but just haven’t managed it yet for time reasons.
@@autoknight747 thanks, I’ll subscribe and look forward to any 453 content, I’m interested in the Z3 too, I so nearly bought several when it first launched, I bought a Boxster, TT and SLK in succession instead, I’m still looking out for an immaculate Z3 👍
@@f1kwa399 Thank you - it’s appreciated. Some great cars you’ve had there. I liked the Z3 when they were new but was at that time they were out of reach due to my youth. Now that has passed for both me and the cars, it’s great to be able to finally get one before they become unaffordable again.
I'm on My second smart car passion and have the same transmission issues. New actuator and still constantly goes into limp mode and having to pull over and let set for 5 minutes and restart. Does is multiple times daily. Multiple shops have been unable to solve the problem and gave up
Sorry to hear this. It can be a devil to diagnose and as an owner or repairing technician, you really have to be invested in the vehicle to resolve this.
Quick question, i have a 451 2008 Pulse and it doesnt have the button on the gear knob. That would make semi automatic? Or is there a way to make it run full automatic
@@aqkhan3638 It is possible to convert from softip to softouch by fitting the gear selector from a model with the button and having it reprogrammed by Smart/Mercedes. I did this on a Pure model. Can’t remember the price of the part (got it from eBay) and the dealer charged an hours labour for programming (cost will vary depending on region).
Difficult to advise here but there are some cities I would never buy a car from. I like to buy privately from decent people who have taken care of their car and not tried to run it on loose change. I’ve bought a lot of good cars from good people over the years. If the seller feels a bit ‘off’, I walk away. These are too old now to buy from main dealers which give the best warranties and reassurances, albeit at a price. Quality of independent garages can vary wildly and the ‘insurance based’ used car warranties can have many exclusions, sometimes rendering them pretty useless.
Diesel Smart for two also came in 45 bhp (which you didnt mention) and 54 bhp the 54bhp more troublesome as new DPF fitted. Also the diesel will do 65mpg constantly (although smart claim 85mpg)whilst the petrol like yours especially the 84bhp struggles to get 30/35 mpg not 60mpg as claimed believe me i have owned both bought brand new.
Hi, Im looking at buying a 2009 smart mhd. I test drove one the other day and noticed the steering wheel was very difficult to turn while still. I’ve been driving a vw golf so power steering makes the wheel feel really smooth so this shocked me in the smart. Should it be like this? It really took some effort to turn the wheel while stopped. Is this normal for smarts or could there be something wrong with this car?
Very few of these cars were ever fitted with power steering, so compared to a Golf it will seem heavy, especially when not on the move. Just to be sure, best to drive another for comparison or get a vehicle inspection before purchase. I’ve known steering column universal joints to go stiff on very early cars but not lately.
All in the SAM and many fuses for them. Locations: 6 Parking light right and number plate bulbs 7 Parking light left 22 Left dipped beam 23 Right dipped beam 25 Right main 26 Left main
Is it normal for a Smart 451 to change up into third gear at 22 mph which results in vibration, would not be an issue but living /driving in Central London is a nuisance having to change down manually, is this normal? is the vibration doing any harm ie engine mounts/clutch? I can't just put my foot down and run it up to 25 mph which is when the vibration stops because of all the 20 mph speed cameras! Auto Knight your comments would be much appreciated.
The point at which it shifts up gears will be affected by throttle position and load. The front engine mount is a weak point and if that mount is compromised, excessive engine movement is certainly not good for the exhaust system which has sprung loaded joints with a fibre washer. I feature this in one of my videos where I replace a lambda problem and remove the exhaust. I speak for petrol models. Have had nothing to do with diesel variants.
I have a smart 451, and I found when I start the car or if I am at idle there is a smell of exhaust in the car, cant find where it is coming from any idea, but when driving there is no exhaust smell, there is no leaks from the joints of exhaust .
Check the seal and fit of the engine cover, under the rear carpet. Some times, it isn't latched at the front properly. Also remember that the exhaust is a whole seat closer to your nose!
@@nickreyes4570 I detect a business opportunity here. I have strong links with California and have a trip 2-3 times a year. Does no one cater for these cars?
Don't make the mistake of thinking they're cheap to insure for new drivers - 2009, 0.8 Cdi, 45bhp, new (son) driver, £1720 for his first year (£1450 with no black box). Fantastic car - but not everything is cheap about it!!
All cars are expensive for new drivers - I was 18 when I passed my test in March 2023, and I got my 2010 MHD 71bhp in August. I am paying about £1300 for Admiral Gold with no black box. It is about the cheapest I’ve seen but a Toyota Argo or VW Up! would’ve been cheaper
I just grabbed a 2008 passion, for $3k. I want to lock the doors without setting the alarm. Can anyone help? I should have did more research on these cars, just having the car for two weeks, now I know what to look for before buying one. I actually went to go look at another one…. Test driving it and saw all the faults, they wanted $5k… with what I knew I told them I could only give them $4,200. It needed brake pads, rotors, brakes shoes and drums, bottom engine mount was broken, They wanted $4,500…… I said, you have my number if you want to sell it at $4.2k
Oh, Man. I live in Drumhelled Alberta Canada. I have always whated a smart car. The story happening. Mom traded her old? musthand. Frank always wanted a mustang traded his smart car for the mustan. Now Chuck see's the smart Car. Deals are hapening. He has fallen in love whit HIS SMARTY. I AM SORRY, WHAT'S NOT TO LOVE.
what can i say: people hate the car, but kids love it.. i believe they think they would be allowed to drive it for some reason... dont buy the car people do not know what it is and i hope mine dies soon so i can buy something bigger so people leave me alone.
This is very very very very very very very very very helpful. Because I live in the United States Westchester New York and I have a smart car I took a loan out I'm paying it off I have some hiccups such as the gearbox I just discovered I had leak and I'm bringing it to my mechanic with the part that I have ordered as well transmission fluid the part needed was pretty the transmission fluid was a whopping $35 per quart.. any way this video is really helpful.. thank you I'm trying to keep my little car it's my baby I have a 2012 smart car
Am I right in feeling you missed out on the base petrol engine with 61 bhp ? 🥸 Referring to the roof: “Can go opaque” is euphemistic. Today nearly every car is affected of this. I slightly disagree on the brake discs; mine last forever. The pads as well, as the engine brake and the airflow do the most in braking. Finally, you may obtain a painted fuel filler cap… (kinda running gag in the smart community) 😂 Cheers Mate!
Well spotted, you are right, I failed to mention the mythical beast that is the 61 bhp. I’ve never encountered one to be honest. Even my 2008 non MHD Pure a couple of years back was a 71. I wonder how many people bought them and more to the point why 🤣
I'm a small girl who is 4'11 who used to drive SUVs and Crossovers. I I recently moved closer to the city and struggled with road side parking. I have avoided this car at all costs before I found them too weird. I always wanted to get an Aygo (for easier parking as it's really small) but when I actually drove this, it wasn't that bad. For a city car, more so an errand car, this does the job. I got a 2012 one with only 29k mileage and it runs so smoothly. As long as it is maintained properly, the car is reliable! My colleagues told me this car is not reliable... not according to the records though! Never failed an MOT since the first owner, never had any major probem and always been serviced by the manufacturer. It's quite snappy as well when it comes to the gear change. This small thing packs a punch. Might not look like it but it's a tiny roadster. There's a lot of negativity surrounding this car. A lot of people say don't buy this car but I beg to differ. It's not that bad as long as you know how to take care of it properly.
After owning well over thirty cars, mainly Mercedes, I finally bought my first Smart, a 57 plate 71bhp Passion. For what it is, I cannot fault it and I’m very happy with it so far. I owned a few Audi A2s (amazing cars) and an original (very Spartan) Clio, otherwise all my cars were larger, typically C/E-Class estate size and I was afraid that having a Fourtwo would be a miserable experience, but it’s not at all. I’d rather have this size than a normal small car. Somehow, I don’t feel insecure and vulnerable in this, despite being mocked by my neighbour, who drives a troublesome French thing, bought on finance. He was very concerned about the sexual identity of my Smart car, but I don’t take it personally, his old girlfriend is like a bloke.
This is a very informative video,thanks for it!
This video was sooo good, thanks. I have the exact same car in the same colour finish. Since purchasing my Smart, I’ve not had the opportunity to give it a good look over as we are in a rental at the moment with no safe space out front but we move to our new house in two weeks time and I’m going to be all over it. I purchased the Smart from a good dealer and even though I purchased it with 110,000 miles in the clock, it runs so smoothly. I’ve taken out an extended warranty on the Smart because of its age and I’m happy with it. When I buy a car, I always look for three things, fuel economy, safety and fun to drive. Some people who look at this car, don’t know how fun they are. And my 81 bhp turbo is so quick. Thanks once again for detailed video
This is an excellent video and highlights exactly all the faults I have discovered since buying one of these a week ago, albeit rather blindly. Fortunately, Despite high mileage (92k) and never having had a service in the last 5 years (oil filter rusty & sump plug dangerously difficult to shift) it still is an impressive piece of engineering. I will grow to love it I'm sure. I have avoided one of these, since it is no Ford Cortina to maintain (yes, I'm 70!) But thanks to high quality videos like this and the fact all modern cars are all stupidly over technical anyway now, it makes these cars a logical 'go to' choice today.
I have the 84 too, and also noticed other road users seem to hate being behind no matter what speed you’re doing. Love the car though, and as you said.. the community is by far one of the best!
Same here. Even thought it is really quick, people just want to get you out of the way. It’s hard not to speed up just so you can show them what it can do.
@@andychipsvery careless drivers lately, same in my country, it’s like they don’t want you in front of them no matter what you drive
I am 60 and have always done all my car servicing myself…. I have owned a few Volkswagen, a Porsche, 2 Mercedes, an Audi…. an never went once to a garage….
Your channel showed me that the 451 while being different, it is quite simple and cheap to service or repair.
In fact you are the guy that has convinced me to buy one🤣
Since mid October I am the proud owned of a piano black 2013 Passion 71hp….
I have a lot of fun with it…
So thank you to have helped me to make the decision to become a Smart owner…
Your video are always very informative…. clear and exhaustive content…
The last one on the SAM unit is one of your best one… crystal clear👍
Nicolas
Hi Nicolas, thank you for your feedback - this is great to read and I’m really pleased that the videos have helped you on your journey with these amazing little cars!
I own my 451 Facelift Pulse for a year and 2 months and I have to say I'm in love with it. I also watched your video thoroughly and happy to report, even though it had an alarming FIVE previous owners, it has a nice service book and had to this day no issues come up. I purchased it with about 52k km and drove it ~8000 km.
My partner (not a car person at all) described one of his previous cars as a "friend" and I find it fitting to the 451. It's comfortable, I can park or turn everywhere and it can be truly fast.
I can also chill inside, turn sideways and rest my legs for half an hour on my lunchbreak. The panorama roof is very handy because I don't need to break my neck trying to see if the light turned green, I can just rest my head and look up.
The crash test is also very convincing. All in all I'm very happy with it.
This is so much good information about these cars. I’ve owned my 2008 Passion for nine years now and still enjoy driving it. It has about 46, 600 miles on it and is still in very good condition. I have a specialist mechanic who looks after it annually. Even though it only gets driven about 1,000 to 1,500 miles a year, it is still serviced yearly. It’s been a very reliable city driver. I’ve enjoyed watching your videos in the past especially your Smart videos.
Just too late. I bought one today. This car exactly / color and everything. It has some issues, but drives very nice. Glad to see your videos about this car.
Because I had an older one from 2002, but this is very very different. Thanks.
Strangely enough, I did not see the engine cover under that carpet. Hmmm, I have to look again, must be there.
Great video, very detailed and informative, just bought the wife a 2012 Passion 39000miles, absolutely great car can not believe some of the design feachers for the year, eg the heater controls can be operated with out moving your hand but can operate rear screen, air con, fan, temp.
I think the gearbox is great, people say they are slow but if they knew how they worked ( a normal gearbox a normal clutch operated by an actuator)
they would understand that it's about half a second slower than a manual gearbox gear change. I'm a lorry driver and all truck gears are on this method, no complicated Auto box. I have a new all Electric Kia but I love jumping in the smart car to put a smile on my face.
Great video keep it up.
Yes, the do make people smile!
During the Lock-down, the battery died on my Smart,
but when it had a fresh battery, after restarting a few times, waiting for it to re-calibrate,
it was a much more responsive drive.
Such a good video, thanks. I must confess to having the Brabus 451 model and cannot stop driving it despite the car sharing garage space with a Porsche 993 RS tribute and a powerful C-class Merc. This is the car I drive the most. A lot of people are shocked at how quick this little Badger is 😁😁😁. I love the unassuming and practical package of it and wonder why I never got one all this time😳🤷🏾♂️. Love the little car very much ♥️
I hired a Smart on holiday a few years ago, and loved it. Now thinking about buying one as a second car, and glad I came across this video - It's fantastic. This is about the best and most informative buyer's guide for any car I've ever seen, and certainly a must watch (several times) video for anybody wishing to buy one of these lovely little cars. Many thanks for your channel.
@@Brauschemann Thank you for your kind words! Good luck with your search for a great Smart.
I loved your video! I have a 2010 with 44,000 plus miles. I had to replace my clutch and few other things. I live in Texas US. I love little Smart Car. You don't see many around in the states. I so excited to have found your channel. I know I will learn alot. Thank you
They look cool, and looks like a very nice car to drive
This is the best video i have seen so far on smart cars! Well done sir
@@aqkhan3638 Thank you!
Thank you for your videos. I have a 1.0 Passion and you have de-mystified it for me. I bought one with low mileage 3 years ago and I am always pleasantly surprised by its reliability now that I am used to its quirks
Well, we bought our 451 in 10.2017 with 50000 Km since then I changed the front break pads and discs , the exhaust, and every year an oil change plus filters .Thats it ,and it has now run , 151000 Km without any issues 🙏
I've had 3 Smarts over the years. ......& after watching this video, it may be time for no. 4
🙂
Two minutes in , you are proper for the task. Good show mate... Top of the pops is your equal
I am about to purchase one and this video has been extremely helpful. Thank you.
Just a point about the temperature gauge. It was removed very early on in the 451 range, not at the 2010 facelift, only 2007 and a very few early 2008 had it. It was removed because the American sellers decided it was too complicated and affected sales. If you can find the early LCD then it is an easy drop in and nothing needs to be enabled for it to work. This includes the CDI version. Lots of hits on Google tell you that the temperature gauge does not work in the CDI but they are wrong. I have had three CDIs and have fitted the temp gauge LCD to all of them, 2009 45, 2009 54 and the post facelift 2012 54.
Thanks for this informative video. I bought a 451 Passion new in 2008 and this video presents me with some things to look at in my car, as it is getting up in years now. I'm in the States, so there are some differences from the UK models (envious of your turbo model, which we never got!), but a lot of the cited items are applicable. Next plan is to repaint my panels, which suffer from peeling of the plastic coating. Also going to try to clear up the polycarbonate roof using techniques used for headlight restoration.
Absolutely brilliant video, thank you so much
Thank you very much for this video, I've been looking for one of these for a while (they're rare in 'merica). One of these has finally turned up in an auction, and this video has given me a great brief on what to look for.
this has been extremely helpful thank you for making this i sought mine out specifically because it dos not drive like a normal car because i have extreme driving anxiety because of a bad accident when they tried to teach me back when i was younger then i got my passion ( the wife saw the irony in that ) yesterday then i started seeing all the dont buy this car stuff that started popping up on my feeds, but yours was very well spoken and clear so again i thank you
This was nicely done, very informative. I love my '09 Smartie. You're so right, people seem to always want to pass me up. As if I'm driving at a snails pace. 😅
Happy driving!
I own 2014 facelift. Dude u are excellent!
Thankyou, looking to get a diesel version purely for economy and love the dinky proportions, Great video 😊👍
subscribed 😁
Car shifts wonderful if from a stop you press the gas pedal only half an inch down and hold it there. The transmission will shift very smoothly thru all five gears and accelerate quickly and smoothly. Press the gas pedal further down like you would in a normal automatic transmission car and the smart car will shift horribly. Try it and you will be amazed!
Yes, drive smart, it'll behave nicely.
One of the best Smart Car videos, very informative, well done.
Thank you for your kind words 👍
Nice Video, straight to the point(s), not too much blabla, good source of information!
Regards from Germany
I absolutely LOVE this little car!!! :)-
During the Lock-down, the battery died on my Smart,
but when it had a fresh battery, after restating a few times, waiting for it to re-calibrate,
it was a much more responsive drive.
Mine is 2010 model year, MHD and has 155000km, only issue I have is during winter Esp light is on all the time, everything else spot on.. nice video btw.. cheers from Croatia👍
I had a 450 for ten years and changed it for 451 last year. The engine is tuned up to 116hp, that's why the clutch lives 20k miles, after you cannot plug rear speed.
Years ago I had one of the first smart cars in Scotland. It was a T reg passion. Red and silver.
I loved it. It was great fun. I put wider wheels on it. A stainless custom exhaust.
It was my daily driver for work.
At that time there were no repair centres. The gearbox self destructed at 57k miles. Had it fixed and did a finance hand back. Just in time.
I remember seeing the first cross blade in Scotland. Looked great but not for here.
I would like to own another smart at some point.
@@wulliethedent Loved those early cars. A bit fragile but they truly captured the essence of the original concept.
If I decide to buy another I will certainly contact your good self. Thanks
I have a 2009 passion 71Hp Smart, I absolutely love it, i do food delivery so its perfect for the city here in Vienna, very easy to park anywhere and its very quick, my only problem is that it uses 6.5L/100km in City with Start/Stop, idk what to do about that but its probably because its old
Top review i have a bit of a smart problem in that i have had to many but your review covers all the common fault many thanks.
Brilliant article Jimmy adams from Ireland 🇮🇪 👏 👍
Very great and useful video! Thanks a lot
7:48 Beware, it can be opened without the remote, but it cannot be locked!
It was an unwelcome surprise to say the least. I had to run around like a headless chicken, looking for a battery to the spare key as I arrived at work and the car wouldn't close. (My partner accidentally took my keys and I took the spare which never been used, dead battery)
Indeed, the key operates a cable to the lock that can only pull, not push. It’s a one way process, so emergency access only!
Yes, It CAN be locked without a remote! On my 2013 Passion, the buttons broke on the fob. I researched how to lock it without the remote. 😁
@@steveborkowski4330 can you maybe share this information with us?
We had a few 450’s each one ended up with engine faults about 50k which always seemed to require a rebuild or refurbished one….gave up with them in the end, fun car but very disappointing with the amount of constant maintenance. So saying its nice to see your review of the 451…..if we were to get one as a pet what mileage as a maximum would you feel would be the maximum without a rebuild ?
I’ve had no issues with the petrol engines on the 451 but I’d personally aim for one under 80k. These are not without their issues but fortunately the engine itself isn’t usually one of them, just everything else!
I got my 2010 Edition Highstyle MHD in August and I absolutely love it! It just had a full service at S2smarts and it needs a new rear spring, front wishbone and rear brake pipe. I get a bit of water under the drivers carpet after washing it with high pressure water so that is probably the windscreen?🤔 Where do people get that re sealed?
An issue with my 2008 that occurred in 2018: The pistons that hold up the tailgate glass can fail, preventing the glass from staying open.
Excellent video. Thank you.
Hi Among the many great videos you've put on here, did you do one for rear shock absorber change? Many thanks. Geoff H
@@geoffhighley7486 That’s one job I hadn’t needed to do on a Smart.
I would love to have one someday
What’s a good smart forum and smart garage in north london area - I need a new exhaust fitted and brackets
I own a 451 for years. I also have many repair videos if you need them.
Always wanted to purchase a Smart but the dealer refused to sell me a base model (trying to upsell me)... so I walked.
Tried at least twice without success.
The dealers were one of the reasons they didn't sell a lot of cars.
The price didn't help.
A CVT transmission would have worked nicely in this car but they never did it.
:-)
Great video Jimmy. Thank you for sharing. Can you let us know more about power steering please. Which models have it, which don't and how can you tell if a Smart ForTwo you are thinking of buying has power steering before you buy it? I currently have a 2002 Passion Cabrio (450) and love driving it but looking to upgrade. Watching from Jersey, UK.
Thank you, although I’m not Jimmy! Power steering was an optional extra and is pretty rare, as in standard form it’s a pretty light setup anyway. When they have it though, as with many cars now, the assistance is provided by an electric motor at the rack, as opposed to conventional power steering with hydraulic pump and fluid etc. I’m thinking the best way to ascertain if a car has it would be when safely parked, to compare the weight and feel at the steering with engine on and ignition switched off. It would be more complex to see if you can find the ECU or examine the steering rack, where you’d see the motor, near the pinion.
great video, thanks. is there anything you can do protect the sam unit? wrap it in plastic film or something?
@@rsvp9816 Just make sure the windscreen isn’t leaking and all will be fine!
Our 2009 Smart Car has none of the issues you talked about. Our car has leather heated seats, power windows, and has no problems in traffic. Acceleration around town is very good and surprises most other drivers. I don't recommend Smart Cars for long trips, they're great for urban driving.
Great video! Our 2014 451 currently failed a safety check in US, according to our mechanic its the bad motor mounts causing movement of the engine. And the quote is nearly $2000 to replace 4 peaces of mounts. Not sure yet if that's fair but sound like a bit unreasonable?
That does sound expensive. The front engine mount is the usually the problematic one which can cause some pretty wild engine movement. The part is not very expensive - from memory less than £50 and simple to fit, just two bolts. I reinforced mine with Powerflex inserts which tightens up the whole arrangement with just a slight increase in vibration/harshness at idle.
Hello I have a question I’m hoping you might be able to help me with. I live in California and I have a 2015 smart fortwo and it’s doing the violent death shake when the fans come on, and the AC stopped working. I live in California and I am wondering if there is a fan assembly that is built to not have this problem occur again and where I might be able to order it. Thanks.
I’d be surprised if there is a stronger version of the cooling fan motor available. I’m thinking in CA your options might be limited to the MB/Smart dealership or eBay. I know from when I’m there that I just don’t see Smarts around in anywhere near the same numbers as Europe. Business opportunity?
@@autoknight747 Thanks for your input. We have sites like PartsGeek and RockAuto here in the states and they sell an “Auxiliary Fan Assembly” for 2008-2015 Smart Fortwo 451 for roughly $125. The company that makes the fan is called SKP and from what I’ve read in various forums and reviews is that they make much better quality products than some other companies and that they meet or exceed OEM specifications for all of their products. I think if the price isn’t bad I will go ahead and try that. I’m not quite sure how much the my local smart center is going to want.
BTW .. I just noticed that the newer 453 does not have the rear capacity for a crate, as the 451 has.
it depends on where you buy rear brake slave cylinders as to how cheap they are .... MB wanted around £100 for a pair & they only sell them in pairs. Rear shoes are £150 from MB! 😱 Obviously they are available after market for a lot less. So far, my £130 pattern exhaust for my 84bhp Grandsyle Smart is holding up 🤞
Very good video, thank you, I’d love to know your opinion on wether power steering is desirable/necessary or not, I’m looking for a Fortwo for my wife, wish you could do a comparison with the 453 (auto).👍
Power steering on the 451 is rare. I have never encountered one with it. I’m reliably informed that it only assists at slower speeds. I have always found these cars fine without it, as the set up is naturally quite light but I realise that can be subjective. Watch this space re. the 453. I have something potentially lined up for such content but just haven’t managed it yet for time reasons.
@@autoknight747 thanks, I’ll subscribe and look forward to any 453 content, I’m interested in the Z3 too, I so nearly bought several when it first launched, I bought a Boxster, TT and SLK in succession instead, I’m still looking out for an immaculate Z3 👍
@@f1kwa399 Thank you - it’s appreciated. Some great cars you’ve had there. I liked the Z3 when they were new but was at that time they were out of reach due to my youth. Now that has passed for both me and the cars, it’s great to be able to finally get one before they become unaffordable again.
I'm on My second smart car passion and have the same transmission issues. New actuator and still constantly goes into limp mode and having to pull over and let set for 5 minutes and restart. Does is multiple times daily. Multiple shops have been unable to solve the problem and gave up
Sorry to hear this. It can be a devil to diagnose and as an owner or repairing technician, you really have to be invested in the vehicle to resolve this.
Quick question, i have a 451 2008 Pulse and it doesnt have the button on the gear knob. That would make semi automatic? Or is there a way to make it run full automatic
@@aqkhan3638 It is possible to convert from softip to softouch by fitting the gear selector from a model with the button and having it reprogrammed by Smart/Mercedes. I did this on a Pure model. Can’t remember the price of the part (got it from eBay) and the dealer charged an hours labour for programming (cost will vary depending on region).
@@autoknight747 thank u for the helpful info. What kind of fiscal budget am i looking at
@@aqkhan3638 I got a used selector from eBay for £60 and the software update was £216
Great video thank you. I am on the market to buy a smart car for my wife. Not sure the best place to buy from. any recommendations?
Difficult to advise here but there are some cities I would never buy a car from. I like to buy privately from decent people who have taken care of their car and not tried to run it on loose change. I’ve bought a lot of good cars from good people over the years. If the seller feels a bit ‘off’, I walk away. These are too old now to buy from main dealers which give the best warranties and reassurances, albeit at a price. Quality of independent garages can vary wildly and the ‘insurance based’ used car warranties can have many exclusions, sometimes rendering them pretty useless.
Thank you that has helped
Very good videos 🤝
Diesel Smart for two also came in 45 bhp (which you didnt mention) and 54 bhp the 54bhp more troublesome as new DPF fitted.
Also the diesel will do 65mpg constantly (although smart claim 85mpg)whilst the petrol like yours especially the 84bhp struggles to get 30/35 mpg not 60mpg as claimed
believe me i have owned both bought brand new.
Hi, Im looking at buying a 2009 smart mhd. I test drove one the other day and noticed the steering wheel was very difficult to turn while still. I’ve been driving a vw golf so power steering makes the wheel feel really smooth so this shocked me in the smart. Should it be like this? It really took some effort to turn the wheel while stopped. Is this normal for smarts or could there be something wrong with this car?
Very few of these cars were ever fitted with power steering, so compared to a Golf it will seem heavy, especially when not on the move. Just to be sure, best to drive another for comparison or get a vehicle inspection before purchase. I’ve known steering column universal joints to go stiff on very early cars but not lately.
Great detailed vid thanks ❤
The shock absorbers should've been better. I test-drove one and I could feel when I ran over a roach. (too bumpy)
Do you know where the headlight fuse is located????
All in the SAM and many fuses for them. Locations:
6 Parking light right and number plate bulbs
7 Parking light left
22 Left dipped beam
23 Right dipped beam
25 Right main
26 Left main
Is it normal for a Smart 451 to change up into third gear at 22 mph which results in vibration, would not be an issue but living /driving in Central London is a nuisance having to change down manually, is this normal? is the vibration doing any harm ie engine mounts/clutch? I can't just put my foot down and run it up to 25 mph which is when the vibration stops because of all the 20 mph speed cameras! Auto Knight your comments would be much appreciated.
The point at which it shifts up gears will be affected by throttle position and load. The front engine mount is a weak point and if that mount is compromised, excessive engine movement is certainly not good for the exhaust system which has sprung loaded joints with a fibre washer. I feature this in one of my videos where I replace a lambda problem and remove the exhaust. I speak for petrol models. Have had nothing to do with diesel variants.
I have a smart 451, and I found when I start the car or if I am at idle there is a smell of exhaust in the car, cant find where it is coming from any idea, but when driving there is no exhaust smell, there is no leaks from the joints of exhaust .
Check the seal and fit of the engine cover, under the rear carpet.
Some times, it isn't latched at the front properly.
Also remember that the exhaust is a whole seat closer to your nose!
@@stpfs9281 thanks for the info
SMART ❤
Where do you get parts if something breaks??
@@nickreyes4570 Mercedes/Smart Dealer, EuroCarParts or Autodoc are who I generally buy from.
@autoknight747 in the US it is almost impossible to get parts because smart car dealerships left and Mercedes Bends doesn't want to deal with it.
@@nickreyes4570 I detect a business opportunity here. I have strong links with California and have a trip 2-3 times a year. Does no one cater for these cars?
I live on the East coast and just about everyone who has one is trying to sell them. They usually range between 3 to 4000 dollars.
Very useful video
Thank You. 💯👍👍
Don't make the mistake of thinking they're cheap to insure for new drivers - 2009, 0.8 Cdi, 45bhp, new (son) driver, £1720 for his first year (£1450 with no black box). Fantastic car - but not everything is cheap about it!!
All cars are expensive for new drivers - I was 18 when I passed my test in March 2023, and I got my 2010 MHD 71bhp in August. I am paying about £1300 for Admiral Gold with no black box. It is about the cheapest I’ve seen but a Toyota Argo or VW Up! would’ve been cheaper
Is it because they encourage driving like a Go-Kart?
Try Co-OP insurance.
brilliant car but suspension keeps breaking good video sir Adverts ruined it
@3:20 gave me a good laugh. got me good haha
Is available india ?
I do not know what models are available there as I’m in Europe.
I just grabbed a 2008 passion, for $3k. I want to lock the doors without setting the alarm. Can anyone help? I should have did more research on these cars, just having the car for two weeks, now I know what to look for before buying one. I actually went to go look at another one…. Test driving it and saw all the faults, they wanted $5k… with what I knew I told them I could only give them $4,200. It needed brake pads, rotors, brakes shoes and drums, bottom engine mount was broken, They wanted $4,500…… I said, you have my number if you want to sell it at $4.2k
I have a smart car and if you pulling a way let your car go up to 3000 refs and then take your foot off the floor a bit and it will change gear lovely
Oh, Man. I live in Drumhelled Alberta Canada. I have always whated a smart car. The story happening. Mom traded her old? musthand. Frank always wanted a mustang traded his smart car for the mustan. Now Chuck see's the smart Car. Deals are hapening. He has fallen in love whit HIS SMARTY. I AM SORRY, WHAT'S NOT TO LOVE.
Under 100k km otherwise no
what can i say: people hate the car, but kids love it.. i believe they think they would be allowed to drive it for some reason... dont buy the car people do not know what it is and i hope mine dies soon so i can buy something bigger so people leave me alone.
Great video, thank you. that car is junk !!! Buy Japan!
Fart for two. WHAT YOU EAT!
This is very very very very very very very very very helpful. Because I live in the United States Westchester New York and I have a smart car I took a loan out I'm paying it off I have some hiccups such as the gearbox I just discovered I had leak and I'm bringing it to my mechanic with the part that I have ordered as well transmission fluid the part needed was pretty the transmission fluid was a whopping $35 per quart.. any way this video is really helpful.. thank you
I'm trying to keep my little car it's my baby I have a 2012 smart car
This not car ...is problem.
I’m inlove with my 451 cabriolet passion 2010 model, it reaches speeds up to 160 km/h 🥰
Am I right in feeling you missed out on the base petrol engine with 61 bhp ? 🥸
Referring to the roof: “Can go opaque” is euphemistic. Today nearly every car is affected of this. I slightly disagree on the brake discs; mine last forever. The pads as well, as the engine brake and the airflow do the most in braking. Finally, you may obtain a painted fuel filler cap… (kinda running gag in the smart community) 😂 Cheers Mate!
Well spotted, you are right, I failed to mention the mythical beast that is the 61 bhp. I’ve never encountered one to be honest. Even my 2008 non MHD Pure a couple of years back was a 71. I wonder how many people bought them and more to the point why 🤣