Used car guide
2012 Smart Fortwo: petrol or diesel?
Petrol, diesel and hybrid versions go wrong in different ways, so each has its own figures from the MOTs these cars had during 2023–2025. Pick the one you’re looking at: the fuel is on the logbook and in the car’s MOT history.
Petrol
72% pass first time (all 2012 cars: 64%)
Stands out: rigid brake pipes 2.5×, braking performance 1.9×
1,953 MOTsSee the petrol guide ›
Diesel
63% pass first time (all 2012 cars: 64%)
Stands out: rigid brake pipes 4×
293 MOTsSee the diesel guide ›
Hybrid versions had too few MOTs for figures of their own, or weren’t sold.
Known faults on every 2012 Smart Fortwo
Reported by owners, mechanics and buying guides for this model and age. Check which engine the car has, as some apply to one engine only.
- Cabriolet
Roof leaks (cabriolet)
Cabriolets have had leaks and water damage from the roof.
At the viewing: On a cabriolet, check the roof seals and feel the carpets and seats for damp.
Looking at a Smart Fortwo?
Check the actual car: its own MOT history, mileage and what to ask the seller. Free, no sign-up.
Other years
Every year of the Smart Fortwo compared
| Year | MOT tests | Most flagged |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | – | Too new for MOT data |
| 2023 | – | Too new for MOT data |
| 2022 | – | Too few tests |
| 2021 | – | Too few tests |
| 2020 | – | Too few tests |
| 2019 | 5,575 | Tyres 24% |
| 2018 | 9,966 | Tyres 27% |
| 2017 | 14,234 | Tyres 27% |
| 2016 | 16,973 | Tyres 26% |
| 2015 | 6,533 | Tyres 26% |
| 2014 | 10,991 | Tyres 26% |
| 2013 | 2,713 | Tyres 29% |
| 2011 | 9,133 | Tyres 28% |
| 2010 | 13,296 | Brakes 30% |
| 2009 | 14,337 | Brakes 35% |
| 2008 | 11,719 | Brakes 34% |
| 2007 | 5,628 | Brakes 34% |
| 2006 | 2,481 | Suspension 39% |
| 2005 | 1,991 | Lights and electrics 40% |
| 2004 | 1,759 | Brakes 39% |
| 2003 | 456 | Brakes 38% |
| 2002 | 228 | Brakes 37% |