Is the 2017 Smart ForFour a good car?
An honest AI verdict — reliability, common problems, and real cost to own.
C+7/10
Good choice for city dwellers who prioritize easy parking and fuel efficiency over power and space.
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Pros
- Excellent maneuverability
- Good fuel economy
- Compact size for city driving
Cons
- Limited cargo space
- Underpowered engine
- Unpredictable resale value
Ownership at a glance
Fuel economy
39 mpg
Maintenance cost
$1,500/yr
Expected lifespan
150,000 miles
Common problems to watch for
- transmission jerks
- electronics glitches
- limited powertrain durability
CarsJudge exclusive data
Active recalls
No open NHTSA recalls are on record for the 2017 Smart Forfour as of our latest check.
Recall data: NHTSA. Owner costs & MPG: anonymized aggregates from CarsJudge users who track this vehicle. Updated 2026-07-05.
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This AI-generated assessment is general guidance only, not a substitute for a professional inspection. Always inspect a used vehicle before purchase.