2009 Smart ForTwo Coupe 1.0L Workshop Service & Repair Manual

Smart ForTwo Coupe 2009

• How do I get used to the unique shifting of my 2009 Smart ForTwo's automatic transmission?

  Ah, the Smart's automated manual transmission! It definitely has its own personality, often feeling a bit "jerky" especially between first and second gear. The trick many owners find helpful is to actually lift off the accelerator briefly as it shifts, much like you would if you were driving a manual car. This little pause can smooth out those gear changes quite nicely. You can also try using the manual shift mode with the gear lever or paddle shifters if your car has them, giving you more control over when it shifts.

• Is it really true that the engine has to be partially lowered for some repairs on my 2009 Smart ForTwo Coupe?

  Yes, unfortunately, for certain repairs on your 2009 Smart ForTwo Coupe, the rear-mounted engine does indeed need to be partially lowered. Things like replacing the thermostat or water pump can be quite a tight squeeze otherwise. It's not a full engine removal, but it requires carefully releasing some mounts to create enough space to access those components. This procedure helps mechanics reach parts that are otherwise very difficult to get to, making the job possible and often a bit safer.

• What should I do if my 2009 Smart ForTwo Coupe's cooling system seems to be leaking coolant?

  If you notice coolant leaking from your 2009 Smart ForTwo Coupe, it's really important to address it quickly to avoid overheating. First, check for visible puddles or stains under the car. A common culprit is the plastic radiator, which can sometimes crack. Also, look at the hoses for any obvious damage or loose connections. If you can't spot the leak, a mechanic can perform a pressure test to find the exact source. For severe leaks, replacing the radiator is usually the best fix, and don't forget to use the correct type of coolant!

• My 2009 Smart ForTwo Coupe's exhaust sounds louder than usual; could it be the flex pipe?

  It's very possible! A sudden increase in exhaust noise, perhaps sounding like a hiss or a louder rumble, is a common sign the exhaust flex pipe on your 2009 Smart ForTwo Coupe might be failing. Over time, these flex pipes can corrode or break due to vibrations and heat. This can create an exhaust leak, making the car much noisier than normal. Often, the repair involves cutting out the old section and welding in a new flex pipe. It's usually a job for a muffler shop or a savvy DIYer with welding skills.

• What causes common electrical glitches, like the horn not working, in my 2009 Smart ForTwo Coupe?

  Electrical glitches in your 2009 Smart ForTwo Coupe can be a bit tricky, but a common source is often the Signal Acquisition Module (SAM) unit. This module, located under the dashboard, controls many electrical functions and is unfortunately prone to water damage from windscreen leaks. For a non-working horn, first check the fuse (sometimes fuse #31). If that's okay, it could be the horn switch itself, the clock spring in the steering wheel, or even a fault within the SAM unit's internal horn relay. A good auto-electrician can help diagnose and fix it.