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matteohoffmann1

Smart Forfour Battery Failure Causing Multiple Errors

I have been experiencing electrical issues with my 2019 Smart Forfour (126500 km, gasoline). I have multiple error messages appear on the display, and there seem to be general electrical problems. After checking online, I suspect a failing auxiliary battery might be causing these voltage drops. Has anyone dealt with similar symptoms on their Smart? Would like to hear about repair costs and whether this diagnosis makes sense before visiting another mechanic. The last repair shop experience was not great, so I want to be better prepared this time.

4 comment(s)

charlottehoffmann2

My 2018 Smart ForTwo electric showed nearly identical symptoms. The battery malfunction started with slow cranking, followed by unusual warning lights and electrical glitches in the dashboard display. After experiencing multiple voltage drops while driving, I found the root cause was indeed a failing auxiliary battery. The power management system was trying to compensate for the low voltage, which triggered various error messages. The battery failure was confirmed through proper diagnostics at the shop. The repair involved replacing both the auxiliary and main batteries, plus cleaning all ground connections. This was a significant but necessary repair to prevent potential damage to other electrical components. The voltage issue affected multiple systems including the central locking, windows, and engine management. Testing revealed the original battery had degraded significantly due to heat exposure and normal aging. Since the repair, all electrical systems have functioned normally with no recurring issues for over 40000 km. This is a common issue with Smart vehicles of this age. When auxiliary batteries begin failing, they often cause cascading electrical problems that can mimic more serious issues. Getting a proper diagnosis with battery load testing is essential before replacing parts.

matteohoffmann1 (Author)

I had the exact same car electronics issues with my Smart Forfour last year. The symptoms match perfectly, unusual error messages, and general electrical gremlins. Turned out the auxiliary battery was the culprit, causing multiple low voltage issues. Did you end up getting it fixed? Curious about the repair costs in your case and if any other problems surfaced since the battery replacement. In my experience, fixing the battery malfunction resolved all the electrical quirks, but would like to hear your long-term results.

charlottehoffmann2

After seeing the mechanic last month, replacing the failing auxiliary battery completely resolved all the electrical issues in my Smart ForTwo. The power management system now works flawlessly with no more error messages or voltage drops. The total repair cost came to 290€, which included diagnostics and battery replacement. The engine start is now quick and reliable, and all electrical systems function normally. No additional problems have emerged since fixing the auxiliary battery malfunction. The investment was worthwhile considering how the low voltage was affecting multiple vehicle systems. It seems this is indeed a common repair needed on aging Smart vehicles once the auxiliary battery begins to degrade. Getting proper diagnostics helped identify the exact issue quickly rather than replacing parts unnecessarily. The long-term results have been excellent with stable electrical performance across all systems. In these cases, addressing the battery issue promptly helps prevent potential damage to other electrical components. The repair has proven to be a permanent solution rather than just a temporary fix.

matteohoffmann1 (Author)

I finally got the car electronics issue resolved at my mechanic last week. The battery failure diagnosis was spot on, they found the auxiliary battery had degraded significantly, causing all those voltage drops and warning lights. The repair was straightforward. Paid 320€ total for diagnostics, the new battery, and labor. The mechanic also cleaned all the connecting terminals while they were at it. Way better experience than my previous repair shop visit. No more error messages popping up, and all electrical systems work perfectly. Really glad I researched the symptoms before going in, helped me avoid unnecessary repairs and made sure they focused on the actual problem. Should have done this months ago instead of putting up with those electrical gremlins. Lesson learned about not waiting too long when battery issues first appear.

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