Smart Forfour Won't Start, Bad Clutch Switch Alert

Had the exact same symptoms on a 2007 Smart Fortwo CDI. The car starting issue combined with unresponsive cruise control and gear display points directly to the clutch switch failure, this is a common safety mechanism problem on these models. The clutch switch connects to the gear selector system and prevents starting without the clutch being fully pressed. When it fails, multiple systems get affected since the car computer cant verify the clutch position. The repair involves accessing the clutch pedal assembly to replace the switch and checking all cable connections. Found two damaged wires near the connector when mine was fixed. Car stalling also occurred just before complete failure. This is actually a straightforward fix for any competent mechanic, takes about 1-2 hours of labor. The part itself is not expensive. Most important is ensuring proper calibration after installation, as incorrect adjustment can lead to starting problems again. This is not a serious mechanical issue, but rather an electrical/safety component failure that happens with age. The symptoms you describe match perfectly with a faulty clutch switch, though having a professional verify the diagnostic is always recommended.

Thanks for sharing your experience with the clutch switch repair. My car had exactly the same electrical fault symptoms a few months ago. Really helpful to know the safety switch replacement fixed it for you. Mind sharing what you ended up paying for the full repair? Wondering if prices have changed much since then. Also curious if any other issues came up afterwards, sometimes these electrical problems can be related to other components in the safety mechanism system.

Thanks for asking about the repair costs. After having my clutch pedal switch fixed last week, I can confirm it solved all those frustrating electrical fault issues. The mechanic found a damaged cable connection that was causing the safety mechanism to fail intermittently. The total cost came to 95€, which included diagnosing the problem and replacing the faulty connection. No additional issues have surfaced since the repair, the cruise control works perfectly now, and car stalling is no longer a problem. The gear display is also functioning as it should. What made the diagnosis spot-on was how the symptoms matched the classic clutch switch failure pattern. The safety switch repair really resolved everything in one go, and the car runs like new. The price seems fair considering the diagnostic work needed to pinpoint the exact connection problem. Just make sure your mechanic thoroughly tests all related systems after the repair. These electrical faults can sometimes mask other issues, but in my case, fixing the clutch pedal switch connection was all it needed.

Thanks for the detailed cost breakdown. I took my car in yesterday and the mechanic confirmed the ignition problem was indeed the faulty switch. Total repair came to 110€, slightly more than yours but still reasonable. Found a small garage that specializes in electrical issues. The mechanic showed me the worn connection points and explained how the safety mechanism got damaged. Took about 2 hours total including testing all systems. Everything works perfectly now, gear selector display is clear, cruise control responds, and the car starts smoothly without any hesitation. No more car stalling either. After getting burned by overpriced repairs before, this was actually a pleasant experience. The mechanic even cleaned up some corrosion around the switch housing at no extra charge. Simple fix in the end, just needed someone who knew what they were looking for. Glad I asked here first, saved me from another expensive wild goose chase at the dealer.