Smart Fortwo EV Steering Column Adjustment Failure Alert

Had the same steering issue on my 2016 Smart ForFour EQ last winter. The electronic steering column adjustment completely locked up, displaying a similar error code. After inspection, the problem traced back to a faulty wiring harness connection at the steering column. The root cause was cable insulation wear causing intermittent connection issues with the steering column adjustment module. This created sporadic electronic steering failures and column adjustment problems. While not immediately dangerous, these steering issues required prompt attention to prevent potential steering failure. The repair involved replacing the entire wiring harness assembly and recalibrating the electronic steering system. Labor intensive job since accessing the column meant removing several interior trim pieces. Not a common failure point, but when it happens, its best addressed quickly to avoid more severe steering issues. Key advice: Have a proper diagnostic scan done first. The error codes will show if its truly an electrical fault versus mechanical steering problems. In my case, catching it early prevented damage to the more expensive electronic steering components. Since then, the steering system has worked flawlessly for another 50000 km with no electric adjustment problems or error codes returning.

Thanks for sharing your experience. Your steering issue sounds very similar to what happened with my Smart Fortwo last month. The electric steering adjustment completely stopped working with the same symptoms. Could you share how much the repair cost in your case? Just wondering if prices have changed since then. Also curious if youve had any other electric adjustment or steering issues pop up since getting it fixed? My mechanic mentioned something about keeping an eye on the steering sensors too, but Id love to hear about your longer-term experience.

Just got back from having my ForFour fixed, turned out much simpler than expected. The electric steering column adjustment issue was resolved by repairing a loose cable connection, costing only 95€. Way better than the full harness replacement I initially needed last winter. No steering issues whatsoever since the original repair. The electric steering system continues working perfectly, with smooth column adjustments and zero error codes. Those steering sensors the mechanic mentioned are worth monitoring, but in most cases, these adjustment problems stem from basic electrical connections rather than sensor failure. If youre seeing identical symptoms to what I described, its likely a similar connection problem rather than a major mechanical fault. These electric steering systems are generally reliable once properly repaired, just make sure all connections are properly secured during the fix to prevent future steering adjustment problems. The repair costs have actually dropped as mechanics have become more familiar with these common electric steering issues in Smart vehicles. Getting it checked early definitely helps avoid more expensive repairs down the line.

Thanks everyone for the helpful replies. Just got back from the mechanic and wanted to share how it went. The steering column adjustment issue turned out to be very similar to what was described, a wiring problem affecting the electric steering system. Total repair came to 180€, which included diagnosing the fault and fixing some corroded wiring connections near the steering column. The mechanic found the insulation had worn through in a couple spots, causing the electric adjustment system to fail intermittently. The car steering feels much more responsive now, and the electric column adjustment is working perfectly again. They also checked all the steering sensors while they were in there, everything tested fine. Really glad I caught this early before it could cause more serious steering problems. Whole repair took about 3 hours. Much better outcome than I feared, and definitely worth getting it sorted quickly. Will keep monitoring for any other electric steering issues, but for now, all seems well.