Smart Roadster Oil Pressure Crisis: Warning Signs & Fixes

Having some experience with engine issues, I encountered a very similar problem with my Smart Fortwo (2003). The symptoms were identical, low oil pressure warning light, concerning engine noises, and fluctuating pressure gauge readings despite correct oil levels. After monitoring the oil pressure readings and hearing worrying bearing noises, I took it to a workshop. They diagnosed a defective oil pump causing dangerously low oil pressure, which was starving the engine bearings of proper lubrication. The repair involved: Removing and replacing the faulty oil pump, Installing a new oil filter, Complete oil change with fresh engine oil, Testing oil pressure at different RPMs Total repair cost was 755€ including parts and labor. The work took about 6-7 hours to complete. This issue needs immediate attention to prevent severe engine damage. The engine bearings can fail quickly with insufficient oil pressure. To provide more specific guidance, could you share: Current mileage, When was your last oil change, Type of engine oil currently used, Whether the noise changes with engine RPM, Any other warning lights present

Last service was done 2 months ago with fresh oil and filter change. Current mileage 134575 KM. Thanks for sharing your experience. After checking my symptoms against yours, it sounds very similar. My engine noise does vary with RPM and gets louder under load. The oil pressure gauge readings keep dropping, especially at idle. I noticed the low oil pressure warning tends to flicker at first, then stays on longer. Worried about engine bearing damage from inadequate lubrication. The oil pressure sensor itself might be faulty, but the noises suggest a more serious issue. Will get it checked immediately rather than risk further engine damage. Your repair cost reference helps with budgeting. Hope its just a clogged oil filter or faulty oil pressure sensor rather than major engine work.

Thanks for those additional details. Based on what you describe, especially the worsening noise under load and fluctuating oil pressure readings, this matches exactly what I experienced before my oil pump failed. While a clogged oil filter or faulty oil pressure sensor could cause similar symptoms, the combination of progressive bearing noise and dropping pressure readings points strongly toward oil pump failure, just like in my case. The recent oil change actually helps rule out contamination issues, but you should still check for metal particles in the oil, this could indicate bearing wear has started. When my Smart had this issue, the mechanic found small metal fragments in the oil, confirming bearing wear had begun. A quick diagnostic tip: if the low oil pressure warning behaves the same way mine did, flickering first then staying on longer, its likely the real pressure is dropping rather than just a sensor issue. Given these matching symptoms, I strongly recommend having it checked immediately. The repair cost I mentioned (755€) could be much higher if bearing damage becomes extensive. The good news is catching it early usually prevents major engine damage. Would you mind sharing if theres any difference in the noise or warning light behavior when the engine is cold versus fully warmed up?

Thank you for sharing those repair costs and symptoms. The engine noise and warning light behavior definitely changes with temperature, its actually worse when cold and improves slightly once warmed up, but never fully goes away. Getting it to a workshop tomorrow first thing. The oil pressure drops are becoming more frequent and the engine sounds increasingly rough. Just checked the oil and while the level is good, noticed some metal flakes on the dipstick which has me very concerned about bearing wear. Your input has been really helpful in understanding the likely oil pump failure. The progression of symptoms matches perfectly, from intermittent warnings to constant pressure issues and increased engine noise. At least I caught it before complete engine failure. Would rather pay 755€ now for an oil pump replacement than risk total engine damage. Will request they check for any oil leakage and do a complete system inspection while replacing the pump. Based on your timeline, should be able to get the car back same day if they find similar issues. This has definitely taught me to take oil pressure warnings seriously and act quickly when engine noises develop. Will update once I get the diagnosis and repair completed.