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Smart Roadster Coupe 80 Auto(rhd) Problems & Known Issues

The most common Smart Roadster Coupe 80 Auto(rhd) problems ranked by severity — what to watch for, what it costs to fix, and what happens if you ignore it.

Generations

C452 — First Generation
2003–2005
0.7 Turbo

Top issues to watch for

The most serious Smart Roadster Coupe 80 Auto(rhd) problems ranked by severity. We track 5 known issues — here are the ones you need to know about first.

Dangerous
Suspension component damage (C452)
C4522003–200580k–120k miles
Suspension components on the Roadster suffer excessive damage or corrosion at 19.5 times the national fleet average, typically manifesting as control arm or subframe deterioration. This model's unique chassis construction and limited corrosion protection make it vulnerable to structural suspension damage that can compromise safety. The issue becomes critical around 80,000 miles where load-bearing components may fail.
What happens if ignoredSeverely damaged suspension components can fail catastrophically, causing loss of vehicle control. This is a safety-critical issue requiring immediate attention. The car should not be driven if structural suspension damage is suspected.
Independent garage
£500–£1,200
Specialist
£800–£1,800
Main dealer
£1,200–£2,500
Parts only
£300–£800
Dangerous
Brake hose deterioration (C452)
C4522003–200560k–120k miles
Flexible brake hoses on the Roadster deteriorate at 17.4 times the national fleet average, with failures typically occurring from 60,000 miles. The model's unique packaging and limited parts availability make this a critical safety concern. Deteriorated hoses can burst under braking pressure, causing complete brake failure on the affected circuit.
What happens if ignoredA burst brake hose causes immediate and complete loss of braking on that circuit. On a dual-circuit system, this typically means loss of braking to two wheels. This is a safety-critical failure that can cause serious accidents. Do not drive if brake hose failure is suspected.
Independent garage
£200–£400
Specialist
£300–£500
Main dealer
£400–£700
Parts only
£80–£200
Dangerous
Brake pipe corrosion (C452)
C4522003–200540k–120k miles
Brake pipe corrosion affects the Roadster at 5.3 times the national fleet average across all mileage bands, with 750 documented MOT failures. The model's limited corrosion protection and unique brake line routing make the rigid brake pipes vulnerable to salt corrosion, particularly in areas where the pipes are exposed to road spray and debris.
What happens if ignoredCorroded brake pipes can burst without warning, causing complete loss of braking on the affected circuit. This represents an immediate safety hazard that can result in serious accidents. Any evidence of brake pipe corrosion requires urgent professional inspection.
Independent garage
£300–£600
Specialist
£400–£800
Main dealer
£600–£1,200
Parts only
£100–£300
Major
Shock absorber bush excessive wear (C452)
C4522003–200540k–120k miles
The shock absorber bushes on the Roadster wear at an exceptionally high rate compared to conventional cars, with MOT data showing failure rates 23.5 times the national fleet average. The model's unique suspension setup and limited parts availability make this a significant cost factor. The bushes deteriorate from around 40,000 miles, causing handling deterioration and excessive tyre wear if not addressed promptly.
What happens if ignoredWorn bushes cause poor handling, excessive tyre wear, and potential MOT failure. If left unrepaired, metal-to-metal contact can damage more expensive suspension components. The car remains safe to drive but handling becomes progressively worse.
Independent garage
£300–£500
Specialist
£400–£700
Main dealer
£600–£1,000
Parts only
£150–£300

1 more known issues tracked

Including wear items, electrical niggles, and generation-specific problems. Check a specific car to see which issues apply to its age and mileage.

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MOT failure hotspots

Based on DVSA MOT test data. These are the items where the Smart Roadster Coupe 80 Auto(rhd) fails at a significantly higher rate than the average car.

Light unit fault
Lights & Electrics · 60-80k miles
MOT failure rate: 37x the fleet average
Sample: 402 tests
ABS fault
Suspension · 40-60k miles
MOT failure rate: 24x the fleet average
Sample: 205 tests
Suspension component damaged or corroded
Suspension · 80-100k miles
MOT failure rate: 20x the fleet average
Sample: 323 tests
Brake hoses perished or damaged
Brakes · 60-80k miles
MOT failure rate: 17x the fleet average
Sample: 503 tests
Wheel bearings worn
Suspension · 120-150k miles
MOT failure rate: 7.3x the fleet average
Sample: 115 tests
Fluid leak
Exhaust & Emissions · 40-60k miles
MOT failure rate: 5.7x the fleet average
Sample: 206 tests

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Related

Smart Roadster Coupe 80 Auto(rhd) reliability FAQs

What are the most common problems with the Smart Roadster Coupe 80 Auto(rhd)?

The Smart Roadster Coupe 80 Auto(rhd) has 5 known issues across 2 severity levels. The most serious are: Suspension component damage (C452), Brake hose deterioration (C452), Brake pipe corrosion (C452).

Is the Smart Roadster Coupe 80 Auto(rhd) reliable?

The Smart Roadster Coupe 80 Auto(rhd) has 3 dangerous and 2 major known issues. Most can be avoided with a thorough pre-purchase check and full service history.

How much does it cost to fix Smart Roadster Coupe 80 Auto(rhd) problems?

Repair costs range widely. The most significant issue (Suspension component damage (C452)) costs £500–£1,200 at an independent garage. Minor issues can be under £200. Always get a full inspection before buying.