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Smart · Convertible / Roadster · 2003–2007

Smart Roadster 452

Weaknesses, engine ratings and buying advice

★★★★★
1.0 / 5.0 · Based on 1 engine variants

Engine Overview

The Smart Roadster 452 is available with one engine variant at 50 hp. 1 variants had engine changes — the model year is crucial.

0.7L Turbo · Benziner· 61–101 PS Engine Change
2003 2005
Stay Away! 4 weaknesses
Show all weaknesses →
2003 2005
Stay Away! 4 weaknesses
2003 2005
Stay Away! 4 weaknesses

The Smart 0.7L Turbo (Benziner, 61–101 PS) comes with 3 different engines: M160E7 (2003–2005, Stay Away!) und M160E7 (2003–2005, Stay Away!) und M160E7 (2003–2005, Stay Away!). Pay attention to the model year for the 0.7L Turbo!

Vehicle Weaknesses

WeaknessCost
✖SAM Unit Destroyed by Water Ingress

The SAM unit (control module for fuses and actuators) sits in the driver's footwell and is damaged by water ingress through unsealed body seams and the tray seal. Capacitors and circuit tracks are destroyed; repair is expensive.

Symptoms: Indicators flashing erratically, wipers fail, vehicle does not start, complete electrical failure
from 70,000 km
Ad Smart Roadster 452 SAM control unitSmart 452 SAM repair
 Medium
✖Sensor Failures (Camshaft Sensor, Throttle Position Sensor)

Various sensors on the Roadster are failure-prone, including the camshaft sensor and throttle position sensor. Water ingress into ECU housings or vibration damage is often the cause. Leads to sporadic engine shutdowns while driving.

Symptoms: Engine cuts out while driving, engine warning light, irregular idle, limp mode
from 70,000 km
Ad Smart Roadster 452 camshaftnsensorSmart 452 throttle bodynsensor
 Low

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Known Problems and Issues

A total of 17 weaknesses have been documented for the Smart Roadster 452 (2003–2007) — 4 engine-related and 13 vehicle-related. One problem engine: M160E7 (0.7L Turbo). Typical issues affect Electronics, Body, Rust, Gearbox.

Roadster (M160E7, 2003–2005) — Stay Away!: Wastegate linkage corrodes and sticks, Turbocharger oil supply blocked, Excessive oil loss from the engine. Power: 61 PS.

Roadster (M160E7, 2003–2005) — Stay Away!: Wastegate linkage corrodes and sticks, Turbocharger oil supply blocked, Excessive oil loss from the engine. Power: 82 PS.

Roadster (M160E7, 2003–2005) — Stay Away!: Wastegate linkage corrodes and sticks, Turbocharger oil supply blocked, Excessive oil loss from the engine. Power: 101 PS.

What to watch out for with the Smart Roadster? See the detailed listing of all engine and vehicle weaknesses in the sections above.

Frequently Asked Questions

What problems and weaknesses does the Smart Roadster 452 have? +
The Smart Roadster 452 has 4 known engine weaknesses and 13 vehicle weaknesses.
What should I look for when buying a used Smart Roadster 452? +
faq.watch_a_avoid
Which engine is recommended? +
None of the available engines are rated 'Good Choice'. Stay away! The most fun to drive is the M160E7 (0.7L Turbo). Problem engine: M160E7 (0.7L Turbo) — stay away!
Which Smart Roadster 452 engine is the most fun? +
The {code} ({displacement}) offers the most driving fun in the Smart Roadster 452 — rated: "Fun to Drive!". {description} Only 61 hp, but 790 kg, low centre of gravity and a mid-engine layout. Surprisingly lively on country roads — even the base version delivers real roadster feel.
Is the Smart Roadster 452 worth buying used? +
Caution is advised with the Smart Roadster 452 — 1 of 1 engine variants are rated 'Stay Away!'. The engine choice is crucial.
What horsepower variants are available for the Smart Roadster 452? +
The Smart Roadster 452 is available with engine variants from 50 to 101 hp. Petrol: M160E7 (0.7L Turbo).

Last updated: February 2026 · All information without guarantee