SMART FORTWO PASSION CDI AUTO (2012)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 135 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
81%
Total Tests (2024)
135
Avg Mileage
69,817 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£1,340
Is the 2012 SMART FORTWO PASSION CDI AUTO reliable?
Good reliability. Occasional issues but generally solid. That's close to the national average of 82%.
At 12 years old, 81% of SMART FORTWO PASSION CDI AUTOs from 2012 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 135 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 69,817 miles.
How does the 2012 SMART FORTWO PASSION CDI AUTO compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2012 SMART FORTWO PASSION CDI AUTO has 69,817 miles on the clock, which is below the expected 88,800 miles for a 12-year-old car. This suggests lighter use than average, which generally means less wear on major components.
Best year to buy a SMART FORTWO PASSION CDI AUTO?
The most reliable year is the 2013 model with a 86% MOT pass rate, while the 2009 model has the lowest at 75%. The 2012 sits between the two at 81%.
How much does a 2012 SMART FORTWO PASSION CDI AUTO cost to run?
Based on 7,400 miles/year (UK average), current fuel prices, and repair likelihood from MOT pass rate data. Insurance not included.
SMART FORTWO PASSION CDI AUTO by Year
Checking a specific SMART FORTWO PASSION CDI AUTO?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2012 SMART FORTWO PASSION CDI AUTO
The 2012 SMART FORTWO PASSION CDI AUTO is a city car with a 799cc diesel engine. 135 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a rare model on UK roads. Among all cars from 2012, the average MOT pass rate is 78%, and this model beats that benchmark.
With an average of 69,817 miles at 12 years old, SMART FORTWO PASSION CDI AUTO owners tend to use this car less than the typical driver.
2012 SMART FORTWO PASSION CDI AUTO Fuel Costs
The modest 799cc diesel engine keeps fuel costs low, which is a real advantage for a city car. Expect around 55 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £905 per year at current diesel prices of 148p per litre (based on 7,400 miles per year). Diesel cars of this age should have their DPF (diesel particulate filter) checked, as replacements can be costly.
What does it cost to own a 2012 SMART FORTWO PASSION CDI AUTO?
Total estimated annual running cost is £1,340 (£112/month), broken down as £905 fuel, £30 road tax, £55 MOT, and £350 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 81% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
SMART FORTWO PASSION CDI AUTO Reliability Trend
The SMART FORTWO PASSION CDI AUTO has maintained consistent MOT pass rates across model years, varying by only 2 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2012 SMART FORTWO PASSION CDI AUTO
At 12 years old, the SMART FORTWO PASSION CDI AUTO is firmly in budget territory. Purchase prices are low, but check for rust, worn suspension bushes, and electrical gremlins. A full service history is especially valuable at this age. If you're flexible on year, the 2013 model has the highest pass rate at 86%.
Alternatives to the 2012 SMART FORTWO PASSION CDI AUTO
The SMART FORTWO PASSION CDI AUTO is actually the most reliable option among similar diesel city cars from this era. Here are comparable diesel cars with similar engines:
- VAUXHALL ASTRA (2012) 78% pass rate (-3%) from 91,949 tests
- VOLKSWAGEN POLO (2014) 80% pass rate (-1%) from 81,831 tests
- FIAT 500 (2014) 78% pass rate (-3%) from 73,839 tests
- SEAT IBIZA (2013) 76% pass rate (-5%) from 31,617 tests