SMART FORTWO PULSE CDI AUTO (2012)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 60 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
77%
Total Tests (2024)
60
Avg Mileage
63,436 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£1,490
Is the 2012 SMART FORTWO PULSE CDI AUTO reliable?
Average reliability. Expect some repairs as it ages. That's close to the national average of 82%.
At 12 years old, 77% of SMART FORTWO PULSE CDI AUTOs from 2012 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 60 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 63,436 miles.
How does the 2012 SMART FORTWO PULSE CDI AUTO compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2012 SMART FORTWO PULSE CDI AUTO has 63,436 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 PULSE CDI AUTO?
The most reliable year is the 2013 model with a 86% MOT pass rate, while the 2011 model has the lowest at 71%. The 2012 sits between the two at 77%.
How much does a 2012 SMART FORTWO PULSE 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 PULSE CDI AUTO by Year
Checking a specific SMART FORTWO PULSE CDI AUTO?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2012 SMART FORTWO PULSE CDI AUTO
The 2012 SMART FORTWO PULSE CDI AUTO is a city car with a 799cc diesel engine. 60 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 falls short of that benchmark.
With an average of 63,436 miles at 12 years old, SMART FORTWO PULSE CDI AUTO owners tend to use this car less than the typical driver.
2012 SMART FORTWO PULSE 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 PULSE CDI AUTO?
Total estimated annual running cost is £1,490 (£124/month), broken down as £905 fuel, £30 road tax, £55 MOT, and £500 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 77% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
SMART FORTWO PULSE CDI AUTO Reliability Trend
Newer SMART FORTWO PULSE CDI AUTOs show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 6 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2012 SMART FORTWO PULSE CDI AUTO
At 12 years old, the SMART FORTWO PULSE 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%. Note: with only 60 tests in our data, these figures should be treated as indicative rather than definitive.
Alternatives to the 2012 SMART FORTWO PULSE CDI AUTO
If reliability is your priority, there are 3 similar cars with a higher MOT pass rate. Here are comparable diesel cars with similar engines:
- VAUXHALL ASTRA (2012) 78% pass rate (+1%) from 91,949 tests
- VOLKSWAGEN POLO (2014) 80% pass rate (+3%) from 81,831 tests
- FIAT 500 (2014) 78% pass rate (+1%) from 73,839 tests
- SEAT IBIZA (2013) 76% pass rate (-1%) from 31,617 tests