Worth it to buy a diesel smart with 170km ?

[Toxophilite]

I don't know for sure what's amiss with my smart so as I try to determine that I need wheels

Locally there is a 2005 diesel smart hardtop that looks to be in good condition

It has 170km on it and I've read from a few sources that that is a rough life expectancy for the early diesel smarts before they start developing big problems.

I'm actually contemplating older echos but this car came up and I do like the diesel smarts.

 

What's the word here?

Edited August 24, 2025 by Toxophilite

[MikeT]

If the engine was looked after (big IF), it's a 250-350K km engine. Our first one was written off at 250K km and the engine was fine, thanks.

 

Just sold the all minty white Canada 1 cabriolet to our daughter for $2000 at 188K km. It runs better now than it did at 30,000 km.

Edited August 24, 2025 by MikeT

[MikeT]

The main point to check is the service indicator. If it's off the wall, the car has been abused... so run away.

 

The main other points to check are intercooler, whether the fuel lift pump and headlights have external relays and collision history. Turbo diesels dislike short commutes so ask how it was used. Ideal commute use pattern is at least 20 km each way at steady speed. Cooldown idle for turbo is key too if the car was used in a hilly area.