Does the smart have a rev limiter ?

[John_H]

Originally Posted by bikerboy

So if I put it in 1st (in manual) and I keep on the gas it will automatically shift to 2nd for me before I do any damage??

Yes, absolutely. I've found myself in second gear after a turn where I forgot I was in manual mode. Since I was in a turn, I couldn't shift with the paddles and was in second before I got to the shift lever.

The ECU will upshift automatically at 6500 rpm in manual mode and downshift at some unspecified value to keep the engine from stalling.

I've been in manual mode around 6k rpm (3rd gear up a very steep hill, 65mph) but don't care for the sound.

I've also noticed what you may have encountered: when you floorboard the gas pedal to get up to speed quickly then let off the pedal, the engine stays in the gear it was in when you let off allowing the engine to brake (not break) at those high rpms. To have the automode upshift, you have to apply some gas so the ECU knows you want to keep going at-speed.

[bikerboy]

Okay great, so I don't have to worry about redlining? I'm a pretty aggressive driver when I'm in the smart. Good to know I can just focus on driving and not have to worry about over revving her. THANKS

[John_H]

Right, no worries. I'd recommend shifting at some point while in manual mode since driving at 6k rpm in 2nd gear through the neighborhood might be a little disturbing.

[mvaldes]

Originally Posted by Duckhunter

could be why some are getting lower fuel mileage.

I'm quite happy with my mpg's and less than 3K on my tach is usually only seen idling at red lights...

[jetfuel]

..yes biker..the car knows you were checking the babe on the other car and forgot to shift...so it will keep you from looking bad....lol

jetfuel

[bikerboy]

:woohoo

[GiantKiller]

It also wont let the engine go past mid rpm if not under load( in neutral)
I thought it would be funny to enter in exhaust rap contest with some Uncorked Big Blocks, but it wont even let it rev out at all in neutral.

[mdfortwoguy]

Originally Posted by GiantKiller

It also wont let the engine go past mid rpm if not under load( in neutral)
I thought it would be funny to enter in exhaust rap contest with some Uncorked Big Blocks, but it wont even let it rev out at all in neutral.

For good reason... unloaded high RPM is asking for trouble.