Passion stalling out a bit

[ronstaug]

I always buy premium in a busy station. Just noticed on last cpl of days, cars stalls once in a while in between gears. Also, "stutters" a bit while driving. Could it be the up to 10% ethanol in gas or maybe a tiny bit of water that got mixed in with last fill up? My intention is to drive it until almost empty, then fill it up & see if all is OK. Any other ideas? I just had the Smart Car up @ dealer but that was for a defective sunshade & some other minor issues like A.M. stations on radio not working. Nothing to do with engine. Thanks, Ron

[Cruising n Coasting]

This is normal. The tranny has its issues and with time you will get used to it. If you shift with the paddles, it will have a 70-80% improvement. Radio is also normal. Good luck and welcome to the club.

[sheureka]

Originally Posted by ronstaug

I always buy premium in a busy station. Just noticed on last cpl of days, cars stalls once in a while in between gears. Also, "stutters" a bit while driving.

How much have you driven since the fillup? I had that problem when I overfilled at a pump that didn't shut off. After about 50 miles it was fine. And I don't think it's "normal" - that was the only time it's happened to me. - sheureka

[ronstaug]

Funny you mention the last fill up. I topped it all the way to the very top, unusual for me, have only about 25 miles on that tank. Why would filling to very top cause occasionally stalling out? Also, another said losing A.M. stations is "normal". Huh? Why would that be, have never encountered or heard of that problem before & neither have the Smart people. They have some part on order that should be in this week. If that doesn't work I'm going to insist on a new radio. During the day, I prefer to listen to "talk radio" and that's on A.M. stations. Ron

[JPaul]

Originally Posted by ronstaug

Funny you mention the last fill up. I topped it all the way to the very top, unusual for me, have only about 25 miles on that tank. Why would filling to very top cause occasionally stalling out? [...]

Because of the carbon filter whatchamacallit:
http://www.smartcarofamerica.com/for...513-post7.html

Plus, according to the Owner's Manual page 170

do not top off or overfill.

[mdfortwoguy]

Agreed... trying to superfill these cars is asking for an SES light and dealer visit.

[ronstaug]

thanks to all, especially RussBarnes of Tn. (we used to live in Brentood, South of Nashville way back when). Now I know why you're not supposed to top them off. Gratzi! Ron