Just bought a 2017 Smart Fortwo w 17,000 miles. Second day of driving the check engine light came on. It’s now att he second mechanic who is sending it to a third mechanic to have the catalyst replaced. Getting this car was a huge mistake. The part may be covered under warranty but it doesn’t cover the previous expense the other shops have charged. The shop it’s being sent to is hours away I really don’t have time or money like this. Just want to warn ppl.
Welcome to SCoA.
LEMON not...
A "lemon" is generally defined as a new car, truck, or van that's been back to the dealer at least four times for the same repair or has been off the road for service a total of 30 days during the first 12-24 months/12,000-18,000 miles after delivery.
Repetitive defect has to substantially impair the value, safety, and/or reliability of the vehicle.
So at four years and 17,000 miles you have a newly purchased pre-owned MY17 smart with a potential Catalytic Converter failure and likely no Lemon Law protection? Does your state require emissions testing? Was the purchase "As-is?"
Components typically covered under the 8/80 Federal Emission Warranty include emission parts which must perform for an extended period of time without performance issues. These components include a vehicle's Catalytic Converter, Transmission Control Module, and Powertrain Control Module and/or Engine Control Unit (PCM or ECU).
Unfortunately, unlike the M-B/smart Center "Warranty" your local repair shop WILL charge you for diagnostics and parts as you are outside the manufacturers network.
No warning required as this used car purchase came with all the UNKNOWNS, warts and pimples of four years and 17,000 miles!