Intending to find alternative energy to save the environment, the automobile industry came up with the relatively new smart car technology that has been around since the 1980s.
Even though smart cars became a popular option in the European Union, these vehicles saw limited availability in the United States. The first smart car arrived in the US only in 2008. By 2017, the United States discontinued all petrol-powered Smart cars and focused mainly on electric smart cars.
With not much information to depend on, aspirating car owners are left pondering, ‘how long do smart cars last?’ Keep reading to find out how reliable and long-lasting Smart cars are and how you can keep them around for long.
How Many Miles Will Smart Cars Last?
With careful driving and proper maintenance and repairs, smart car vehicles can last between 150,000 to 200,000 miles. In some cases, certain smart cars have made the mark of crossing more than 450,000 miles.
On average, a smart car has a lifespan that ranges between 10 to 15 years and a mileage of 15,000 miles annually. The smart vehicle can last up to 20 years without causing any major issues in moderate climatic conditions and terrains.
Having a reliability index of 52, smart cars are known to be the best vehicles in the market. The mileage of smart cars is an attractive feature, as it provides double the average mileage when it comes to the normal petrol or diesel-run cars.
The increased mileage is because these cars are light in weight, with just 1500 to 1800 pounds. Due to their lightweight nature, these smart cars do not require more energy to run on the road. For instance, to drive around in the city, a smart car needs just 32 miles per gallon on average.
When it comes to older gas tank smart car models, you need to stop and fill the tank every 350 miles, as you get just 40 miles per gallon. On the other hand, the electric car that runs on its battery can last for an average of 84 miles after each battery recharge.
Though the estimate seems to be optimistic and reliable, the cost of repairs and maintenance reduces the viability of getting a smart car. Based on your budget, opt for the one that suits your preference and specific requirements.
How Long Will The Smart Car Engine Last?
The main power generating chamber of a smart car, the engine, is the complex part of the vehicle that consists of more than 30,000 components. With numerous parts, it’s highly likely to go wrong after a certain period of time.
Repairing the smart car engine can cost between $5000 – $10,000, making it one of the most expensive repairs. Due to the complexity of the car’s engine, it takes hours to remove the engine and replace the parts. Unless it is a relatively new car, most smart car owners prefer to replace the car if the engine goes wrong.
To ensure the smooth running of the smart car engine for longer periods, the owner must conduct regular maintenance, which includes filter inspection, fluid changes, and spark plug replacement.
Even if it is a small issue, avoid driving with it, as it can escalate quickly, leading to expensive and massive repairs. You can save on the maintenance charges by doing most of these repairs on your own.
How Long Will The Smart Car Transmission Last?
The main purpose of the vehicle’s transmission is to transfer the power from the engine to the different parts, especially the wheels. If your smart car’s transmission becomes faulty, one of the main symptoms you’ll notice is a shift in the vehicle’s control.
Though the transmission is another expensive repair, it will last for up to seven years if maintained well. On average, repairing the smart car’s transmission will cost around $3000 – $4000.
How To Prolong The Lifespan Of Your Smart Car?
By performing regular maintenance, smart cars can last up to 10 to 15 years. These maintenance routines can be done at home on your own to avoid the service center charges.
The best way to extend the lifespan of your smart car is to stick to all the recalls. Replacing the defective parts with common issues will prevent them from becoming worse and causing serious repairs in the future. Replacing the older parts of the Smart car regularly will deliver optimal performance to your vehicle in the long run.
Some of the smart car parts that need to be replaced on a regular basis are:
- Spark plugs.
- Rotors and brakes.
- Wheels.
- Windshield wipers
In spite of the compact and small size, smart cars are a loyal investment with a huge price tag if you’re willing to pay for the necessary repairs. With proper care, this ride is sure to stay with you for a decade or two.
If you’re someone interested in getting a fuel-efficient, eco-friendly and compact vehicle, buying a smart car would make a great investment. Smart cars will last a long time if maintained well by conducting regular repair work schedules.
