Smart Fortwo HV Battery Problems and Repair
- Hosea Embury
- Aug 19
- 3 min read
Updated: Aug 20
If you own a 3rd Generation Smart Fortwo Electric Drive, also known as the (ED3) you might find yourself frustrated when your vehicle won’t start or charge. This is often due to the HV battery that needs to be revived. This is a common big problem these little cars face and are often scraped because of it. Thankfully, Embury Automotive can help bring your battery back to life and get you on the road again.
Understanding the Battery System
The Smart Fortwo Electric Drive uses a lithium-ion battery that powers the vehicle. Over time, factors such as age, temperature fluctuations, and long periods of inactivity can diminish the battery’s ability to hold a charge. This is normal, however the ED3 battery is a very robust, German-made battery and have been known to last much longer than Asian made counterparts. With proper care these batteries should outlast the car and easily get you Smart to the 150,000 mile mark. The weakness is...
The battery management system. The (BMS) in your Smart Fortwo keeps a close watch on the battery’s health and performance. If the BMS senses that the battery charge is critically low, it may prevent the vehicle from starting to safeguard the battery from further damage. This feature helps prolong your battery's lifespan. Another thing among many, that the BMS is programmed to do is to deplete the charge from the battery if the low voltage (12V) battery has been removed or discharged for an extended period. This is known as "Junkyard Mode". This would prevent an electrocution situation if someone were to unknowingly tamper with a charged high voltage (HV) battery or HV wiring.
Common Symptoms of a Dead HV Battery
Before diving into solutions, let’s identify some common signs that indicate your Smart Fortwo's HV battery might be dead. Look out for these symptoms:
Dashboard warning shows "Drive Sys. Engine off". or "HV System Workshop" or "Malfunction, Service Required".
Your vehicle does not respond when you press the accelerator in "R" or "D".
The battery will not charge even when connected to a charger.
If you notice any of these issues, your battery likely needs some attention.
Troubleshooting the Charging Issue
Check the Charger and Connections
The first step in troubleshooting is to ensure your charger is working properly. Inspect the charger for visible damage and ensure it is plugged into a functioning outlet. Also, check the connections between the charger and the vehicle. Loose or corroded connections can hinder the charging process.
If you can use a scan tool to clear the trouble codes.
If all checks out but you are still unable to start, move, or charge your Smart, you may need to book a battery repair service with Embury Automotive.
Reviving the Battery
The revitalizing/repair process may take a few weeks to finish. This does not include the time to remove the HV battery pack from your Smart.
Preventing Future Battery Issues
After repair, if successful, To avoid facing similar issues down the line, consider these preventive measures:
Regularly Drive Your Vehicle: If you don’t use your Smart Fortwo often, aim to drive it at least once a week to keep the battery charged.
Maintain Battery Health: Check the battery terminals for corrosion occasionally and clean them if needed.
Store Properly: If you expect to store your vehicle for an extended duration, consider using a battery maintainer to keep it charged.
Get Your Smart Fortwo Back on the Road
Reviving your Smart Fortwo Electric Drive battery might seem challenging at first. But with the right approach, you can quickly get back on the road. By familiarizing yourself with the battery system, troubleshooting effectively, and taking preventive measures, you can ensure your vehicle remains reliable and ready for your next adventure. Don’t let a dead battery hinder your enjoyment of the unique driving experience that the Smart Fortwo provides. Take action today and revive your battery!
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