451 smart fortwo

Servicing mileage

2009-01-09T20:11:49.633Z

Thanks for the info.

How do I check the build date?

Servicing mileage

2009-01-07T21:02:18.796Z

Rang the dealer and they said it was dependent on use.

So booked it in. Have to say I'm a little disappointed that it needs servicing so soon.

Has any one compaired power steering vs NO power steering?

2008-08-05T21:28:41.572Z

Only today was I thinking how glad I was to have chosen the power steering option.

Let me be clear, the weight is the not the issue, the rack feels quicker and is more direct. Let's also be honest here, this is not a "sports car" (the definition of this is blurred somewhat by cars such as the XC90 sport which I have owned) and there isn't much steering feel in either the assisted or non assisted cars, and frankly steering feel is not really needed on a car of this type. I get my steering feel kicks from a different rear engined German "sports car".

The smart is none the less reasonable fun around town, and in my opinion more fun with the quicker more direct power steering.

How to Install a Custom GPS/Navigation System

2008-03-16T20:29:47.692Z

photo

How to Install a Custom GPS/Navigation System

2008-03-16T20:23:33.997Z

Well, thanks for the comprehensive instructions.

I have finally successfully copied your install.
I left out the TMC plug in module for the traffic. Siting the jack was too difficult.

I have however opted for TomTom traffic via GPRS which is just as good but better in that no wires are required.

How to Install a Custom GPS/Navigation System

2008-03-02T19:16:21.149Z

Thanks for the info.

Yes keeping the traffic jack in reliable contact could prove to be a problem.
I tend to lack patience when executing DIY which can result in costly mistakes and am reluctant to start making holes in the dashboard at present.

In the mean time whilst I decide what to do I'm going to go the Brodit route. It's a two part solution with an active Mount for the 720t . The only problem with this is that they don't as yet have a specific mount for the 451.

Will keep you posted.

How to Install a Custom GPS/Navigation System

2008-03-02T17:36:43.379Z

Hi, thanks for the detailed guide.
Based on this guide I've also plumped for the 720 but in T form which comes with an TM receiver for traffic.

A couple of questions:

1. What is the best technique for removing the centre console? I've undone the torx screw under the hazard switch and pulled the centre console. There is some forward movement but I cant get it loose and am reluctant to pull too hard.

2. The traffic info comes from a plug in receiver. Basically a long piece of wire with a jack plug on the end.
This may well make using the dash cradle impossible if I want to use the traffic info. any suggestions? I haven't dismantled the desk cradle yet - haven't got the right size torx attachment

Has any one compaired power steering vs NO power steering?

2008-02-07T19:31:06.091Z

I have driven a non assisted 71 bhp car and non assisted 84bhp car.
I am awaiting delivery of my 84 bhp power assisted car.

Whilst the steering is certainly not heavy I opted for the power assistance on the basis of a CAR magazine review of the new 451. I too found it a little lacking in directness and hope that EPS solves this.
http://www.carmagazine.co.uk/Drives/Search-Results/First-drives/Smart-ForTwo/?R=EPI-4326&content-block=2

"And the steering is transformed; there’s little feel from the electric system but it’s far quicker and more direct. The non-assisted system isn’t excessively heavy, but the lack of help exposes its still slightly rubbery responses."