2012 SMART FORTWO COUPE tow

fresh air can flow freely into the vehicle
interior.
R Do not obstruct air vents or ventilation
grilles in the vehicle interior.
i For draft-free ventilation, move the
sliders
for the center air vents and side
air vents to the middle position.
Center air vents :
Left center air vent, adjustable
; Right center air vent, adjustable
X Adjusting: Turn slider : or ; to the
left, right, up, or down.
X Opening: Turn slider : or ; inwards
towards the center console.
X Closing: Turn slider : or ; fully
outwards towards the side window.
Side air vents Side air vents on driver’s side illustrated as
example
:
Left side air vent, adjustable
; Left side defroster air vent, fixed X
Adjusting: Turn slider : to the left,
right, up, or down.
X Opening:
Turn slider : inwards towards
the center console.
X Closing: Turn slider : fully outwards
towards the side window. Adjusting air distribution
Symbol Function
z
Directs air to the windshield
and side windows
O
Directs air to the footwells
and air distribution is
reduced

at the center and side
air vents P
Directs air through the center
and side air vents
i
You can also turn the air distribution
control to a position between two
symbols.
Heating Control panel (Y page 103).
X
Turn air distribution control = to the
desired symbol.
The air distribution is controlled
depending on the position of the air
distribution control.
Air conditioning with climate control Control panel (Y page 103).
X
Turn air distribution control B to the
desired symbol.
The air distribution is controlled
depending on the position of the air
distribution control. HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning)
105
>> Controls. Z

Storage tray* in center console
X
Installing: Slide storage tray ; onto the
cones on the center console until it
engages audibly.
X Removing: Press levers :
simultaneously
towards the storage tray.
X Pull storage tray ;
away from the center
console.
X Opening: Pull handle =.
X Closing: Swivel storage tray ; back
until it engages.
Parcel nets Parcel nets are located on the in-board
sides of the seat backrests.
i
Vehicles equipped with an armrest*

on
the driver’s seat, have a parcel net on the
passenger seat only.
i Each parcel net is intended for light-
weight items of below 0.9 lb (0.4 kg). Example illustration: Parcel net on passenger
seat
:
Parcel net
Drawer* A drawer is located below the audio
system*
13
. X
Opening: Press on the center of
drawer :.
The drawer opens slightly.
X Pull drawer: to open completely.
X Closing: Press on drawer : until it
engages.
Storage compartment in the tailgate
(coupé only) You can store small objects in the storage
compartment in the tailgate.
13 Vehicles with audio system basic* only. Loading and storing
111
>> Controls.
* optional Z

X
Opening: Open the tailgates.
X Pull handle : on the inside of the
tailgate backward.
X Lift up the storage compartment cover.
X Closing: Close storage compartment
cover :.
X Press on the “PRESS” marking in the
middle of storage compartment cover :
until it engages audibly.
X Close the tailgates ( Y page 55).Loading instructions
G
WARNING
Transport heavy or hard objects in the
cargo compartment, not in the passenger
compartment.
Always fasten items being carried as
securely as possible using fastening
materials appropriate for the weight and
size of the load.
In an accident, during hard braking or
sudden maneuvers, loose items may be
thrown around inside the vehicle, causing
injury to vehicle occupants. G
WARNING
To help avoid personal injury during a
collision or sudden maneuver, exercise
care when storing objects in the vehicle.
Put luggage or cargo in the cargo
compartment if possible. Do not pile
luggage or cargo higher than the seat
backrests. Keep compartment lids closed. This will
help to prevent stored objects from being
thrown about and injuring vehicle
occupants during
R
braking
R vehicle maneuvers
R an accident G
WARNING
No racks or loads may be secured to the roof
of the vehicle, as
R the
panorama roof* may be damaged, thus
injuring persons
R this can have a substantial adverse
effect on the driving dynamics of the
vehicle, thus causing accidents
R the rack and/or the load could detach and
through this cause an accident or other
people could be injured by the load and/
or rack that has fallen off G
WARNING
Make sure the tailgate is closed when the
engine is running and while driving.
Among other dangers, deadly carbon
monoxide (CO) gases may enter vehicle
interior resulting in unconsciousness and
death. G
WARNING
Do not store any flammable substances
inside the vehicle that could ignite and
start a fire. G
WARNING
The manufacturer has not approved your
vehicle for towing a trailer. A trailer can
permanently impair driving safety.
The gross vehicle weight which is the
weight

of the vehicle including fuel, tools,
installed accessories, passengers, and
luggage/cargo must never exceed the load
limit and the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating
(GVWR) for your vehicle as specified on the
placard located on the driver’s door 112
Loading and storing
>> Controls.
* optional

B‑pillar (Y page 214). In addition, the
load must be distributed in such a way so
that the weight on each axle never exceeds
the
Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) for the
front and rear axle. The GVWR and GAWR for
your vehicle are indicated on the
certification label which can be found on
the driver’s door B‑pillar.
For more information, see “Loading the
vehicle” ( Y page 130).
The handling characteristics of a fully
loaded vehicle depend greatly on the load
distribution. It is therefore recommended
to load the vehicle with the heaviest items
being placed towards the front of the
vehicle.
Please pay attention to and comply with the
following instructions when loading the
vehicle and transporting cargo:
R Always place items being carried
against seat backrests, and fasten them
as securely as possible.
R The heaviest portion of the cargo should
always be kept as low as possible against
seat backrests.
R Do not stack loads higher than the top
edge of the head restraints.
R Make sure no luggage/cargo items can get
above or next to the driver’s and/or
passenger seat into the passenger
compartment.
R Make sure luggage/cargo is properly
secured.
R Always use, if so equipped, cargo net*
when transporting cargo.
Do not carry any unnecessary weight in the
vehicle. This increases vehicle weight,
which results in increased energy
consumption. Useful features
Sun visors
The sun visors protect you from sun glare
while driving. Glare through the windshield
X
Swing sun visor : down.
Glare through a side window X
Swing sun visor : down.
X Disengage sun visor : from
mounting ;.
X Pivot sun visor : to the side. Sun screen*
The sun screen provides protection from
sun rays and from heat generated by the
panorama roof*.
The sun screen can be adjusted to any
desired position. X
Opening or closing: Move sun screen :
forward or backward using the handle. Useful features
113
>> Controls.
* optional Z

The first 1000 miles (1500 km)
In the Operation section you will find
detailed information on operating,
maintaining and caring for your vehicle.
The
more cautiously you treat your vehicle
during the break-in period, the more
satisfied you will be with its performance
later on.
R Drive your vehicle during the first
1 000 miles (1 500 km) at varying but
moderate vehicle and engine speeds.
R During this period, avoid heavy loads
(full throttle driving) and excessive
engine speeds (no more than 2
/ 3 of
maximum rpm in each gear).
R Shift gears in a timely manner.
R Do not attempt to slow the vehicle down
by shifting to a lower gear.
R Avoid accelerating by kickdown.
After 1 000 miles (1 500 km), you may
gradually increase vehicle and engine
speeds to the permissible maximum.
All of the above instructions also apply
when driving the first 1 000 miles (1 500 km)
after the engine has been replaced.
i Always obey applicable speed limits. At the gas station
Refueling
G
WARNING
Gasoline is highly flammable and
poisonous.
It burns violently and can cause
serious personal injury.
Never allow sparks, flame or smoking
materials near gasoline!
Turn off the engine before refueling.
Whenever you are around gasoline, avoid
inhaling fumes and skin or clothing
contact. Extinguish all smoking materials. Direct skin contact with fuels and the
inhalation of fuel vapors are damaging to
your health.
! Do not put diesel fuel in vehicles with
gasoline engines. Do not mix gasoline
with diesel fuel. Even small quantities
of diesel fuel will damage the injection
system. Damage caused by adding diesel
fuel will not be covered by the smart
Limited Warranty.
If diesel fuel has mixed with gasoline,
do not start the engine. Otherwise the
catalytic converter will be irreparably
damaged.
Contact an authorized smart center or
Roadside Assistance immediately and
have the vehicle towed.
! Damage

resulting from mixing gasoline
with diesel fuel is not covered by the
smart Limited Warranty.
The fuel filler flap is located on the
passenger side towards the rear. Locking/
unlocking the vehicle with the key
automatically locks/unlocks the fuel filler
flap.
i In case the central locking system does
not release the fuel filler flap, or the
opening mechanisms is clamping,
contact Roadside Assistance or an
authorized smart center. :
Opening the fuel filler flap
; Inserting the fuel filler cap
= Fuel filler cap116
At the gas station
>> Operation.

The brake fluid level is correct when it
is between the minimum mark and the
maximum mark.
R
If the brake fluid level has fallen
slightly below the minimum mark,
drive to an authorized smart center.
R If the brake fluid level has fallen
significantly below the minimum
mark, call Roadside Assistance or an
authorized smart center.
X Remount the service flap and close it
(Y page 120). Tires and wheels
Safety notes
Contact an authorized smart center for
information on tested and recommended
rims and tires for summer and winter
operation. They can also offer advice
concerning tire service and purchase. G
WARNING
Replace rims or tires with the same
designation, manufacturer and type as
shown on the original part. For further
information contact an authorized smart
center.
If incorrectly sized rims and tires
are mounted, the wheel brakes or
suspension components can be damaged.
Also, the operating clearance of the wheels
and the tires may no longer be correct. G
WARNING
Worn, old tires can cause accidents. If the
tire
tread is worn to minimum tread depth,
or if the tires have sustained damage,
replace them.
When replacing rims, only use genuine
smart wheel bolts specified for the
particular rim type. Failure to do so can
result in the bolts loosening and possibly
an accident.
Retreaded tires are not tested or
recommended by smart, since previous damage cannot always be recognized on
retreads. The operating safety of the
vehicle cannot be assured when such tires
are used.
G
WARNING
If you feel a sudden significant vibration
or ride disturbance, or you suspect that
possible damage to your vehicle has
occurred, you should turn on the hazard
warning flashers, carefully slow down, and
drive

with caution to an area which is a safe
distance from the road.
Inspect the tires and the vehicle underbody
for possible damage. If the vehicle or tires
appear unsafe, have the vehicle towed to the
nearest authorized smart center or tire
dealer for repairs. G
WARNING
Do not drive with a flat tire. A flat tire
affects the ability to steer or brake the
vehicle. You could lose control of the
vehicle.

Continued driving with a flat tire
or driving at high speed with a flat tire
will cause excessive heat build-up and
possibly a fire.
Modifications to the brake system and
wheels and the use of brake dust rings are
not permissible. Important guidelines
R Only

use sets of tires and rims of the same
type and make.
R Tires must be of the correct size for the
rim.
R Break in new tires for approximately
60 miles (100 km) at moderate speeds.
R Regularly check the tires and rims for
damage. Dented or bent rims can cause
tire pressure loss and damage to the tire
beads.124
Tires and wheels
>> Operation.

Catalytic converter
Your smart is equipped with monolithic-
type catalytic converter, an important
element in conjunction with the oxygen
sensors to achieve substantial control of
the pollutants in the exhaust emissions.
Keep your vehicle in proper operating
condition by following our recommended
maintenance instructions as outlined in
your Maintenance Booklet. G
WARNING
The catalytic converter can become very
hot. Coming into contact with the catalytic
converter could result in burns.
Note the following:
R Do not remove the protective heat guards.
R Do not apply any underseal.
R As with any vehicle, do not idle, park, or
operate this vehicle in areas where
combustible materials such as grass,
hay, or leaves can come into contact with
the hot exhaust system, as these
materials could be ignited and cause a
vehicle fire.
! To prevent damage to the catalytic
converter, only use premium unleaded
gasoline in this vehicle.
Any noticeable irregularities in engine
operation should be repaired promptly.
Otherwise, excessive unburned fuel may
reach the catalytic converter, causing it
to overheat and potentially start a fire.
It is essential to observe the following
points, as there is otherwise a danger of
overheating and the catalytic converter
may be damaged.
R Fill up only with premium unleaded
gasoline. Even small quantities of
leaded gasoline can damage the catalytic
converter.
R Make sure you adhere to the prescribed
service intervals.
R Never run the fuel tank empty. R
If
the engine starts to misfire, bring the
vehicle to an immediate standstill
without endangering traffic.
R If the engine fails to start the first time,
you should not try to start it any more
than three times in succession.
R Do not try to start for more than four
seconds at a time. Tires
G
WARNING
If you feel a sudden significant vibration
or ride disturbance, or you suspect that
possible damage to your vehicle has
occurred, you should turn on the hazard
warning flashers, carefully slow down, and
drive

with caution to an area which is a safe
distance from the road.
Inspect the tires and the vehicle underbody
for possible damage. If the vehicle or tires
appear unsafe, have the vehicle towed to the
nearest smart center or tire dealer for
repairs.
Treadwear indicators (TWI) are required by
law. These indicators are located in six
places on the tread circumference and
become visible at a tread depth of
approximately 1
/ 16 in (1.6 mm), at which
point the tire is considered worn and
should be replaced.
The treadwear indicator appears as a solid
band across the tread. G
WARNING
Although the applicable federal motor
vehicle safety laws consider a tire to be
worn when the treadwear indicators (TWI)
become visible at approximately

1
/ 16 in
(1.6 mm), we recommend that you do not allow
your tires to wear down to that level. As
tread depth approaches 1
/ 8 in (3 mm), the
adhesion properties on a wet road are
sharply reduced. 146
Driving instructions
>> Operation.

Exterior Special
considerations Lightly soiled
Hand-/Automatic
car washes Heavily soiled
Hand-/Automatic
car washes
Wheels and wheel
covers Two-layer metallic
paint (high-gloss) Car shampoo
concentrate, rim
care Car shampoo
concentrate, rim
care
Retractable soft top PAC fabric Car shampoo
concentrate, soft
top cleaner,
impregnation spray Car shampoo
concentrate, soft
top cleaner,
impregnation spray
Removing insects
Remove insect remains before you start to
wash the vehicle.
X
Spray insect remover on.
X Allow insect remover to work in briefly.
X Rub in gently with a soft cloth or sponge.
X Rinse with plenty of water.
X Treat the cleaned surface with hard wax.
Removing tar Remove any tar marks before washing the
vehicle.
X
Apply tar remover with a soft cloth.
X Allow tar remover to work in briefly.
X Rub in gently.
X Rinse with plenty of water.
X Treat the cleaned surface with hard wax.
Vehicle washing In the winter, thoroughly remove all traces
of road salt as soon as possible.
When
washing the vehicle underbody, do not
forget to clean the inner sides of the
wheels.
Washing your vehicle by hand
X Wash the vehicle using car shampoo
concentrate and a sponge.
X Rinse with clean water.
X Towel dry the vehicle. !
Do not wash the vehicle in direct
sunlight. The body panel surfaces and
paint finish may be damaged.
Washing your vehicle in an automatic car
wash
i When running your vehicle through an
automatic car wash, water droplets can
run

down the inside of the side windows.
Unscrew your vehicle’s antenna before
driving into an automatic car wash. X
Removing: Unscrew antenna :
counterclockwise.
X Fitting: Screw antenna : in clockwise.
Power washer G
WARNING
Do not use a round nozzle (dirt grinders) to
powerwash your vehicle, in particular the
tires.

You could otherwise damage the tires
and cause an accident. Vehicle care
153
>> Operation. Z