2009 Smart Fortwo
Mileage
165,184
Service Date
7/27/2026
Services Performed
- Repaired battery cables and related wiring, then reinstalled the Body Control Module (BCM) and relays. Continued diagnosis of the no-start condition and found no start signal present at the S-terminal of the starter. Further testing showed the BCM is not recognizing the transmission in the Park position, preventing it from sending a starter engagement signal. Conclusion & Recommendation: Additional diagnosis is required. Need to access the Transmission Control Module (TCM) under the driver's seat and verify whether it is sending commands to the shift control motors. At this time, it appears the shift control motors are not allowing the transmission to shift into the proper position, which is preventing the vehicle from starting. Further testing is needed to determine if the fault lies in the TCM, shift motors, wiring, or transmission control system. tested system to tcm and found circuits to tcm and from tcm are good.
- Perform a comprehensive multi-point vehicle inspection, including evaluation of engine, transmission, brakes, suspension, steering, tires, cooling system, battery, belts, hoses, lights, fluids, and filters. Document all findings and provide a detailed report with any immediate safety concerns, maintenance needs, or recommended repairs.
- Performed testing of the transmission control system and found the shift position sensor inside the shift actuator assembly is sending an implausible signal to the TCM. Due to the incorrect position feedback, the Transmission Control Module (TCM) cannot accurately determine what gear the transmission is in, resulting in improper transmission operation. Recommendation: Recommend replacing the gear shift selector actuator motor, which includes the faulty shift position sensor, and retesting transmission operation to verify proper gear recognition and system function.
- Replaced the gearshift control assembly, cleared all fault codes, and attempted to perform the required transmission relearn procedure. The relearn would not complete. Performed further diagnosis and retrieved a fault code for the clutch fork actuator. Removed the clutch fork actuator assembly and found the actuator mechanically seized, with the drive gear twisted off the motor shaft. Inspected the clutch fork separately and confirmed it moves freely and operates correctly, indicating the clutch mechanism is not binding. Conclusion & Recommendation: The clutch fork actuator has failed internally, preventing the transmission relearn from completing. Recommended Repair: Replace the clutch fork actuator assembly, then perform the transmission relearn procedure and retest system operation to verify proper shifting and clutch actuator function.
- INSTALLED CUSTOMER SUPPLIED STARTER
- Replaced the clutch fork actuator and performed the relearn procedure for both actuators. The relearn procedures completed successfully. After diagnosis, the system correctly recognized the transmission in Park and was sending the proper start signal to the starter. Determined the starter had failed. Replaced the starter, and the vehicle now starts and runs properly. The vehicle should be driven to allow the transmission to complete its adaptive shift relearn. The engine currently runs slightly rough and would benefit from a tune-up and fresh fuel. Inside of vehicle need put back together was already torn apart
Fernando F. gave our service a 5 star review on 7/27/2026
