Keeping your 2016 Smart FORTWO running smoothly starts with the right lubricants. This compact vehicle features a small-displacement turbocharged engine that places specific demands on its oil, coolant, and brake systems. Using the correct fluids ensures optimal performance, protects internal components, and extends the service life of your vehicle. Whether you are navigating city streets or tackling highway drives, the right AMSOIL synthetic products provide superior protection against wear, heat, and corrosion.
Recommended AMSOIL Products
- AMSOIL 5W-40 FS 100% Synthetic European Motor Oil – A specialized formula designed for the unique demands of European gasoline and hybrid vehicles, featuring precise blends of synthetic base oils and premium additives.
- AMSOIL 0W-40 FS 100% Synthetic European Motor Oil – Engineered for extreme cold temperatures, this oil ensures quick flow and protection while maintaining stability at high operating temperatures.
- AMSOIL Passenger Car & Light Truck Antifreeze & Coolant – A pre-mixed, phosphate- and silicate-free formula that offers protection up to 150,000 miles, safeguarding all cooling system metals and gaskets.
- AMSOIL Propylene Glycol Antifreeze and Engine Coolant – A concentrated option that requires mixing, providing exceptional protection against corrosion and erosion in passenger cars and light trucks.
- AMSOIL DOT 3 and DOT 4 100% Synthetic Brake Fluid – Delivers excellent ABS and traction-control responsiveness with a stable viscosity across a wide temperature range, meeting MB Sheet 331.0 specifications.
Proper lubrication is critical for the longevity of the Smart FORTWO’s engine. The 0.9L 3-cylinder engine with code 281.910 1 Turbo is a high-efficiency powerplant, but it relies heavily on high-quality oil to handle the stress of the turbocharger. AMSOIL European Motor Oils are specifically formulated to meet the stringent requirements of European automakers. These oils maintain their viscosity better than conventional oils under extreme heat and flow more freely in freezing conditions. This balance ensures that critical engine parts are always coated, reducing friction and wear while allowing for extended oil change intervals.
The cooling system is another vital component that requires attention. With a capacity of 11.1 quarts, the Smart FORTWO needs a coolant that can handle the thermal cycles of urban driving without degrading. The AMSOIL Passenger Car & Light Truck Antifreeze & Coolant is a poly-organic acid formulation that exceeds original equipment manufacturer requirements. It is designed to protect against corrosion on all cooling system metals, gaskets, and hoses. For those who prefer a concentrated solution, the AMSOIL Propylene Glycol Antifreeze provides robust protection against metallic corrosion and erosion, ensuring the engine stays within optimal temperature ranges even during heavy usage.
AMSOIL DOT 3 and DOT 4 100% Synthetic Brake Fluid is often overlooked but is essential for safety and performance. The Smart FORTWO requires a brake fluid that meets the MB Sheet 331.0 standard, which allows for DOT 4 plus compatibility. This fluid is an excellent choice for this application. It offers superior performance in anti-lock braking systems and traction control due to its stable viscosity. This fluid prevents the boiling points from dropping under repeated hard braking, ensuring consistent pedal feel and reliable stopping power in all weather conditions.
Maintenance Specifications and Fluid Capacities
When performing maintenance on your 2016 Smart FORTWO, it is important to adhere to specific capacities and torque settings to ensure proper operation. For the engine oil, the recommended capacity is 4.5 quarts when including a filter change. After refilling, always check the oil level to ensure it is correct. The oil drain plug should be torqued to 37 ft/lbs to prevent leaks and ensure a secure seal. The vehicle supports a variety of viscosity grades depending on the temperature; for most climates, 0W-30, 0W-40, 5W-30, or 5W-40 are suitable, while heavier grades like 10W-60 can be used in warmer conditions above -20°C.
The cooling system requires a significant volume of fluid, with a total capacity of 11.1 quarts. Ensuring this is filled with the correct coolant prevents overheating and system damage. While there are no specific AMSOIL recommendations for the automatic or manual transmission fluids listed in the standard fitment guide for this model, maintaining the factory fill levels with high-quality fluids is always a good practice. The transmission and differential do not have specific recommended AMSOIL products in the primary guide, but the engine and cooling system are fully covered by the synthetic options mentioned above.
Seasonal storage and vehicle care are also part of a complete maintenance routine. If you plan to store the vehicle or run it under severe conditions, additives can play a role. The AMSOIL P.i.® Performance Improver Gasoline Additive can help restore horsepower and clean fuel injectors, which is beneficial for GDI engines. Additionally, for long-term storage, the AMSOIL Engine Fogging Oil helps protect internal components from rust and corrosion. The AMSOIL Gasoline Stabilizer is another valuable addition to keep fuel fresh for up to 12 months, protecting against varnish and gum buildup.
About the 2016 Smart FORTWO
The 2016 Smart FORTWO is a testament to urban mobility and engineering efficiency. Born from a collaboration between the Mercedes-Benz Group and Swatch, the brand originally emerged as a project called “Micro” to produce a compact city car. Over the years, it has evolved into a highly popular vehicle known for its compact footprint and agile handling. The 2016 model year features the 0.9L 3-cylinder turbocharged engine, which replaced earlier naturally aspirated versions to provide better power and torque without sacrificing the vehicle’s legendary fuel economy.
This vehicle is distinctively designed for city driving, offering a turning radius that is remarkably small, allowing drivers to navigate tight streets and fit into parking spaces that larger vehicles simply cannot access. Despite its diminutive size, the FORTWO packs a punch, delivering sufficient horsepower for highway merging and passing. The interior, while compact, is surprisingly functional, often featuring a unique seating arrangement where the driver and passenger face each other. This design, combined with the vehicle’s lightweight construction, contributes to a driving experience that is both fun and economical. The FORTWO has carved out a niche in the market as a practical yet stylish solution for commuters who prioritize maneuverability and efficiency over sheer size or towing capacity. Its reputation for reliability and low running costs has made it a favorite among city dwellers worldwide.