u/James_Nostack

In late November 2025 I acquired a 2014 Smart Fortwo with about 4000 miles. Previous owner was extremely attentive to maintenance.

Because I don't live in the area, I left the Smart car in an enclosed garage all winter. This may have been unwise!

When I tried to start the car in March, I received the error message, "Drive Sys. -> Engine Off" and "Do Not Tow Away."

I worried that maybe the 12V had died--it had NEVER been replaced in twelve years!--so, in June, with some difficulty, I installed a new 12V. Turns out this was not the problem--same error message, "Drive Sys. -> Engine Off." Also it seemed like every possible warning light was on (which may have been true in March too--I just didn't take a picture).

Here are some photos: