u/markcorrigan33

My 2009 Smart Fortwo 451 mhd was parked outside in direct sun for over a month while I was abroad.

Since returning:

First 2 days: Engine started normally, but I couldn't shift from N into D or R. N would stay/flashing.
I left the windows open overnight to let the car cool down as it was quite hot inside.
Next day: Everything suddenly worked normally again. D/R selected and the car drove normally.
I drove around the block to test it and hopefully recharge the battery.
After ~10 minutes: The car suddenly lost all propulsion. Display showed the selected gear, but pressing the accelerator did nothing. I had to push it into a parking space.
Next morning: Same problem initially... engine started, D/R selected normally, but the car wouldn’t move. Called roadside assistance. While waiting I tried again several times – and suddenly it worked again. I was able to drive it home.

The little guy is now parked safely at home, but I don’t want to drive it again until I understand what’s going on.

Any ideas what could cause this combination of gear-selection problems and complete loss of propulsion? Is it even battery related?

The fact that it seems to work again after cooling down makes me wonder about a temperature-related issue.

Any clues would be greatly appreciated, thanks!!