2008 Smart Fortwo Recalls, Problems & Safety Rating

2008 Smart Fortwo recalls

Most common 2008 Smart Fortwo problems

Problem areas named in the 140 complaints owners filed with NHTSA.

Problem area	Reports
Engine	33
Power Train	32
Electrical System	20
Unknown Or Other	17
Engine And Engine Cooling	13
Seat Belts	11
Structure	8
Fuel/Propulsion System	8
Service Brakes	6
Air Bags	5

What owners report

2026-08-20, Electrical System
I was entering an intersection and missed judged the traffic light and was a bit to far forward, so I tried to reverse but the car would not shift to reverse. I have had an actuator replaced but the problem still happens intermittently where it will not shift to reverse. I have logged into smart car forums online and it seems to be an ongoing problem with many smart cars. I have not had the manufacturer look at it yet. Many on the forum said in some cases it is a software issue. But it is dangerous.

2025-05-15, Fuel/Propulsion System
The 90 degree fittings(integral to the fuel pump) on top of the fuel pump cracked and leaks gasoline leading to a potential fire that could cause bodily injury for the driver and passenger. It is noticeable because of strong gasoline smell inside and outside of the car. There are many of the same complaints from Smart Car drivers in various forum.

2024-09-25, Engine And Engine Cooling
The contact owns a 2008 Smart Fortwo. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 18V273000(Engine and Engine Cooling) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the contact noticed there was smoke coming from the engine. The contact stated that the vehicle had caught on fire. No warning lights illuminated. The contact exited the vehicle quickly and entered a mechanic shop and a mechanic put on safety gloves to extinguish the fire with a fire hose. The fire was able to be extinguished by the me

2024-09-08, Engine
Mercedes-Benz USA has no service centers on Long Island,NY that might fix the recall issue. For a time they were the only Smart Car service provider after Smart Car dealers were abandoned. MB USA currently will not do the recall and offers no reasonable alternative. The issue is potential engine compartment/total vehicle fire due to compartment insulation failure. Offers no suggestions for doing the recall service except one MB dealer in CT at one time might be able; if I research them.

2024-09-06, Engine And Engine Cooling
The contact's mother owns a 2008 Smart ForTwo. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 18V273000 (Engine and Engine Cooling). The local dealer was notified of the recall but informed the contact that the recall could not be serviced at their location. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and referred the contact to a dealer that was 180 miles away. The manufacturer was informed that the owner of the vehicle was elderly and would not be able to travel that far a distance yet was offered no additional assistance. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts d

2008 Smart Fortwo questions

Does the 2008 Smart Fortwo have any recalls?

Yes. NHTSA lists 2 safety recalls for the 2008 Smart Fortwo: Engine insulation mat can contact hot exhaust, raising fire risk; Structure:Frame And Members. Recall repairs are normally free at an authorized dealer.

What are the most common problems with the 2008 Smart Fortwo?

Based on 140 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the most-reported problem areas are Engine (33), Power Train (32), Electrical System (20).

How do I check if a recall on my 2008 Smart Fortwo has been fixed?

Enter your 17-character VIN in our VIN recall check. It shows open recalls that have not been repaired on your specific vehicle. Recall repairs are normally free at an authorized dealer.