There are no safety recalls for the 2009 Smart Fortwo Cabrio, but owners have filed 11 complaints with NHTSA.
2009 Smart Fortwo Cabrio problems reported by owners
| Problem area | Reports | |
|---|
| Electrical System | 6 | |
| Power Train | 3 | |
| Visibility | 2 | |
| Wheels | 1 | |
| Exterior Lighting | 1 | |
| Engine and Engine Cooling | 1 | |
Most reported parts
- Visibility › Defroster/Defogger/Hvac System — 1
Typical mileage at the time of the problem: 25,780 miles (median of owner reports).
Problems that are not covered by a recall are paid repairs; labor rates follow local mechanic pay — see what auto mechanics earn in each state.
Recent 2009 Smart Fortwo Cabrio complaints
Owner reports filed with NHTSA, as written (personal details removed). Complaints are not verified by NHTSA.
Power Train · at 55,000 miles · reported Feb 11, 2021
Reverse doesn't engage when shifting the gear to r, either I have to turn off the vehicle or go the manual shifts then eventually the reverse gear will engage. Sometimes it takes minutes to engage and it becomes problematic when conducting in traffic and it is very hazardous.
Engine and Engine Cooling · reported May 15, 2020
The contact owns a 2009 smart fortwo cabrio. The contact received notification of NHTSA campaign number: 18v273000 (Engine and engine cooling) however, the part to do the repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The dealer was not contacted. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.
Electrical System · at 95,000 miles · reported May 23, 2014
Had been driving on highway for approximately 25 miles when a strong odor of electrical wiring burning became evident. Windshield wipers, horn, check engine light, and dash lights began to malfunction. Pulled car to side of road and noticed smoke coming from dash. Driver exited the vehicle and then flames became evident from dash and front area of car. Car burned completely, total loss.
Electrical System · reported Apr 2, 2014
Had issues 5 or 6 times with ignition turning off when I'm driving along and came close to getting killed! Have also had issues with transmission not going into gears right, always have to look to be sure I'm in right spot on shifter, because it doesn't do anything sometimes when you shift into drive or reverse.also, constantly buying headlights! Noticed on hills these cars have a tendency to roll when you're in park!
Power Train · at 21,850 miles · reported Mar 4, 2013
(1) power train issue; no rhyme or reason the vehicle will not shift into gear. After some time, I discovered that you must shut the vehicle off and re-start to shift the transmission into gear. This seems to be happening more often over the past two months! I have had this happen after pulling out of a parking spot and trying to place the vehicle into r or d, I have tried placing the car into n and back to either r or d with no luck, again had to re-start while blocking traffic! This should not be happening on a newer vehicle. (2) electrical issue; no rhyme or reason the heater/AC blower will…
Frequently asked questions
Does the 2009 Smart Fortwo Cabrio have any recalls?
No. NHTSA has no safety recalls for the 2009 Smart Fortwo Cabrio as of this update. Check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls for the latest status.
What is the most common problem with the 2009 Smart Fortwo Cabrio?
Owners report electrical system problems most often (6 reports), followed by power train (3). The typical mileage when problems were reported is about 25,780 miles.
Are Smart recall repairs free?
Yes. Safety recall repairs are free at authorized Smart dealers, whether you are the first owner or bought the car used.