2009 Smart Fortwo recalls
Reported Apr 27, 2018 · 42,781 vehicles affected · Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC.
Problem: Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC. (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2008-2009 smart fortwo cabrio and fortwo coupe vehicles. The rear insulation mat in the engine compartment may deform, deteriorate, and loosen over time, allowing the mat to contact hot exhaust system components.
Risk: If the mat contacts hot exhaust system components, it can increase the risk of a fire.
Fix: MBUSA will notify owners, and dealers will replace the rear insulation mat with an improved one, free of charge. The recall began in July 2018. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2018060010.
2009 Smart Fortwo problems reported by owners
| Problem area | Reports | |
|---|
| Power Train | 27 | |
| Engine | 19 | |
| Unknown or Other | 18 | |
| Electrical System | 14 | |
| Structure | 11 | |
| Engine and Engine Cooling | 9 | |
| Fuel/Propulsion System | 8 | |
| Air Bags | 5 | |
| Wheels | 5 | |
| Tires | 5 | |
| Seat Belts | 5 | |
| Service Brakes, Hydraulic | 2 | |
Most reported parts
- Structure › Body — 8
- Structure › Body › Roof and Pillars — 2
- Equipment › Appliance › Air Conditioner — 1
- Latches/Locks/Linkages › Hood › Latch — 1
- Seat Belts › Front › Retractor — 1
- Structure › Body › Tailgate — 1
- Tires › Pressure Monitoring and Regulating Systems — 1
Typical mileage at the time of the problem: 38,500 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 complaints
Owner reports filed with NHTSA, as written (personal details removed). Complaints are not verified by NHTSA.
Power Train · at 74,254 miles · reported Aug 22, 2025
The contact owns a 2009 Smart Fortwo. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the vehicle suddenly lost motive power. The vehicle was turned off, the contact waited, and then restarted the vehicle, and the vehicle operated as needed. The failure had occurred several times while driving. The contact stated that while depressing the brake pedal, the vehicle failed to brake immediately and drifted to the left. The brake pedal was depressed to the floorboard for the vehicle to come to a stop. The ABS warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, who diagnosed…
Engine and Engine Cooling · reported Sep 5, 2024
The contact owns a 2009 Mercedes-Benz Smart ForTwo. 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 had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The manufacturer scheduled an appointment at the dealer; however, the dealer contacted the contact and decline to honor the recall repair appointment. The contact contacted two dealers and was informed that they do not perform repair on…
Engine and Engine Cooling · reported Aug 29, 2024
The contact owns a 2009 Mercedes-Benz 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 local dealer and several unknown dealers were contacted and informed the contact that they did not service Smart vehicles. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.
Unknown or Other · reported Aug 3, 2024
When starting the car, the transmission will not respond to the shifter being put into any gear. A computer diagnostic says it is a communications issue. Mercedes, who sold the car to me new, refuses to do any repair work as they have discontinued Smart sales in the US. If the communications for the transmission fails during operation, this will be very dangerous. There are numerous reports on the internet of similar issues and owners trying to repair this themselves. Mercedes needs to be forced to repair what they have sold and represented. If this is a software update issue, who has the…
Tires · at 37,000 miles · reported May 2, 2023
The contact owns a 2009 Smart ForTwo. The contact stated that on multiple occasions when the vehicle was parked and the gear shifter was shifted, the transmission would only shift into neutral. Additionally, the contact stated that the vehicle failed to respond when the accelerator pedal was depressed. Additionally, the tire pressure warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic but was not diagnosed or repaired. The contact also received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 18V273000 (Engine and Engine Cooling) however, parts to do the recall repair was…
Frequently asked questions
Does the 2009 Smart Fortwo have any recalls?
Yes — NHTSA lists 1 recall for the 2009 Smart Fortwo: 18V-273 (engine and engine cooling). Not every vehicle is affected, so check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
What is the most common problem with the 2009 Smart Fortwo?
Owners report power train problems most often (27 reports), followed by engine (19). The typical mileage when problems were reported is about 38,500 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.