Feds Investigating Older Smart Fortwo Models Over Fire Risk
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has opened an investigation looking into older model Smart Fortwo cars that can catch fire.
About 43,000 cars are covered by the investigation which includes Fortwo models from the 2008 and 2009 model years. Eight fires have been reported to the agency, in every case with the fire rapidly engulfing the car. In six of the cases, smoke, the check engine light or an unusual noise preceded the fire, while two of the owners had no warning.
SEE ALSO: 2017 Smart Electric Drive Review
One owner says that they heard a loud pop from the rear engine compartment, at which time they pulled over and saw flames coming from the engine bay. “Had I not pulled off to the shoulder when I did, my story would not be coming directly from me but from my obituary,” wrote the unidentified owner.
NHTSA is now looking into both the cause of the fires and the frequency to determine if this pose a systemic safety risk. So far, Mercedes has not commented on the investigation.
Discuss this story at our Smart Forum
Stephen covers all of the day-to-day events of the industry as the News Editor at AutoGuide, along with being the AG truck expert. His truck knowledge comes from working long days on the woodlot with pickups and driving straight trucks professionally. When not at his desk, Steve can be found playing his bass or riding his snowmobile or Sea-Doo. Find Stephen on <A title="@Selmer07 on Twitter" href="http://www.twitter.com/selmer07">Twitter</A> and <A title="Stephen on Google+" href="http://plus.google.com/117833131531784822251?rel=author">Google+</A>
More by Stephen Elmer
Comments
Join the conversation
My 2008 passion for two smart car burned up today while in Greensboro & only have liability auto insurance but Fire Chief on scene at Bridford parkway googled & in 2018 there was a recall on a part called blanket cover? Near engine which is located in back of smart car. we bought our new in 2008 at mercedes benz in Winston (Jones town rd) ? But we hear that mercedes no longer sells or services them. DAIMLER created the smart cars & now only operate in China & Europe :( What can I do to compensate me now that my car is total loss burned down to the frame? A good young man was behind us & spotted our car on fire under back . He motioned to pull over shouting GET OUT YOUR CAR IS ON FIRE! wE HAD JUST NOTICED dash lights all came on & low power. Attached are photos & our phone is 336 548 1959 we were about 1.5 miles away from Northline ave where we were going to eat at k&W cafeteria for my husbands birthday . Sad birthday his car burned up. The lady fire Chief was so nice & man with her & policeman on scene . Also firefighters. Our car is now at REGIONAL AUTO CENTER 336 808 0887 AT 3902 PATTERSON STREET IN GREENSBORO NC & we will owe tow bill almost $200.00 & $26.00 a day storage fee. Police said car cant sit on side of road. So they had to have it towed. Tires blew out, windows, air bags everything burned & praise God we escaped with our lives thanks to kind people. Can you help us see what can be done. Thank you!! 9/15/2022 Mayodan Nc