2008 Smart Fortwo cabrio problems
The Smart Fortwo (stylized as "smart fortwo") is a two-seater city car built by the Smart division of the Mercedes-Benz Group from 1998 to 2024. In its third generation, the Fortwo has a rear-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout and a one-box design.
The first generation was internally designated as the W450, launched at the 1998 Paris Motor Show. The second generation W451-build series was launched at the 2006 Bologna Motor Show. The third generation Fortwo (2014–) was internally designated as the C453 build series, and debuted globally on July 16, 2014, at the Tempodrom in Berlin along with a closely related four-door version, the Smart Forfour, co-developed and sharing the same platform and engines with the third-generation Renault Twingo.
Marketed in 46 countries worldwide, Fortwo production had surpassed 1.7 million units by early 2015. The brand name Smart supposedly derives from its early history as a cooperative venture between Swatch and Mercedes: Swatch Mercedes ART. The Fortwo nameplate derives from its two-person seating capacity. Until 2002, the Fortwo had been marketed as the smart City-Coupé.
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Common 2008 Smart Fortwo cabrio problems
The Smart Fortwo Cabrio 2008 has been reported to have several common problems by its owners. Here is a detailed breakdown of these issues:
- Suspension Problems: Front ball-joints are reported to wear relatively quickly in the Smart Fortwo Cabrio 2008. Additionally, strange tire-wear patterns may indicate that the car is out of alignment, which is crucial to address due to its short wheelbase.
- Electrical Failures: Some owners have reported electrical failures, such as problems with the electrical charging unit in the Smart Fortwo EQ model .
- Engine Failure: Engine failure has been reported by some Smart Fortwo owners, with potential causes including a cracked exhaust manifold and overfilling the engine with oil.
- Crazing: This refers to a condition where the car's roof becomes covered in small cracks due to wear and tear, a common issue in convertibles .
- Rear Insulation Mat Deformation: The rear insulation mat in the engine compartment of certain 2008-2009 Smart Fortwo Cabrio and Fortwo Coupe vehicles may deform, leading to a recall by Mercedes-Benz USA (MBUSA).
- Roof Shade Movement: Some owners have reported issues with the black retractable roof shade not moving back and forth.
These problems can significantly impact the reliability and overall ownership experience of the Smart Fortwo Cabrio 2008. It is essential for potential buyers to be aware of these issues and consider them when making a purchasing decision.
Is a 2008 Smart car a good car?
Edmunds says
The 2008 Smart Fortwo is a tiny, fuel-sipping city car for those whose daily driving limits them to congested downtown streets. As a second, commuting-only car, it's wonderful, but those with room for only one vehicle in the garage may want to consider a larger subcompact or compact car.
What are the issues with Smart Fortwo?
Common Problems
- Electrics (11 cases)
- Suspension, Other (1 case)
- Other (7 cases)
- Electrics, Other (1 case)
- Gearbox / clutch, Suspension (1 case)
- Brakes (2 cases)
- Engine (4 cases)
- Electrics, Engine (2 cases)
How many miles can you get out of a 2008 Smart car?
Typically, a Smart Car will survive 150,000-450,000 miles, providing an excellent ownership opportunity for buyers. The car can last for several decades with flawless maintenance, though most will get around two out of the system.
What are the weaknesses of a smart car?
Smart cars are typically only big enough to seat 2 people. This can be a real issue if you have a family of 4. Since they are not really geared towards families, this can be a decided disadvantage to owning one. Never mind the 20 trips you'd have to make to take your daughter's soccer team to practice!
2008 Smart Fortwo cabrio complaints
The NHTSA has received 0 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2008 Smart Fortwo cabrio.
You can leave your car complaint via the special form below.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2008 Smart Fortwo cabrio problems:
Cabriolet roof common issues/problems? | Smart Car of America ...
Dec 3, 2013 ... My 2008 cabrio has been washed with the normal car washing soap every couple of weeks and it seems just fine! I use it whenever the temperature ...
Expected mileage out of a smart car before major issues : r/SmartCar
Jul 15, 2022 ... I just got a 2010 Smart Fortwo with 36k miles. I used to have a 2009 passion cabriolet but I started to run into many problems including ...
Thinking of Buying One - What are Common Issues? | Smart Car of ...
Feb 17, 2020 ... Poor maintenance (or only ever using 87 octane fuel) can sometimes lead to burned valves. · 2008s and 2009s should have their engine mats ...
2008 Smart ForTwo Reliability - Consumer Reports
Get reliability information for the 2008 Smart ForTwo from Consumer Reports, which combines extensive survey data and expert technical knowledge.
2008 451 Cabrio tailgate malfunction - Club smart Car
Oct 27, 2017 ... Hello All, I have a 2008 451 Cabriolet. A common problem on this model is the tailgate will sometimes not open due to a part failure.
Other years of Smart Fortwo cabrio
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