Vehicle recall 08V390000 · August 7, 2008
2008 smart Fortwo
A single batch of paint sent to the company did not meet specifications.
Source: NHTSA data as of September 22, 2026. Last refreshed Sep 23, 2026, 2:43 AM UTC.
- Summary
- Smart USA is recalling 43 my 2008 fortwo 451 vehicles. A single batch of paint sent to the company did not meet specifications. A re-work was done in the plant using different formulations of painting materials. After the re-work was completed, it was determined that the combination of materials used to repaint the frame and chassis could lead to de lamination of the paint materials from the body and frame structures.
- Consequence
- Such de laminating can take place in the area of the body where the windshield and roof have been affixed with adhesive, which could affect the adhesion of those components to the vehicle body, increasing the risk of separation. This could cause a crash if the roof or windshield separated from the vehicle while in motion.
- Remedy
- Dealers will repaint the affected areas to meet specifications. The recall began on August 18, 2008. Owners may contact smart USA at 1-248-648-2451.
- Notes
- Smart USA recall NO.0808-001.CUSTOMERS may also contact the national highway traffic safety administration's vehicle safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to http://www.safercar.gov.
Recall details
- NHTSA campaign
- 08V390000
- Reported to NHTSA
- August 7, 2008
- Filed by
- SMART USA DISTRIBUTOR LLC
- Manufacturer campaign
- 0808-001
- Owner notification
- October 30, 2008
- Vehicles potentially affected
- 43
- Initiated by
- the manufacturer
- Components
- Structure › Frame and members
Vehicles covered
As listed by NHTSA. A recall usually covers only some vehicles of each model and year, often a production date range.
- smart Fortwo (2008): 2008
Has your smart been repaired?
Recalls here come from NHTSA’s records for the model and year. Not every vehicle of a model is included in every recall, and this site can’t see whether a repair has been done. Only a VIN lookup can tell you that.
NHTSA’s VIN search doesn’t show recalls that were already repaired, recalls more than 15 years old, or some small manufacturers’ recalls. A smart dealer can also check your VIN. Recall repairs are free.