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Visibility (wipers, defrost, mirrors)Part report

2008 Smart Fortwo Visibility (wipers, defrost, mirrors) Problems

Complaints
3about this part
Share
2%of 140 total for the year
Median mileage
17,500miles
Trend
Not enough dataFewer than 15 complaints, too few for a reliable trend.

NHTSA recorded 3 complaints about the visibility of the 2008 Smart Fortwo, 2% of the 140 complaints for this model year. Where a mileage was given, the median is 17,500 miles.

Fewer than 15 complaints name this part, so treat the figures as a rough indication only.

Example complaints

Selected from NHTSA records; personal details are removed. They are consumer reports, not findings.

“We have been driving my wife's 2008 Smart-for-two since approximately 2-month after purchase without rear-view mirror. The mounting (metal) tab that was glued to the inside of the windshield had came loose and we have been told by the dealer that they are trying to find out from the factory in what to do. Apparently this is a very common problem on the Smart-for-two. Is there a DOT requirement to have rear-view mirror on all motor vehicle operating on us highways?”

NHTSA complaint #10246966, filed 2008-10, 1,200 miles

“The plastic composite material that makes up the clear roof panel on Smart Fortwo passion models has been known to craze or haze over with fine marks, that catch and reflect the sun. This makes the roof's material appear to wear down due to the sun's uv light. Owners that park their cars in garages have fewer symptoms, and adversely, those who always keep their car outside and exposed to sun see exasperated issues. There have been reports of the material warping due to wear and experiencing leaks around the edges. …”

NHTSA complaint #10489288, filed 2012-12, 17,500 miles

Related service bulletins

Visibility (wipers, defrost, mirrors): other model years

YearComplaintsShare of year
2017114%
2016210%
201328%
201116%
2010117%
200911%
200832%

Other parts of the 2008 Smart Fortwo

Engine
33 complaints
Transmission and drivetrain
32 complaints
Electrical system
20 complaints
Other or unknown
18 complaints
Engine cooling
12 complaints
Fuel system
11 complaints
Seat belts
10 complaints
Brakes
9 complaints
Body and structure
8 complaints
Air bags
5 complaints
Steering
4 complaints
Latches, locks and linkages
3 complaints

← All problems reported for the 2008 Smart Fortwo

About this data. Data from NHTSA (ODI) complaints, recalls, TSBs and investigations, updated Oct 30, 2026. Complaints are unverified consumer reports and may be duplicated or inaccurate.

To check a specific vehicle for open recalls, use its VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. Methodology