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What’s the Problem?
According to a recall notice by the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), a welded joint within the high-voltage battery main cell conductors on affected Mercedes Smart Fortwo cars may detach and interrupt electrical contact, resulting in sudden battery failure.
The detached weld may also cause an electrical arc which can ignite inside the battery
cells, NHTSA said. If the high-voltage battery fails, the vehicle may stall, increasing the risk of a crash. An electrical arc inside the battery could also increase the risk of a fire.
Mercedes-Benz is notifying owners and dealers will replace the high-voltage battery, free of charge. This recall began on April 24, 2020.
The Most Common Problems with Smart Cars
Whether you love them or hate them, there’s no denying that Smart cars are a staple on American highways today. These vehicles are the result of a collaboration between the watch manufacturer Swatch and Mercedes-Benz, creating the ‘Swatch Mercedes ART’ – or Smart vehicles.
While smart cars are known for their unique style, they have also built a reputation for being unreliable. Here are a few reasons why.
- Unreliable Engines – One of the most commonly reported issues with Smart cars is that the engine can be unreliable. Owners report issues as early as 22,000 miles, though this seems to be more of an issue with older models.
- Transmission Issues – Since its inception, the Smart Fortwo has been plagued by issues relating to the transmission, particularly the manual gearbox. Issues with shifting gears and poor performance are commonly reported, typically in the 5-speed automated manual transmission. Drivers have also complained about a lazy clutch and unresponsive acceleration.
- Efficiency – Believe it or not, the Smart Fortwo also suffers from poor fuel consumption and range, meaning they are far from the most efficient city cars around. It’s been reported that the 1-liter engine only seemed to get around 38-39 mpg on freeways.
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FAQs
Will joining the Mercedes Smart Fortwo lawsuit affect my vehicle warranty?
Typically, joining a lawsuit should not impact your vehicle’s warranty. It’s advisable to review your warranty terms and consult with a legal expert to understand all implications.
Can I claim additional damages in the Mercedes Smart Fortwo lawsuit if I’ve experienced other related issues?
Yes, you may be able to claim additional damages if you’ve encountered other issues related to the defect, such as lost wages or medical expenses. Legal counsel can help assess the full scope of your claims.
How can I verify that the defect has been fully repaired on my Mercedes Smart Fortwo?
You can request documentation from the dealership or Mercedes-Benz confirming that the repairs have been completed. Ensuring the defect is fully resolved is crucial for your safety and vehicle value.
See all related product liability lawsuits our attorneys covered so far.
Do I Have a Mercedes Smart Fortwo Lawsuit?
The Product Liability Litigation Group at Schmidt & Clark, LLP law firm is an experienced team of trial lawyers that focus on the representation of plaintiffs in Mercedes Smart Fortwo lawsuits. We are handling individual litigation nationwide and currently accepting new injury and death cases in all 50 states.
If you or a loved one has been injured by a recalled Mercedes Smart Fortwo, you should contact our law firm immediately. You may be entitled to a settlement by filing a suit and we can help.
To contact us for a free review of your potential case, please fill out the form below or call us toll free 24 hrs/day by dialing: