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Smart ForTwo Faces First Recall

Windshield could pop out

By Joe Benton
ConsumerAffairs.com

August 22, 2008
Smart USA is recalling 43 of the 2008 Smart ForTwo mini-cars because of defective paint that could lead to the windshield coming out, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

The NHTSA Web site reported that "a batch of paint sent to the company did not meet specifications" and the defective paint can apparently present a safety concern.

Federal safety regulators determined that the defective paint, which was used to coat the frame and chassis, could "delaminate" from the frame and body structure of the little Smart car.

Should the paint delaminate where the windshield and roof are attached with an adhesive, the risk of separation will increase, according to the federal safety agency.

"This could cause a crash if the roof or windshield separated from the vehicle while in motion," NHTSA warned on its Web site.

NHTSA reported that Smart dealers will repaint the affected areas when the recall begins later this month.

Owners of the 43 Smart ForTwo mini-cars involved in the recall can contact the automaker at 1-248-648-2451.

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