The problem
Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2016 Smart Fortwo vehicles. The horizontal headlight adjustment mechanism on these vehicles may not have been properly sealed off to prevent future adjustment. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
The risk
If the headlight can be adjusted horizontally, the headlight may be adjusted outside of the designed specifications, reducing the driver's visibility and potentially blinding oncoming traffic, increasing the risk of a crash.
The fix
MBUSA will notify owners, and dealers will install the correct sealing caps to prevent the headlights from being adjusted horizontally, free of charge. The recall began September 8, 2017. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372.
Recall details
| NHTSA campaign | 17V-179 (17V179000) |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC |
| Component | Exterior lighting › Headlights |
| Report date | March 16, 2017 |
| Owners notified | September 8, 2017 |
| Vehicles affected | 2,213 |
| Initiated by | Manufacturer |
Vehicles covered
Frequently asked questions
Is the recall 17V-179 repair free?
Yes. Smart dealers will fix the problem at no cost: MBUSA will notify owners, and dealers will install the correct sealing caps to prevent the headlights from being adjusted horizontally, free of charge. The recall began September 8, 2017. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372.
How do I know if my car is included?
Not every vehicle of the listed model years is affected — the recall covers 2,213 vehicles built in a certain window. Check your 17-character VIN with our VIN recall check or at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Source: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) — owner complaints through October 20, 2026, recalls and defect investigations; fuel economy from the EPA. Complaints are unverified reports and are not proof of a defect. How we rate model years.