Smart is investigating a potentially serious safety issue affecting the Smart #1 after testing revealed a rear seatbelt fault that could allow one of the rear seatbelts to become unfastened during sudden manoeuvres.
The manufacturer has confirmed it is investigating the problem, with a vehicle recall now looking increasingly likely.
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What is the Smart #1 seatbelt fault?
The issue was identified during high-speed avoidance testing, where three passengers were seated across the rear bench.
During rapid directional changes, it was found that the centre passenger’s seatbelt buckle could press against one of the outer seatbelt buckles.
In certain circumstances, this pressure was enough to release the outer passenger’s seatbelt, potentially leaving them unrestrained during an emergency manoeuvre.
The fault has raised understandable concerns about rear passenger safety.
Smart is investigating the issue
Smart has acknowledged the findings and confirmed that it is working with its engineering teams to investigate the cause.
The company has stated that it is treating the matter seriously and will provide further information once its investigation has been completed.
Although no official recall has been announced at the time of writing, industry experts expect one to follow if the issue is confirmed across production vehicles.
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Should Smart #1 owners be concerned?
Owners should not panic, but they should remain aware of the situation until further guidance is issued.
If you own a Smart #1, it is sensible to:
- Monitor official communications from Smart.
- Check whether your vehicle becomes subject to a recall.
- Follow any safety advice issued by the manufacturer.
- Avoid carrying three passengers across the rear seats until a permanent fix is available, if advised by Smart.
Manufacturers routinely investigate safety concerns, and recalls are a normal part of maintaining vehicle safety standards.
Similar seatbelt issue has happened before
This is not the first time a rear seatbelt design has required manufacturer intervention.
A similar problem affected several models within the Volkswagen Group in 2018, where movement of the centre seatbelt buckle could also cause an adjacent rear seatbelt to release under specific conditions.
Following that discovery, affected vehicles were recalled and modified with redesigned seatbelt components.
This demonstrates how manufacturers can successfully resolve these issues once identified.
What happens if a recall is announced?
If Smart launches an official recall, owners will usually be contacted directly by the manufacturer or their local dealer.
Vehicle recalls are carried out free of charge and typically involve:
- Inspection of the affected components.
- Replacement or redesign of faulty parts.
- Software updates where required.
- Safety checks before returning the vehicle.
Owners can also check the Government’s vehicle recall database or contact a Smart retailer if they are unsure whether their vehicle is affected.
Final thoughts
Although the investigation is still ongoing, Smart appears to be taking the reported seatbelt issue seriously.
If a recall is confirmed, affected owners should arrange the repair as soon as possible to ensure the vehicle continues to meet expected safety standards.
For now, staying informed and following any guidance issued by Smart is the best course of action.
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