No Reverse and Kudos to scp

[PerryA]

Some of the descriptions of quickly shifting from D to R and back sounded like some of what I was doing in the snow to turn around in my drive, so I wasn't sure if it was a computer thing like someone said. (Haven't been following the forums for a while, so I didn't see any long history of this issue.) I guess I was hoping the majority would say I was just too quick for the computer. I've tried the dealer twice to get my snow tires on with no luck - the snow will be gone by the time they actually connect me to service. Meanwhile, I've noticed my rear window defroster appears to have a bad segment just above the middle. I've mostly had good service, but I'll be glad when some local mechanics get up to speed on the Smart.

[schniper]

Mine did this, again, tonight. Has been doing it since June 2009 (3/08 delivery, 12/07 build) and I have had it at two dealers, at least 4 times. Each time the car would not duplicate, and the dealer would not address. Finally called smart customer service, and asked them to intervene. Should hear back from them later this week.

I recommend you call smart if you have the problem, and can not get the dealer to assist you.

[Delsmar]

I am having the same problem. Driving along ... go to park ... and NO REVERSE! It's a safety issue! I tried to do a 3 point turn and was perpendicular to the oncoming traffic and ... no reverse.

Took it Smart Center West Covina. Craig was "unable to duplicate the problem".

I have just 9K on my 08.

Third phone call to Craig and he now says it's a "known problem" and they need to replace the clutch. Outrageously, even though I'm within my 2 year warranty - clutches are only covered for 1 year. But Craig's got a call into Smart USA to see if they will cover it.

Meanwhile, I'm madly printing all the message boards with hundreds of posts about this dangerous problem!

Smart needs to learn from Toyota and issue a safety recall!

[tea2600]

I'm glad I read this post. I bought a used '08 Cab with only 4000KM on it. Last week I experienced the problem with no gear display except for Park. The car won't go anywhere. I have to restart to get it working again. I'm glad I was in a parking lot with no one around. Anyways, I called Mercedes here in Markham, Ontario. They couldnt' get a code from the diagnostics but they get info from TIPS. Got my clutch replaced under warranty. What a difference! Now it changes gear much smoother than before. Thanks everyone.