'09 Computer Flash for our '08's...

[pagja]

A couple of months ago there was alot of chatter pertaining to getting the "'09" computor flash for our 2008 models that was related to the transmission shifting pattern.... the Smart Centers were going to be able to provide this when they got the "programming" downloads.... any word on this yet?? Also, just a note to all that you might want to purchase at least one if not two extra screw in Tow Bolts to carry in your car.... yes the car does come with ONE..... however, when I pick-ed up my car I did via a roll-back (flatbed) truck.... we quickly realized that you could use the one that came with the car in the front to winch it up onto the bed, however, when we looked for rear points to chain down, the whole underside of the car is "encased" therefore, no easy attachment points. The dealership which is also a Mercedes dealer had only ONE in stock.... which I bought. The mechanic in the shop also lent me his own that he had in his toolbox, which I mailed back to him. I was NOT going to "strap" anything through the wheel openings.... no matter what, this would cause damage to the paint on the wheels. The point I am trying to make is that if you ever need a roll-back when you are out on the road, guess what the tow truck driver is going to do???? The Tow Bolt is actually a Mercedes-Benz part.... part #451-899-00-32 and cost about $25 each (of course you are going to pay the Mercedes "penalty premium" I think if someone on the Forum could get the thread and bolt hole size, maybe they can direct us all to an after market vendor at a much better price!

[Wdhitch]

There will be a nationwide campaign to update the 08's to the 09 transmission programming. I was told last week that it would be rolled out nationwide in 30 - 45 days. At that time it will be covered as a warranty item... and for those of us out of warranty it will still be covered.

Dave Schrembi will be in Orlando next Sunday and I will be asking him for clarifyication on this. I'll post his response.

[Old smart]

Originally Posted by pagja

... The Tow Bolt is actually a Mercedes-Benz part.... part #451-899-00-32 and cost about $25 each ...

The "451" in the number indicates that it is a part specific to the '07+, W451 smart. Any smart dealer, including non-MB dealers, should stock it.

[Suze]

Originally Posted by pagja

I was NOT going to "strap" anything through the wheel openings.... no matter what, this would cause damage to the paint on the wheels.

Hmmm... I guess I don't understand how they attached my smart to the flatbed when it was towed, but nothing on the wheels and no damage was done.

[smartHHO]

Yep, as in what Suze said, they towed mine with no problems right up on the bed. Guess the tow truck guy that you delt with had no friggin clue and did not want to hurt the car. They towed mine right up on the truck, front first with no tow hook used. Secured it in the back also with NO tow hooks. Car has no problems with any of the parts under the car. So I don't really see the need for 2 extra hooks in my case. I need a two, SmartUSA uses the same tow company and they seem to be doing a fine job. I even have them in my phone now incase I am out of warranty and want to use them.

[forestacademy]

Since these are almost $50 each it wouldnt be a bad idea to pick up a second one at a dealer
Smart Madness - Smart Car Parts and Accessories

[2micro4u]

Originally Posted by forestacademy

Since these are almost $50 each it wouldnt be a bad idea to pick up a second one at a dealer
Smart Madness - Smart Car Parts and Accessories

I agree great idea.

[greatfoxmusic]

I was told they started to roll out the firmware update for the 08's, then they recalled it again. My dealer is now estimating maybe 2-4 weeks more.. I can't wait because the dealer says there is a vast improvement in shifting. I want to be first in line for sure!

[doogster]

I'm due for my 1st service (10,000 miles) around April... hopefully the dealers will have it in place by then and I can get the software update... also, my lights flicker like crazy when I'm driving - I think the battery wires need looking at.

[jimvw57]

Just checked the Smart Madness price on tow hooks and they have a hook for $47. A while back I recall someone had a tow hook that folded flat but I don't remember who it was. They looked nice.