SMART FORTWO COUPE2012 · 1.0L PETROL

The vehicle is currently roadworthy following a pass in early February 2026 at 48,398 miles. However, the maintenance trend shows a recurring issue with the rear braking system. While the most recent test cleared all defects, the immediate failure just four days prior revealed imbalanced brakes across the axle, an inoperative offside parking brake, and a binding nearside rear service brake. These faults date back to February 2024, indicating a persistent mechanical weakness in the braking mechanism or calipers rather than an isolated failure. The mileage profile is exceptionally low for a 14-year-old vehicle, averaging approximately 3,457 miles per year. The data shows consistent, low-interval usage with 1,225 miles covered between February 2024 and February 2025, and another 1,111 miles recorded before the February 2026 tests. While low annual mileage generally reduces wear on the drivetrain and engine, it often leads to accelerated corrosion on brake components and seized caliper sliders, which likely explains the recurring binding issues noted in the MOT history. A buyer must conduct a thorough inspection of the rear brake assembly to ensure the recent repairs were fully rectified. The tester should check the parking brake cable tension and visually inspect the rear calipers for signs of excessive corrosion or uneven wear. Given the vehicle's age and low usage, a close look at structural rust on the chassis and perished rubber suspension bushes is also necessary, as these components can degrade over time even when rarely driven. The previously noted nail in the tyre from 2025 suggests basic consumable maintenance, but the recurring brake faults remain the primary technical concern.