2016 Smart (mcc) Forfour 1.0L Petrol · AF66 GUG

The most recent DVSA MOT test for this 2016 Smart Forfour was conducted on 5 January 2026, where the vehicle achieved an initial failed result due to a nearside rear stop lamp not working, classified as a PRS (present and correct at the time of test) defect. This minor lighting issue was subsequently rectified on the same date, allowing the vehicle to pass its inspection later that day. While the car is currently roadworthy, the advisory items recorded alongside this test warrant attention. A minor exhaust gas leak was noted at the rear, which could indicate a failing joint, corroded mounting, or hairline crack in the rear silencer section, potentially worsening over time and increasing cabin noise or emissions. The second advisory regarding broken lower undertrays is of lesser mechanical significance but should be addressed to prevent exposure of engine bay components to road debris and water ingress, which could accelerate corrosion on otherwise protected surfaces. With 82,555 miles recorded on a ten-year-old vehicle, this Forfour has covered approximately 8,256 miles annually, which is broadly typical for its age and suggests consistent rather than sporadic usage. This steady accumulation of mileage means wear items such as suspension components, brake assemblies, clutch, and drivetrain mounts are likely to be in a mid-to-late stage of their service life, though not unusually so. There do not appear to be any significant gaps in usage that would suggest prolonged periods of standing, which is reassuring as long-term inactivity can lead to issues such as seized brakes, deteriorated rubber components, and drained batteries. The 2023 dangerous failure for severely worn rear tyres, however, does suggest the vehicle has seen some harder use, particularly on the driven axle, which should inform expectations regarding future tyre and suspension wear. A prospective buyer should pay particular attention to the recurring tyre wear advisories flagged in the 2025 test, where both front and rear tyres were noted as worn close to legal limits with inner edge wear observed on the front pair. Inner edge wear on the front tyres is frequently indicative of suspension issues such as worn wishbone bushes, top mounts, or weak coil springs, or alternatively, a tracking alignment that has drifted out of specification. On a test drive, listen for suspension knocks or clonks over uneven surfaces, particularly when traversing speed bumps, and pay attention to any vagueness in the steering or tendency for the vehicle to wander, which would suggest geometry concerns. Inspect the sidewalls of all four tyres for cracking or perishing given the vehicle's age, and verify the rear exhaust section for any audible ticking or hissing that might indicate the previously advisory leak has progressed. A thorough check underneath the vehicle for excessive corrosion, particularly around the rear axle and exhaust mounting points, is also strongly recommended. Beyond the recorded defects, age-appropriate inspection of the timing chain area, given the Forfour's known sensitivity in this region, would be prudent, along with verification of the 12V battery health, as batteries beyond five years of age are prone to failure regardless of mileage. The fuel breather box damage noted in 2025 should be inspected to ensure it has not worsened, as a compromised breather system can affect evaporative emissions and potentially trigger warning lights. Brake discs should be examined for lipping and corrosion, particularly if the car has been standing for any length of time, and the operation of all electrics including the rear lighting cluster should be verified. Finally, confirm the service history to ensure that age-related items such as coolant, brake fluid, and automatic transmission fluid (where applicable) have been changed at manufacturer-recommended intervals, as calendar-aged fluids degrade in performance even on low-mileage vehicles.