2009 Smart (mcc) Fortwo Coupe 1.0L Petrol · AV58 LMJ

Persistent suspension wear and recurring minor glass damage define the mechanical profile of this Smart Fortwo, which has maintained a consistent pass rate over the last eight years of testing. While the vehicle successfully passed its most recent MOT on 23 February 2026, the history shows a emerging trend of component degradation, specifically regarding the front suspension geometry. The presence of a current advisory for play in the offside front lower suspension arm ball joint, combined with intermittent reports of windscreen damage, suggests that the vehicle is now entering a phase where the chassis and visibility components require more frequent oversight to maintain roadworthiness. Accumulating 103,172 miles over seventeen years results in an average annual usage of approximately 6,069 miles, a figure that remains steady and consistent with typical urban or short-commute patterns for this model. The lack of significant gaps in the testing history indicates that the vehicle has remained in regular operation rather than experiencing prolonged periods of storage. This usage profile suggests that while the drivetrain has been kept active, the suspension and steering components have been subjected to constant, repetitive stress typical of city driving, which aligns with the wear identified in the most recent inspection. Prospective buyers should prioritise a physical inspection of the offside front lower suspension arm ball joint during the test drive. Listen intently for any metallic knocking or clicking sounds originating from the front wheel arches when navigating over speed bumps, potholes, or uneven road surfaces. Additionally, assess the steering for any vagueness or lack of precision when cornering, as play in the ball joint can often lead to uneven tyre wear or a wandering sensation at the steering wheel. Given that the vehicle previously required attention for tyre wear on both front edges in 2022, ensure that the current tyres show an even tread depth across the entire width of the contact patch. Beyond the suspension, the recurring minor windscreen damage noted in both 2024 and 2026 warrants a close inspection of the glass for any chips or cracks that may have expanded or could compromise structural integrity under temperature fluctuations. While the lighting system was flagged for an inoperative rear registration plate lamp in the latest test, verify that all exterior bulbs, including indicators and brake lights, are fully functional. Because the vehicle has reached six figures in mileage, pay close attention to the transmission response during gear changes, as the automated manual system in this model can exhibit increased clutch wear or actuator sluggishness as the odometer climbs.