2005 Smart Roadster 0.7L Petrol · AX05 OXS

The most recent MOT, conducted on 26 January 2026 at 70,533 miles, resulted in a pass, yet the maintenance trend remains persistently stable rather than resolving. The tester flagged corrosion on both rear coil springs and both rear brake pipes, mirroring advisories present in every single test dating back to January 2023. A minor oil leak has also been a constant companion across all five tests. While the January 2023 failure for a binding nearside rear service brake was rectified ahead of the retest four days later, the underlying theme is one of chronic, low-level deterioration that has been managed rather than fully repaired. Covering roughly 3,359 miles per year, this 2005 Roadster has led a notably sedate life. The mileage progression is remarkably linear, climbing from 60,174 miles in January 2023 to 70,533 miles by January 2026, with no significant gaps or sudden spikes in the MOT record. This consistent accumulation suggests regular, gentle use rather than prolonged standing, though the extremely low annual mileage means components like brake pipes and coil springs may have suffered from atmospheric corrosion and lack of regular heat cycling rather than mechanical wear. A buyer must treat the rear underside with serious suspicion. The repeated identification of corroded rear brake pipes covered in grease suggests the corrosion may be active beneath surface contamination, posing a genuine risk of fluid loss under heavy braking. Both rear coil springs have been flagged for corrosion for at least three consecutive years; on a vehicle of this age, surface corrosion can progress to structural weakness, risking a sudden spring fracture. The slight play in the offside front track rod end and upper suspension top mount noted in January 2026 demands a physical check for clunking or vague steering, as these joints directly affect front-end stability. Beyond the advisories, the persistent minor oil leak requires under-bonnet inspection to pinpoint the source, whether that is a failing rocker cover gasket or a weeping crank seal. The damaged windscreen, noted as not affecting the driver's view since 2023, should be verified against current replacement criteria, as stone chips or cracks can suddenly propagate. Finally, the binding rear brake from early 2023, though resolved on paper, warrants a road test to confirm the handbrake and rear calipers are not sticking, as seized sliders or a collapsing flexi-hose can cause uneven pad wear and localized overheating of the rear brake discs.