2003 Smart (mcc) Roadster 0.7L Petrol · AY03 EXB

The SMART Roadster has maintained a consistent MOT pass record with no defects recorded across all five tests, including the most recent examination on 2025-12-23 at 68,457 miles. This suggests the vehicle has not experienced any major mechanical or structural failures during the testing period. The absence of advisories or failings indicates the tester did not identify any immediate safety concerns at the time of inspection, though this does not preclude hidden issues such as internal suspension wear, corrosion, or gradual degradation of components not routinely checked in an MOT. The most recent test was conducted just five months ago, which is well within the standard 12-month MOT validity window, ensuring the vehicle has been legally roadworthy for the majority of its current registration period. The recorded mileage of 68,457 miles over approximately 23 years—averaging around 2,976 miles annually—is unusually low for a vehicle of this age and model. The gap between the 2022 and 2023 tests, where mileage jumped from 51,196 to 53,675 miles in just over a year, suggests either a period of inactivity followed by renewed use or an inaccurate odometer reading. The subsequent steady accumulation of roughly 2,000 miles per year between 2023 and 2025 does not indicate aggressive driving, which could have accelerated wear on suspension bushes, coil springs, or brake components. However, prolonged low mileage may also imply the vehicle has spent extended periods stationary, potentially accelerating corrosion in critical areas such as wheel arches, subframes, and underbody panels. Given the lack of MOT-reported issues, a buyer should prioritise an independent inspection of high-wear components not routinely tested, such as the suspension bushes (particularly rear), coil springs for fatigue cracks, and brake calipers for binding or excessive corrosion. The absence of advisories does not rule out gradual deterioration in the steering rack, power steering hoses, or exhaust system—common failure points in this model. Rust penetration in the subframe, sills, or wheel arches should be thoroughly checked, as low mileage does not negate environmental degradation over time. Additionally, the tyres, despite not being flagged in MOTs, may require scrutiny for uneven wear patterns or excessive tread depth, as failing twice on tread in previous tests (if any) would have been recorded. The battery and electrical connections, often overlooked in older vehicles, should also be inspected for corrosion or failing terminals, as these can lead to intermittent electrical faults.