2009 Smart Fortwo 0.8L Diesel · FG59 XVL

The 2009 SMART Fortwo presents a mixed but ultimately stable roadworthiness profile in its most recent MOT history, with the July 2025 test at 107,554 miles showing no defects—a positive sign after a period of intermittent issues. The November 2023 failure, however, reveals a pattern of deferred maintenance rather than progressive mechanical deterioration. The engine malfunction indicator (MIL) was the primary reason for failure, alongside recurring tyre damage, suggesting either inconsistent servicing or neglect of basic checks. That the vehicle passed cleanly just nine months later implies the MIL issue was resolved, though without further details, it’s impossible to confirm whether this was a minor sensor fault or a more serious emissions/engine management problem. The presence of general age-related corrosion beneath the vehicle in 2023 is unsurprising for a 17-year-old car, but its absence from the 2025 test may indicate either surface treatment or, more likely, a superficial inspection by the tester. Mileage accumulation has been steady and unremarkable, averaging around 6,327 miles per year—a rate that aligns with typical light-to-moderate usage for its age. The gaps between tests are slightly irregular, with nearly a year between the 2023 failure and the 2025 pass, though this is not unusual for a privately owned vehicle. The mileage jumps—from 97,889 in September 2021 to 100,273 by November 2023—suggest the car was driven consistently without prolonged storage, which would have been a red flag for hidden issues like seized components or degraded fluids. The lack of rapid mileage increases also reduces concerns over accelerated wear in suspension or drivetrain components. For a prospective buyer, the most critical areas to scrutinise in person are the tyres and underbody corrosion. The repeated tyre failures—nearside rear in 2023, both fronts in 2021—point to either aggressive driving, poor wheel alignment, or simply a history of neglect. Inspect all four tyres for uneven wear, bulging sidewalls, or internal cracking, as these indicate potential alignment issues or suspension wear. The underside corrosion noted in 2023, while not re-flagged in 2025, should still be checked thoroughly, particularly around wheel arches, exhaust mounts, and subframe areas, as surface rust can mask deeper structural compromise. The engine MIL failure in 2023 demands further investigation: if unresolved, this could signal unresolved emissions or sensor faults, which may affect long-term reliability. A pre-purchase diagnostic scan for pending or stored fault codes would be prudent. Finally, given the age, verify fluid levels—coolant, brake fluid, and oil—and check for leaks, as these are often overlooked in basic MOT compliance.