2016 Smart (mcc) Fortwo 1.0L Petrol · GC65 LRF

The most recent DVSA examination on 22 May 2026 resulted in a PASS with no defects recorded, immediately following a Dangerous failure the day prior for both front tyres having a tread depth below the statutory 1.6mm minimum, alongside an advisory noting the offside rear tyre worn close to the legal limit and on its edge. The sequence of a same-day re-test after replacing the front tyres suggests prompt corrective action rather than an underlying neglect, and the clean pass that followed confirms no other mechanical concerns were identified at that point. Looking at the broader history, the vehicle has alternated between PASS and FAIL outcomes across consecutive visits in late 2024 and late 2023, with the failures being relatively minor in nature (a wiper clearing issue in 2024 and headlamp aim, washer fluid, and a windscreen chip in 2023). The maintenance trend appears broadly stable rather than deteriorating, although the recurrence of braking and suspension-related advisories in 2022 and 2021 respectively, combined with the front tyre issue, suggests some areas warrant close scrutiny during any physical inspection. At 68,788 recorded miles over a ten-year service life, this Smart Fortwo is averaging around 6,880 miles per year, which is broadly typical for a second car or urban runabout of this type, though slightly below the national average. There are no dramatic mileage jumps or extended standing periods evident between test entries, with recorded mileages progressing in a fairly consistent, modest manner. Such usage patterns are generally kinder to high-wearing components than high-mileage motoring, particularly the clutch, rear axle assembly, and timing chain typical of the Fortwo, but the Smart's rear-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout places specific stresses on the rear tyres and suspension components which can deteriorate unevenly under lower-mileage urban use where full suspension articulation is less frequent. Several recurring advisories in the MOT history merit a focused physical inspection before purchase. The advisory from December 2023 concerning an offside front lower suspension arm pin or bush worn but not resulting in excessive movement is a common Smart Fortwo concern, and any progression over the intervening period should be evaluated by rocking the front wheels laterally while stationary to detect play, and by listening for clonks or knocking over speed humps and uneven surfaces during a test drive. The TPMS advisory noted in 2023 should also be checked to confirm whether sensors have since been renewed or whether the warning remains active, as persistent illumination may indicate sensor battery depletion, a slow leak, or a fault requiring diagnostic investigation. The repeated advisories for front brake pads wearing thin in 2021 and 2022 suggest the front braking system has historically been worked relatively hard, and a thorough inspection of pad material remaining, disc condition including lip formation, and any evidence of binding calipers should be undertaken. The offside rear tyre noted as worn on its edge at the recent test indicates an alignment or suspension geometry concern that warrants checking the rear axle and tracking settings. Given that the Smart Fortwo is now approaching its eleventh year and has covered moderate mileage, several age-related checks are strongly advised regardless of the clean MOT pass. Tyre sidewalls should be examined closely for perishing, cracking, or ozone-related degradation, as older tyres can fail structurally even with adequate tread depth, and the age coding on the sidewall should be reviewed. The 12-volt auxiliary battery, commonly located in the service hatch, is likely approaching the end of its typical service life and should be load-tested or replaced preventatively to avoid no-start scenarios, particularly given the Smart's known sensitivity to voltage fluctuations. Brake discs, particularly the rear items, may exhibit surface corrosion from standing or light urban use, and caliper slide pins should be checked for seizing which can cause uneven pad wear and pulling under braking. Fluid conditions including brake fluid, which degrades hygroscopically and should be renewed every two years regardless of mileage, and coolant should be verified for age and condition, and the service book reviewed for evidence of regular cambelt or timing chain inspection intervals given the engine's known timing chain stretch characteristics. A thorough road test paying particular attention to smooth gear changes, absence of clutch slip, even pulling under braking, and freedom from clonks over rough surfaces will provide further confidence before purchase.