2009 Smart 1.0L Petrol · L3 BNM

The vehicle currently holds a valid MOT certificate from the February 2026 inspection at 56,373 miles, yet the maintenance trend reveals a pattern of recurring neglect regarding the braking system. While the car passed its most recent test, the presence of thinning front brake pads and a corroded nearside rear brake pipe indicates that critical safety components are reaching the end of their service life. The history shows a persistent struggle with binding rear brakes and brake pipe corrosion stretching back to 2023, suggesting that previous repairs have been superficial rather than curative. This Smart has covered approximately 56,373 miles over seventeen years, averaging roughly 3,316 miles per annum. This low-mileage profile is typical for a city car, though the consistent MOT advisories for binding brakes and corroded lines imply the vehicle has spent significant time stationary. Such extended periods of inactivity often lead to seized calipers and accelerated corrosion on hydraulic lines, which explains why these specific faults appear repeatedly in the annual test records despite the low total distance covered. Prospective buyers should prioritise a thorough inspection of the entire braking system, specifically looking for signs of seized rear calipers and verifying the integrity of the brake lines beyond the areas previously flagged. The recurring anti-roll bar bush wear noted in 2023 suggests the suspension components may also be suffering from age-related degradation despite the low mileage. You should check for any uneven tyre wear or knocking noises during a test drive, as these often point to neglected suspension bushings. Given the history of corrosion, a close examination of the underside and structural mounting points is essential to ensure the vehicle remains roadworthy.