2013 Smart Fortwo 1.0L Petrol · LG63 MLO

The most recent MOT on 22 September 2025 was a pass, but it was issued with three advisories covering reduced damping on the off‑side front shock absorber, a defective off‑side front daytime running lamp and a split bush on the central rear gearbox mounting. Earlier that same week, on 16 September 2025, the vehicle failed with major defects – a fractured near‑side front coil spring, a damaged near‑side MacPherson strut top mount and a non‑functioning near‑side front position lamp – together with the same advisories that re‑appeared on the later pass. Prior to that the 2024‑10‑04 MOT showed a pass with no defects but a separate failure on the same day for a weak washer system and a rear stop lamp fault. The 2023‑09‑11 pass only recorded the rear gearbox mounting advisory. Overall the pattern shows a period of significant front‑suspension failure in 2025 that was remedied sufficiently to achieve a pass, yet the lingering advisories indicate that some components remain marginal and the vehicle’s maintenance trajectory is improving but still requires attention. At 85 861 miles the car averages roughly 6 600 miles per year, which is typical for a 2013 model. The mileage does not suggest excessive wear, but the relatively low annual usage also points to periods where the car may have been stationary for extended times. Prolonged standing can accelerate rubber ageing in suspension bushings, tyre sidewalls and seals, and can allow brake discs to develop surface corrosion. The modest mileage therefore does not offset the need to examine age‑related deterioration, especially on components that have already shown structural weakness. Prospective buyers should focus on the front suspension assembly. Verify that the fractured coil spring has been replaced with an OEM‑spec unit and that the MacPherson strut top mount has been fitted with a new, correctly torqued mount. During a test drive listen for any clunk or knock when negotiating bumps, and feel for excessive dive or a vague looseness in the steering column, which would indicate lingering damping loss in the off‑side shock absorber. Inspect the off‑side front shock for oil leakage or a soft rebound, and ensure the rear gearbox mounting bush is solid with no play when the vehicle is rocked. All exterior lamps – front position lamp, daytime running lamp and rear stop lamp – must illuminate fully; a faulty lamp often signals wiring or grounding issues that could re‑appear under vibration. The washer system should be checked for proper spray pattern and adequate fluid delivery, as a weak washer can mask a cracked windscreen that may have been overlooked. Beyond the recorded defects, age‑related checks are essential. Examine the tyre tread depth and sidewall condition; look for cracking, dry rot or uneven wear that could stem from prolonged storage. Confirm that the 12‑volt battery is less than six years old or test its cranking amperage, as an ageing battery may struggle in colder weather. Inspect brake discs for surface rust, scoring or glazing and ensure the pads have sufficient thickness – a car that sits idle often develops disc corrosion that can cause shudder when braking. Finally, verify that the service book contains recent oil, filter and coolant changes, as fluid degradation over time can lead to premature wear of the engine and transmission. Addressing these points will give a clear picture of the SMART Fortwo’s current roadworthiness and the likely cost of bringing it to a fully reliable condition.