2016 Smart Forfour 1.0L Petrol · LM66 FBA

The most recent DVSA MOT test for this 2016 Smart Forfour was conducted on 30 May 2025, resulting in a pass with no defects or advisories recorded. Reviewing the broader history, the vehicle has demonstrated a consistently stable maintenance trend, passing its annual assessments on 4 June 2022, 2 June 2023, and 3 June 2024, all without recorded defects. The single failure on 2 June 2023 also shows no recorded defects, suggesting it was likely an administrative or paperwork-related issue rather than a mechanical concern, as the vehicle passed on the very same date. The absence of any advisories across the available test record is a positive indicator, suggesting the previous keeper has either addressed wear items proactively before testing or that the components in question remain in sound condition. With a recorded mileage of 24,143 miles across approximately ten years, this Forfour has covered an average of around 2,414 miles annually, which is notably low for a vehicle of its age. Such low annual usage typically indicates short urban trips or extended periods of standing between drives, both of which carry their own mechanical implications. While major wear items such as the clutch, drivetrain, and engine internals are likely to have substantial life remaining, prolonged standing can accelerate degradation of certain components. Brake discs and calipers may suffer from corrosion or seizing, rubber components such as suspension bushes and engine mountings can deteriorate from inactivity, and the exhaust system is susceptible to internal moisture retention leading to premature internal corrosion. The relatively modest mileage also means high-value consumables are unlikely to have been replaced recently, so verification of their service history is particularly important. Given the clean MOT record and the low-mileage profile, a prospective buyer should focus on age-related deterioration rather than wear-related defects. The tyres warrant particular scrutiny, as rubber compounds degrade with time regardless of tread depth; inspect the sidewalls carefully for perishing, cracking, or brittleness, and verify that the manufacturing date code on the sidewall indicates manufacture within the last few years. The 12-volt battery is another priority item, as a ten-year-old battery is well beyond its typical service life and is the most common cause of non-start issues in low-use vehicles. Request verification of the battery's age or fitment date, and consider budgeting for replacement if its provenance cannot be confirmed. On a test drive, listen for any suspension clonks or knocks over speed humps and uneven surfaces, which may indicate perished bushes, and pay close attention to the brakes for any signs of grabbing, juddering, or pulling, all of which can suggest seized calipers or corroded discs from standing. Finally, the time-based servicing items should be carefully verified regardless of the low mileage. Engine oil and filter, coolant, brake fluid, and transmission oil all degrade with calendar age and exposure to moisture, and a vehicle doing limited annual miles is often neglected in this regard. Insist on seeing a full service history with evidence that fluid changes have been performed at the correct time-based intervals rather than purely mileage-based ones. Examine the underside of the vehicle, or use a ramp or lift if available, to check for any signs of fluid leaks, perished suspension components, or corrosion beginning to take hold on structural or load-bearing areas. The exhaust system should be checked for rattles or blowing sounds, as internal corrosion from short journeys and condensation build-up is a common issue on low-mileage cars. A pre-purchase inspection by a Smart specialist or a general garage familiar with the marque would be a prudent investment given the vehicle's age, ensuring peace of mind before committing to the purchase.