2009 Smart Fortwo Coupe 0.8L Diesel · LS09 XOO

The vehicle most recently passed its MOT on 16 March 2026, but the overall maintenance trend is currently worsening. While the car maintained a clean or minor record between 2021 and 2023, the most recent inspection has flagged a significant cluster of advisories across the braking, suspension, and tyre systems. This shift suggests that the vehicle has entered a phase of accelerated wear or has suffered from a period of neglected preventative maintenance. With a recorded mileage of 67,750 miles over seventeen years, this Smart Fortwo has been used sparingly, averaging approximately 3,985 miles per year. While low mileage generally reduces mechanical wear on the engine and drivetrain, it often introduces specific risks associated with vehicle stagnation. Low-use vehicles are more prone to the degradation of rubber components and the accumulation of surface corrosion on critical metal parts, as they are not exercised frequently enough to keep seals lubricated and moisture displaced. A prospective buyer should pay close attention to the braking system and suspension. The presence of pitted front brake discs and a corroded offside rear brake pipe indicates a need for imminent replacement to ensure long-term safety; during a test drive, listen for any grinding noises or feel for brake shudder. Furthermore, the recorded play in the offside front lower suspension arm ball joint, combined with previous advisories regarding anti-roll bar bushes, suggests the chassis is beginning to wear. Listen for clunks or knocks when navigating uneven road surfaces or during low-speed manoeuvring. Special attention must be given to the tyres, as the MOT records specifically highlight cracking and perishing on the rear set. This is a classic symptom of age-related degradation rather than tread wear, and these tyres should be replaced regardless of remaining tread depth to avoid structural failure. Additionally, given the low annual mileage, you should verify the service history to ensure oil and other fluids have been changed based on time intervals rather than mileage. Check for binding brake calipers and inspect the 12V battery health, as infrequent use often leads to premature battery failure and caliper seizure.