2009 Smart Fortwo Coupe 1.0L Petrol · NJ59 KVR

The SMART Fortwo has shown a clear improvement in its roadworthiness trend, with the most recent MOT in October 2025—just nine months ago—passing without any defects at 49,415 miles. This marks a significant turnaround from the November 2023 failure, where all four brake pipes were flagged for severe corrosion, including the near-side front pipe being deemed excessively corroded. The subsequent tests in December 2023 and November 2024 confirmed gradual progress, with only the offside front and rear pipes remaining advisories by 2024. While the corrosion issue appears to have been addressed, the fact it persisted across multiple tests suggests it was either overlooked or inadequately rectified by previous owners. The absence of defects in the latest MOT indicates the problem has been resolved, but the underlying cause—likely prolonged exposure to moisture or poor maintenance—should still be investigated. The vehicle’s mileage of 49,415 over 17 years (approximately 2,907 miles annually) is unusually low for its age, implying either very light use or extended periods of inactivity. The recorded mileage drops between tests are consistent—around 1,800–2,000 miles per year—with no sudden spikes or gaps, which suggests the car was not frequently driven but also not left unused for prolonged stretches. The most recent MOT in October 2025 aligns with this pattern, showing only modest mileage increase since the previous test in November 2024. Such low annual mileage typically reduces wear on drivetrain and suspension components, but it can also mask deferred maintenance, particularly in areas like brake pipes where corrosion builds insidiously. A prospective buyer should prioritise a thorough inspection of the brake system, focusing on all four brake pipes for signs of residual corrosion, leaks, or improper repairs. The previous advisories suggest this was a systemic issue, and while the latest MOT shows compliance, hidden corrosion could still pose a risk. Additionally, the suspension should be checked for any signs of wear, particularly the bushes and coil springs, given the car’s age and the potential for long-term neglect. Structural integrity is less of a concern with this mileage, but the underbody should be examined for rust, especially around the brake lines and exhaust mounts, as moisture ingress was clearly a factor in the past. Finally, verify that the brake fluid and fluid levels have been recently serviced, as corrosion in the lines could indicate broader fluid contamination issues.