2005 Smart Roadster 80 Auto(rhd) 0.7L Petrol · NK05 AVU

The most recent MOT test on 2025-07-07 confirms the vehicle remains roadworthy at 101,916 miles, with no defects or advisories recorded. This marks a stable trend over the past three tests, despite two consecutive failures in mid-2023 and mid-2024—both of which were rectified before the subsequent passes. The absence of recurring advisories or defects in the latest cycle suggests the vehicle has undergone necessary repairs or maintenance between tests, though the repeated failures at similar mileages (94,779 and 99,256 miles) warrant scrutiny of the underlying issues. The 2024 failure date (19th June) being just one day before the pass (20th June) raises suspicion of rushed or incomplete repairs, a common pattern when vehicles are pushed through testing under pressure. The recorded mileage of 101,916 miles over 21 years equates to approximately 4,853 miles annually, a figure significantly lower than the average for a vehicle of this age. The gap between tests—ranging from 11 to 13 months—is consistent with the legal MOT cycle, but the low mileage suggests prolonged periods of inactivity or very light use. There are no obvious spikes in mileage between tests, which could indicate either careful ownership or extended storage. However, the low annual mileage also implies potential neglect of fluid changes, suspension preloading, or minor wear items that typically accumulate with regular use. Given the history, a buyer should prioritise an inspection of the braking system, particularly the rear calipers and pads, as the repeated failures in mid-2023 and mid-2024 may have been linked to binding or uneven wear. The suspension components—coil springs, bushes, and dampers—should be examined for excessive play or corrosion, especially given the vehicle’s age and the possibility of prolonged standing. Corrosion in wheel arches, sills, or subframe areas is another critical check, as it often goes unnoticed until it compromises structural integrity. Finally, the exhaust system and emissions should be inspected for leaks or catalytic converter efficiency, as these are common failure points in older vehicles that pass visually but may fail on test day. The absence of advisories in recent passes does not guarantee these areas are flawless, so a thorough mechanical assessment is essential.