2017 Smart Fortwo 0.9L Petrol · PR03 YES

The vehicle most recently passed its MOT on 25 June 2025 with no defects or advisories recorded, and this outcome is consistent with the four preceding tests, all of which also returned clean passes dating back to 2022. The single failure recorded on the same date as the 2022 test pass is notable only insofar as it was immediately followed by a pass with no defects noted, suggesting the issue causing the failure was rectified at the same visit rather than representing a persistent or recurring mechanical concern. With no advisories logged across the most recent four consecutive examinations, the overall maintenance trend appears stable and well-managed, indicating that the braking system, suspension components, lighting, exhaust, and structural elements have all met the required standards at each successive test without any borderline wear items being flagged for future attention. With a recorded mileage of 38,078 miles over approximately nine years, this Smart Fortwo is accumulating only around 4,200 miles per year on average, which is substantially below typical annual usage for a vehicle of this age. While low mileage reduces wear on major drivetrain components such as the engine, clutch, and transmission, it carries its own mechanical implications particularly relevant to a small city car of this type. Extended periods of standing or very short journeys can promote corrosion on brake discs, leading to surface rust and potentially binding calipers due to infrequent operation of the piston seals. Coolant and brake fluid are also subject to calendar-based degradation irrespective of mileage, and a vehicle used predominantly for short trips may suffer from oil dilution or moisture accumulation in the lubricant. Any significant gaps between recorded mileages should be queried, and the service book stamps verified to confirm that time-based servicing intervals have been observed even when distance-based thresholds have not been reached. From a buyer inspection perspective, particular attention should be paid to the condition of the brake discs and pads, as standing corrosion on the disc friction surfaces is common on low-mileage vehicles and can sometimes be felt as brake shudder or judder during the first application from cold. The handbrake mechanism, given the car's rear-engine layout, should be tested on an incline to confirm it holds firmly without creeping, as cables and rear brake components can seize from infrequent use. A thorough visual inspection of all four tyres is essential, focusing not only on tread depth but on sidewall condition, looking for cracking, perishing, or any bulges which are common on aged tyres even when tread remains adequate; tyres fitted in 2017 or earlier would now be well beyond their recommended service life regardless of remaining tread. The 12V battery, located in this model under the floor or in the engine bay depending on variant, should be load-tested as a nine-year-old unit is at the upper end of its expected life and weak cells often present only as intermittent starting issues rather than complete failure. Additional checks appropriate to this vehicle's profile include a careful inspection underneath for any fluid leaks from the rear-mounted engine and transmission area, including oil seepage from the sump gasket or coolant weeping from hose joints which can deteriorate with age rather than mileage. The exhaust system should be examined for corrosion at the joints and mounting rubbers, particularly given the Smart's compact underbody which can expose the system to road salt and moisture. All fluid levels and their condition should be assessed, with particular note taken of the brake fluid which absorbs moisture over time and ideally should be replaced every two years regardless of mileage, and the coolant which similarly degrades and can lead to corrosion within the cooling system if neglected. A test drive should include careful listening for any clonks or knocks from the suspension over speed humps and uneven surfaces, as suspension bushes and coil springs can deteriorate from age and standing exposure, and the rear axle bearings should be checked for any humming or drone which progresses with speed. Finally, verifying a complete and consistent service history with documented timing belt or chain replacement intervals, as applicable to this engine, will be essential given the vehicle's age.